With constituents shivering in the deep freeze that has gripped much of the nation, several Midwestern governors suspended hours-of-service regulations for fuel truck drivers.
Demand for heating oil and other fuel increased to the extent that fuel truck drivers in Illinois, Minnesota, Missouri, and North and South Dakota have been allowed to work beyond their 60 hours-per-week limit.
The extensions have already expired in three states: South Dakota on Dec. 28; Minnesota on Jan. 3; and Missouri on Jan. 4.
Ron Breau of the Missouri Motor Carriers Association said an extension was also being sought by the propane industry in his state.
North Dakota’s hours-of-service suspension for fuel truck drivers will continue until Jan. 12.
Illinois, unlike the other states, did not put a time limit on the hours suspension, according to Illinois Transportation Association President Fred Serpe. He said he will ask that limits also be lifted for grocery haulers in his state because many stores are having trouble keeping shelves stocked in the wintry weather.
