TITLE: Procedures for Transportation Workplace Drug and Alcohol Testing Programs: Drug and Alcohol Management Information System Reporting; Final rule; RIN 2105-AD35; (68 FR 75455);

SUMMARY: Each of the Department of Transportation's drug and alcohol testing rules include requirements for select employers to submit drug and alcohol testing data to five Department of Transportation (DOT) agencies. In the past, these employers have been required to use agency-specific Management Information System (MIS) forms for this purpose, twenty-one different forms in all. The Department recently published a final rule revising these DOT agency MIS forms and transforming them into a single one-page form for use throughout all the DOT agencies. The requirement for use of the form is now in 49 CFR part 40. By this action, the DOT agencies endorse the use of this single form within their regulated industries,provide their regulated employers with guidance for submission of the form, and amend their rules accordingly. The DOT agencies are: Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA); Federal Aviation Administration (FAA); Federal Transit Administration (FTA); Federal Railroad Administration (FRA); and Research and Special Programs Administration (RSPA).

TITLE: Limitations on the Issuance of Commercial Driver's Licenses With a Hazardous Materials Endorsement; Interim final rule; delay of compliance date; request for comments; RIN 2126-AA70; FMCSA-2001-11117; (68 FR 63030);

SUMMARY: The FMCSA amends the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) prohibiting States from issuing, renewing, transferring or upgrading a commercial driver's license (CDL) with a hazardous materials (hazmat) endorsement unless the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has first conducted a background records check of the applicant and determined the applicant does not pose a security risk warranting denial of the hazardous materials endorsement. The compliance date provisions being revised require States to collect fingerprints from individuals applying for, renewing, upgrading or transferring a hazmat endorsement for a CDL beginning November 3, 2003. FMCSA and TSA are changing that date to April 1, 2004, and TSA may postpone that date, in individual cases, to not later than December 1, 2004.

TITLE: Hours of Service of Drivers; Final rule; technical amendments; RIN 2126-AA23; FMCSA-97-2350; (68 FR 56208);

SUMMARY: This rule makes technical amendments to the hours of service (HOS) regulations. These technical amendments are needed to correct inadvertent errors and omissions, and make minor editorial changes to improve clarity and consistency. The amendments do not make substantive changes. The corrections are minor and will not have a significant impact on a substantial number of small entities.

TITLE: Transportation of Household Goods; Consumer Protection Regulations; Delay of Compliance Date; Interim final rule; delay of compliance date; RIN 2126-AA32; FMCSA-97-2979; (68 FR 56208);

SUMMARY: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) delays the compliance date for the new part 375, Transportation of Household Goods; Consumer Protection Regulations, which was published as an interim final rule on June 11, 2003. That rule amends regulations governing the interstate transportation of household goods. On August 25, 2003, FMCSA received two petitions for reconsideration of the rule. On the same date, one of the petitioners, the American Moving and Storage Association, submitted a separate Petition for Stay of Effective Date. The reconsideration petitions address a variety of issues, both substantive and technical. The interim final rule took effect on September 9, 2003, with mandatory compliance to begin March 1, 2004. As the rule's effective date has passed, we are delaying the compliance date to gain time to consider fully the petitioners' concerns.

TITLE: Motor Carrier Safety Regulations; Miscellaneous Technical Amendments; Final Rule; (68 FR 56196);

SUMMARY: This rule makes technical amendments to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs). These technical amendments were needed to correct inadvertent errors and omissions, update mailing addresses, remove obsolete references, and make minor editorial changes o improve clarity and consistency. No substantive changes have been made to the FMCSRs. The corrections are minor and will not have a significant impact on a substantial number of small entities.

