Iowa waives hours of service rules for heating fuel haulers due to freezing temps

Authorities in Iowa have waived hours of service (HOS) rules for heating fuel haulers due to high demand and low temperatures.

On January 10, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds issued a Proclamation of Disaster Emergency allowing for the relaxation of rules for certain fuel haulers amid severe winter weather conditions throughout the state.

The proclamation suspends the regulatory provisions of Iowa Code pertaining to HOS for crews and drivers delivering propane, diesel, natural gas, and other fuels used for residential, agricultural, and commercial heating purposes, Reynolds says.

Motor carriers operating under the waiver may not require or allow a fatigued or ill driver to operate. A driver who reports fatigue must be given 10 hours of consecutive rest before they are required to return to service.

The HOS waiver will remain in place until 11:59 p.m. on February 9, 2024, unless it is terminated sooner.

See the document below for more or click here to view the Proclamation.