The waiver specifically applies to drivers transporting propane, natural gas, and heating oil in Delaware, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. These drivers can exceed normal maximum driving hours while responding to the regional emergency.

Why the Waiver Was Needed

Severe winter storms and bitterly cold temperatures have created widespread challenges for heating fuel delivery. In addition, a power outage at a major gas refinery and industrial complex in Marcus Hook, Pennsylvania, disrupted propane shipments across the region.

FMCSA stated that the declaration was issued “in response to winter storms and cold weather in the affected states and a power outage at a major gas refinery and industrial complex in Marcus Hook, Pennsylvania, severely disrupting the flow of propane and the current and anticipated effects on people and property, including the immediate risk to public health, safety, and welfare.”

Guidance for Drivers

Truckers directly assisting the emergency are granted relief from 49 Code of Federal Regulations 395.3, which governs maximum driving hours for property-carrying vehicles. This temporary HOS relief is valid through December 26, 2025, or until the emergency ends, whichever comes first.

Drivers taking advantage of this waiver should:

• Keep records verifying participation in the emergency response
• Continue following all safety protocols despite extended hours
• Coordinate with dispatch to manage shifts and prevent fatigue

The FMCSA emphasized that the relief applies only to drivers hauling the specified heating fuels and involved in direct emergency response. Standard regulations remain in effect for all other operations.

This waiver helps ensure critical heating fuels reach communities in need while providing drivers with clear, temporary flexibility to maintain deliveries during severe winter conditions.

Source: Commercial Carrier Journal

The post FMCSA Issues Emergency HOS Waivers as Winter Storms Hit Northeast appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The focus? Leadership, innovation, and the evolving role of women shaping the trucking industry’s future in Pennsylvania and beyond.

Elevating the Voices Driving Change

The WIM Symposium serves as a space for collaboration, recognition, and forward momentum. According to Nikki Thomas, ATA’s Vice President of Industry Affairs:

“The Women In Motion Symposium is a critical opportunity to recognize the essential role women play in every part of the trucking industry. By bringing together thought leaders, industry professionals, and advocates this year in Pittsburgh, we’re advancing meaningful dialogue and driving progress for the trucking industry. The WIM Symposium is a chance for us to elevate and celebrate the women who are driving our industry forward every day.”

Panel discussions, networking sessions, and guest speakers will highlight how female leadership is helping move policy, infrastructure, and business strategies forward across the Commonwealth.

A Spotlight on Public Service and Innovation

Stacy Garrity, Pennsylvania State Treasurer and U.S. Army Reserve Colonel, will headline the event with a discussion on financial transparency and public service impact. A proven advocate for efficiency and empowerment, Garrity’s leadership has helped return billions in unclaimed property to state residents, expand the college savings landscape, and strengthen programs like PA ABLE for individuals with disabilities.

Her talk is expected to touch on how financial responsibility and innovation intersect with economic resilience in the state.

Another voice shaping the conversation is Pennsylvania State Senator Judy Ward, who will speak on policy efforts influencing business, transportation, and healthcare.

“This annual conference is a unique opportunity to celebrate the progress women have made in trucking, while also looking ahead to how we can lead the industry and our communities forward,” WIM said in a press release.

Ward’s firsthand policy insight, particularly around infrastructure and community-level economic development, adds a critical layer to the agenda.

Built by Women, Shaping the Future

With a diverse range of attendees—from veteran drivers and logistics executives to state officials and fleet managers—the WIM Symposium offers a real-world look at how women are not just participating in trucking, but leading it.

Nikki Thomas also acknowledged the support behind the event:

“Thank you to Rebecca Oyler, PMTA president, CEO, for her dedication to WIM and for helping to put together such a dynamic agenda for this year’s event.”

As the industry continues to evolve, events like the Women In Motion Symposium remind the trucking world of the progress being made—and the leaders making it possible.

Image Source: Women In Trucking
Source: The Trucker

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