HOS exemption extended again for drivers aiding Baltimore bridge cleanup

Another short-term extension has been issued for drivers helping to repair the bridge that collapsed in Baltimore earlier this year. 

The March 26th collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Maryland prompted an Hours of Service exemption by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration for drivers helping with cleanup and repair of the structure. The most recent extension of the exemption was put into place on July 3rd, and extends through July 15th. 

According to the FMCSA, the HOS extension applies to 

• Those providing direct assistance to the restoration and reopening efforts at the Port of Baltimore transporting equipment and supplies related to immediate repairs to the roadways and navigable waterways adjacent to the port
• Those providing transportation related to the removal of wreckage and debris from the waterways providing access to the port

The following carriers and drivers are granted up to two hours relief from the 11 hour drive time as part of the extension: 

• Those transporting loads rerouted from the Port of Baltimore to other East Coast ports due to the collapse
• Those hauling fuel to Anne Arundel, Baltimore City, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Cecil County, Frederick County, Harford County, Howard County, Queen Anne’s County, and Washington County