TITLE: Safety Requirements for Operators of Small Passenger-Carrying Commercial Motor Vehicles Used In Interstate Commerce; Final Rule; RIN 2126-AA52; FMCSA-2000-7017; (68 FR 47860, August 12, 2003);

SUMMARY: FMCSA amends the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) to require that motor carriers operating commercial motor vehicles (CMVs), designed or used to transport between 9 and 15 passengers (including the driver) in interstate commerce, must comply with the applicable safety regulations when they are directly compensated for such services and the vehicle is operated beyond a 75 air mile radius (86.3 statute miles or 138.9 kilometers) from the driver's normal work-reporting location. The agency has revised its proposed distance threshold to focus on the distance that the driver operates the vehicle, as opposed to the distance that the passengers are transported. These motor carriers, drivers, and vehicles are now, through this rule, subject to the same safety requirements as motor coach operators, except for the commercial driver's license, and controlled substances and alcohol testing regulations. This rule implements section 212 of the Motor Carrier Safety Improvement Act of 1999 (MCSIA)

TITLE: Transportation of Household Goods; Consumer Protection Regulations; Interim Final Rule; RIN 2126-AA32; FMCSA-97-2979; 68 FR 35064;

SUMMARY: FMCSA is amending its regulations governing the interstatetransportation of personal effects or property used, or to be used, in a private residence (household goods). Our regulations specify how motor carriers who transport household goods by motor vehicle in interstate commerce (movers) must assist their individual customers who ship household goods. We are updating the regulations to make them easier to understand and have made several changes designed to assist consumers. We seek additional public comment on the information collection requirements for this interim final rule. We will not enforce the information collection requirements of this interim final rule until we obtain approval for them from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB).

TITLE: Limitations on the Issuance of Commercial Driver's Licenses with a Hazardous Materials Endorsement; Interim Final Rule; RIN 2126-AA70; FMCSA-2001-11117; (68 FR 23844, May 5, 2003);

SUMMARY: The FMCSA amends the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) to prohibit States from issuing, renewing, transferring or upgrading a commercial driver's license (CDL) with a hazardous materials endorsement unless the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has first conducted a background records check of the applicant and determined that the applicant does not pose a security risk warranting denial of the hazardous materials endorsement. This interim final rule implements part of the requirements of section 1012 of the Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001 (USA PATRIOT Act) and certain provisions of the statutes dealing with explosives. The remaining requirements of section 1012 are implemented by a TSA interim final rule published elsewhere in today's issue of the Federal Register.

TITLE: Hours of Service of Drivers; Driver Rest and Sleep for Safe Operations; Final Rule; RIN 2126-AA23; The effective date is June 27, 2003, except §395.0 which is effective from June 27, 2003 - June 30, 2004; FMCSA-97-2350; (68 FR 22456, April 28, 2003);

SUMMARY: The FMCSA revises its hours-of-service (HOS) regulations to require motor carriers of property to provide drivers with better opportunities to obtain sleep, and thereby reduce the incidence of crashes attributed in whole or in part to drivers operating commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) while drowsy, tired, or fatigued. This action is necessary because the FMCSA estimates that between 196 and 585 fatalities occur each year on the Nation's roads because of drowsy, tired, or fatigued CMV drivers transporting property. The FMCSA estimates that this final rule when adhered to fully will save between 24 and 75 lives each year as a result of giving truck drivers an increased incremental amount of time to obtain rest and sleep.

TITLE: Civil Penalties; Final Rule; 68 FR 15381;

SUMMARY: This document specifies the civil penalties for violating the FMCSA regulations, as adjusted for inflation in accordance with the Federal Civil Penalties Inflation Adjustment Act of 1990, as amended by the Debt Collection mprovement Act of 1996. The inflation adjustments are reflected in this rulemaking. The Federal Civil Penalties Inflation Adjustment Act authorizes these amendments to the FMCSA penalty regulations.

TITLE: General Requirements; Inspection, Repair, and Maintenance; Intermodal Container Chassis and Trailers; Withdrawal of advance notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPRM); RIN 2126-AA38; FMCSA-98-3656; (68 FR 75478);

SUMMARY: FMCSA withdraws its February 17, 1999, ANPRM relating to responsibilities for the inspection, repair, and maintenance of intermodal container chassis and trailers. After reviewing the public comments received in response to the ANPRM, transcripts from three listening sessions held in November 1999, comments submitted in response to the agency's November 29, 2002, notice of intent to consider a negotiated rulemaking, and the neutral convenor's final report, the agency has determined that it would be inappropriate to move forward with a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking at this time. FMCSA believes there is insufficient data concerning the relationship between the mechanical condition of intermodal container chassis and trailers, and commercial motor vehicle accidents to quantify the extent to which the condition of container chassis or trailers contributed, in whole or in part, to accidents. Furthermore, the neutral convenor hired by the agency to interview individuals or organizations that might represent interests that are most likely to be substantially affected by a rulemaking concerning this subject, has concluded that a negotiated rulemaking process seeking to produce a set of consensus recommendations to FMCSA should not be undertaken. Therefore, no further consideration will be given to conducting a negotiated rulemaking.

