WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) has expressed support of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) announcement that it is planning to retain key provisions of the US HoS rules.

The agency announced its interim final rule yesterday, which keeps the 11-hour driving day and 34-hour restart provisions in place. The rules will remain in effect while FMCSA continues to gather data to support its argument that the two provisions in question do not pose a safety risk.

“We agree with the agency’s decision and appreciate its efforts toward ensuring that professional truckers aren’t hamstrung by regulations that limit their discretion and unnecessarily keep them on the road, tired or not,” said Rick Craig, director of regulatory affairs with OOIDA. “We are pleased with having the uncertainty removed, but continue to have concerns about other hours-of-service related matters. We look forward to working with the agency in the coming year through the rulemaking process.”