TITLE: Parts and Accessories Necessary for Safe Operation; Fuel Systems; Notice of proposed rulemaking; request for comments; RIN 2126-AA80; FMCSA-02-13589; (68 FR 64072);

SUMMARY: The FMCSA proposes to revise the requirements concerning fuel tank fill rates for gasoline- and methanol-fueled light-duty vehicles contained in Subpart E of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs). The purpose of the proposal is to: (1) Remove a conflict between the fuel tank fill rate requirements of the FMCSRs and those of the Environmental Protection Agency for gasoline and methanol-fueled vehicles up to 14,000 pounds (lbs) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR); and (2) to make permanent the terms of the exemptions previously granted to motor carriers operating certain gasoline-fueled commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) manufactured by Ford Motor Company (Ford) and by General Motors (GM). The FMCSA also proposes to incorporate into the FMCSRs previously issued regulatory guidance concerning the applicability of the agency's fuel tank rules to vehicles subject to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) fuel system integrity standard at the time of manufacture.

TITLE: Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations: Hazardous Materials Safety Permits; Correction; Proposed Rule; correction; RIN 2126-AA07; FMCSA-97-2180; (68 FR 53535);

SUMMARY: This document corrects the CFR text to a proposed rule published in the Federal Register on August 19, 2003, regarding Hazardous Materials Safety Permits. The CFR text includes multiple incorrect cross-references to Sec. 385.403(a) and a single incorrect cross-reference to Sec. 385.405(e). This action corrects these errors.

TITLE: Minimum Training Requirements for Longer Combination Vehicle (LCV) Operators and LCV Driver-Instructor Requirements; Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM); request for comments; RIN 2126-AA08; FMCSA-1997-2176; (68 FR 47890, August 12, 2003);

SUMMARY: The FMCSA is proposing standards for minimum training requirements for the operators of longer combination vehicles (LCVs) and requirements for the instructors who train these operators. This action is in response to section 4007 of the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991, which directed that training for the operators of LCVs include certification of an operator's proficiency by an instructor who has met the requirements established by the Secretary. The purpose of this proposal is to enhance the safety of commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operations on our nation's highways.

TITLE: Hazardous Materials Safety Permits; Supplemental Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (SNPRM); RIN 2126-AA07; Comments are due by October 14, 2003; FMCSA-97-2199; (68 FR 49737);

SUMMARY: The FMCSA proposes to establish a safety permit program for motor carriers that transport any of the following hazardous materials in interstate or intrastate commerce: a highway route-controlled quantity of a Class 7 (radioactive) material; more than 25 kg (55 pounds) of a Division 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3 (explosive) material; more than one liter (1.08 quarts) per package of a material in Division 2.3, Packing Group I, Hazard Zone A, or Division 6.1, Packing Group I, Hazard Zone A; and a shipment of compressed or refrigerated liquid methane or natural gas in a packaging having a capacity equal to or greater than 13,248 L (3,500 gallons) for liquids or gases. As part of this safety permit program, FMCSA proposes to consider additional ``acute'' and ``critical'' regulations relevant to its determination of a carrier's safety fitness rating and, accordingly, the issuance of a safety permit

TITLE: Minimum Training Requirements for Entry-Level Commercial Motor Vehicle Operators; Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM); request for comments; RIN 2126-AA09; Comments are due by October 14, 2003; FMCSA-97-2199; (68 FR 48863);

SUMMARY: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is proposing standards for mandatory training requirements for entry-level operators of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) who are required to hold or obtain a commercial driver's license (CDL). This action responds to a study mandated by the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 that found the training of entry-level drivers in the heavy truck, motorcoach, and school bus industries was not adequate. The purpose of this proposal is to enhance the safety of CMV operations on our nation's highways.

TITLE: Safety Performance History of New Drivers; Supplemental Notice of Proposed Rulemaking; RIN 2126-AA17; Comments are due by September 2, 2003; FMCSA-97-2277; (68 FR 42339);

SUMMARY: In March 1996,the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's predecessor, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), published a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) specifying what minimum safety performance history information new or prospective employers would be required to seek concerning commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers and from where that information should be obtained. This SNPRM: Addresses issues raised in response to the NPRM, including small business burden, and incorporates new requirements of limitation on liability and driver privacy protections imposed by the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA-21).

TITLE: Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Vision; Notice of applications for exemption from the vision standard;request for comments; FMCSA-2003-16564; 68 FR 74699;

SUMMARY: This notice publishes the FMCSA's receipt of applications from 29 individuals for an exemption from the vision requirement in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations. If granted, the exemptions will enable these individuals to qualify as drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in interstate commerce without meeting the vision standard prescribed in 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10).

TITLE: Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Vision; Notice of final disposition; FMCSA-2003-16241; 68 FR 75715;

SUMMARY: The FMCSA announces its decision to exempt 24 individuals from the vision requirement in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs). The exemptions will enable these individuals to qualify as drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in interstate commerce without meeting the vision standard prescribed in 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10).

TITLE: Safety Auditor Certification; Notice of Statutory Compliance Date; Notice of statutory compliance date; FMCSA-2003-15642; 68 FR 74287;

SUMMARY: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) gives notice that after December 31, 2003, all safety inspections, audits, and compliance reviews will be conducted by FMCSA or State employees certified under the Certification of Safety Auditors, Safety Investigators, and Safety Inspectors interim final rule (67 FR 12776, Mar. 19, 2002; 67 FR 41196, Jun. 17, 2002) (commonly referred to as the Certification rule) or qualified under the grandfather provisions of 49 U.S.C. 31148(b). The Certification rule was one of three interim final rules set aside by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit on January 16, 2003, on the grounds that FMCSA failed to comply with statutory environmental impact analysis requirements in developing these regulations. On July 28, 2003, FMCSA notified the public (68 FR 44378) that, as authorized by Sec. 211 of the Motor Carrier Safety Improvement Act of 1999 (MCSIA), the Secretary of Transportation (Secretary) had extended by 12 months the agency's December 31, 2002, statutory deadline for compliance with the safety certification requirements. The extension of the statutory compliance deadline provided FMCSA the necessary time to comply with the court's mandate by preparing an Environmental Assessment (EA) for the Certification rule. The EA concluded that implementation of the Certification rule would have no adverse environmental consequences and, in fact, would likely have a positive, if minimal, impact on the affected environment. On October 2, 2003, the agency issued a notice announcing the EA's availability in the docket and requesting public comment (68 FR 56863). The agency received no comments on the EA. Following the close of the public comment period, FMCSA prepared a Finding of No Significant Impact document for the Certification rule. The Finding of No Significant Impact is attached to the EA in the docket. Compliance with the statutory certification requirement by FMCSA and its State partners will assure the agency's continued fulfillment of its statutory responsibilities to reduce crashes, injuries, and fatalities involving large trucks and buses.

TITLE: Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Vision; Notice of renewal of exemption; request for comments; FMCSA-99-5748; 68 FR 69432;

SUMMARY: This notice publishes the FMCSA decision to renew the exemptions from the vision requirement in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations for 12 individuals. The FMCSA has statutory authority to exempt individuals from vision standards if the exemptions granted will not compromise safety. The agency has concluded that granting these exemptions will provide a level of safety that will be equivalent to, or greater than, the level of safety maintained without the exemptions for these commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers.

TITLE: Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Vision; Notice of renewal of exemption; request for comments; FMCSA-2001-10578; 68 FR 69434;

SUMMARY: This notice publishes the FMCSA decision to renew the exemptions from the vision requirement in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations for 27 individuals. The FMCSA has statutory authority to exempt individuals from vision standards if the exemptions granted will not compromise safety. The agency has concluded that granting these exemptions will provide a level of safety that will be quivalent to, or greater than, the level of safety maintained without the exemptions for these commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers.

TITLE: Exemption To Allow Werner Enterprises, Inc. To Use Global Positioning System (GPS) Technology To Monitor and Record Drivers' Hours of Service; Notice of intent to grant exemption; request for comments; FMCSA-2003-15818; 68 FR 69117;

SUMMARY: FMCSA proposes to grant an exemption to Werner Enterprises, Inc. (Werner) from the requirement that drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) operating in interstate commerce prepare handwritten records of duty status (RODS). Werner would instead document its drivers' hours of service through the use of GPS technology and complementary computer software programs. Werner has used GPS technology manufactured by Qualcomm, Inc. and computer software programs to manage and record its drivers' duty status since June 10, 1998, when it entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the agency. The MOU was based on the agency's April 6, 1998, notice of interpretation concerning the use of such technology. Werner and FMCSA revised the MOU in March 2002. The agency proposes that the terms and conditions for the exemption be the same as those contained in the revised MOU, with a few exceptions based on recent discussions between FMCSA and Werner. FMCSA has monitored closely Werner's use of the GPS technology since June 1998. Based on this experience, the agency believes that the terms and conditions of the exemption would achieve a level of safety equivalent to, or greater than, that provided by complying with the current RODS requirements.

TITLE: Notice of Request for Clearance of a New Information Collection: Share The Road Safely Campaign Assessment; Notice and request for comments; FMCSA-2003-16324; 68 FR 68446;

SUMMARY: In accordance with the requirement in section 3506(c)(2)(A) of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, this notice announces the intention of the FMCSA to request the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to approve a new information collection related to one of its national motor carrier safety initiatives, titled ``Share The Road Safely (STRS)'' campaign. The STRS campaign is a public information, education and outreach program designed to improve the motoring public's awareness of the operating limitations of large commercial motor vehicles. The program's goal is to lower the number of crashes, injuries, and fatalities by targeting high-risk drivers with this important safety message. It also seeks to increase motorists' awareness of the STRS campaign and its highway safety messages. When appropriate, campaign efforts will combine local law enforcement activities for car-truck proximity violations. The agency plans to collect information from a sample of the Nation's non-commercial licensed drivers to determine the motoring public's recognition and awareness of FMCSA's STRS campaign.

TITLE: Notice of Request for Renewal of a Currently Approved Information; Notice and request for comments; FMCSA-2003-16405; 68 FR 67734;

SUMMARY: The FMCSA is seeking public comments about our intent to request the Office of Management and Budget's (OMB) approval to renew the currently approved information collection identified as Request for Revocation of Authority Granted. This information collection notifies the FMCSA of a voluntary request by a motor carrier, freight forwarder, or property broker to amend or revoke its registration of authority granted. The Paperwork Reduction Act requires the publication of this notice.

TITLE: Notice of Request To Renew Approval of an Information Collection: OMB Control No. 2126-0011 (Commercial Driver Licensing and Test Standards); Notice and request for comments; FMCSA-2003-16471; 68 FR 67733;

SUMMARY: This notice announces that FMCSA intends to submit a request to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for renewed approval of the information collection described below. This information collection is needed to ensure that motor carriers and the States are complying with notification requirements for obtaining information about licensing, violations, convictions, and disqualifications within certain time periods as required by the Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1986 (CMVSA), as amended. This notice is required by the Paperwork Reduction Act.

TITLE: Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Vision; Notice of renewal of exemption; request for comments; FMCSA-2000-8398; 68 FR 64944;

SUMMARY: This notice publishes the FMCSA decision to renew the exemptions from the vision requirement in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations for 22 individuals. The FMCSA has statutory authority to exempt individuals from vision standards if the exemptions granted will not compromise safety. The agency has concluded that granting these exemptions will provide a level of safety that will be equivalent to, or greater than, the level of safety maintained without the exemptions for these commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers.

TITLE: Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Vision; Notice of denials; 68 FR 62494;

SUMMARY: The FMCSA announces that 77 individuals were denied exemptions from the Federal vision standards applicable to interstate truck drivers and the reasons for the denials. The FMCSA has statutory authority to exempt individuals from vision standards if the exemptions granted will not compromise safety. The agency has concluded that granting these exemptions does not provide a level of safety that will equal or exceed the level of safety maintained without the exemptions for these commercial drivers.

TITLE: Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Vision; Notice of final disposition; FMCSA-2003-15892; 68 FR 61860;

SUMMARY: The FMCSA announces its decision to exempt 29 individuals from the vision requirement in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs). The exemptions will enable these individuals to qualify as drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in interstate commerce without meeting the vision standard prescribed in 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10).

TITLE: Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Vision; Notice of applications for exemption from the vision standard; request for comments; FMCSA-2003-16241; 68 FR 61857;

SUMMARY: This notice publishes the FMCSA's receipt of applications from 24 individuals for an exemption from the vision requirement in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations. If granted, the exemptions will enable these individuals to qualify as drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in interstate commerce without meeting the vision standard prescribed in 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10).

TITLE: Safety Requirements for Operators of Small Passenger-Carrying Commercial Motor Vehicles Used in Interstate Commerce; Correction; FMCSA-2000-7017; 68 FR 61246;

SUMMARY: In rule document 03-20369 beginning on page 47860 in the issue of Tuesday, August 12, 2003, make the following correction: On page 27860, in the second column, under the DATES heading, in the fifth line, November 10, 2003 should read December 10, 2003.

TITLE: Commercial Driver's License Standards; Isuzu Motors America, Inc. Exemption Application; Correction; Notice; correction; FMCSA-2003-14652; 68 FR 60442;

SUMMARY: FMCSA published a document in the Federal Register of October 16, 2003, 68 FR 59677, which contained two incorrect dates. This notice is to notify the public of these errors and make corrections to the October 16, 2003 notice. The corrections change the exemption effective date to October 16, 2003, and the exemption expiration date to October 17, 2005. The exemption requirements remain unchanged.

TITLE: Commercial Driver's License Standards; Isuzu Motors America, Inc. Exemption Application; Notice of final disposition; granting of application for exemption; FMCSA-2003-14652; 68 FR 59677;

SUMMARY: The FMCSA announces its decision to grant the Isuzu Motors America, Inc. request for an exemption from the Federal commercial driver's license (CDL) requirement in 49 CFR 383.23. The exemption is for 31 Japanese engineers and technicians who will be test-driving commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) for Isuzu. All of the individuals hold a valid Japanese commercial driver's license and are specially trained in driving CMVs in Japan. They normally work at Isuzu Motors Limited in Japan where their duties involve developing, designing, and/or testing engines for CMVs that will be manufactured, assembled, sold or primarily used in the United States. The FMCSA believes that enforcement of the terms and conditions of the exemption would ensure that the level of safety for the drivers is equivalent to or greater than the level of safety that would be achieved by complying with the Federal regulations. The exemption would preempt inconsistent State requirements applicable to interstate commerce.

TITLE: Notice of Scoping Meetings and Soliciting Scoping Comments for Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement and General Conformity Evaluation for Proposal To Promulgate North American Free Trade Agreement Regulations; Announcement of public scoping meetings; FMCSA-98-3298; 68 FR 58162;

SUMMARY: The agency is in the early stages of preparing an environmental analysis, including a Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement (PEIS) and a General Conformity Evaluation (GCE), assessing the potential environmental impacts'such as impact on air quality'on its proposal to promulgate regulations allowing trucks and buses domiciled in Mexico to operate throughout the United States under conditions ensuring public safety. The FMCSA is holding several public meetings on environmental issues and concerns to be considered in the PEIS and GCE. The purpose of these meetings is to obtain the public's input on the potential range or scope of environmental impacts and alternatives that should be considered in the PEIS and GCE. FMCSA invites the public to submit comments on the environmental issues and topics that they believe are appropriate for inclusion in these analyses.

TITLE: Availability of an Environmental Assessment for the Certification of Safety Auditors, Safety Investigators, and Safety Inspectors Interim Final Rule; Notice of availability; request for comments; FMCSA-2001-11060; 68 FR 56863;

SUMMARY: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) announces the availability of the Environmental Assessment for the Certification of Safety Auditors, Safety Investigators, and Safety Inspectors interim final rule (67 FR 12776, Mar. 19, 2002) (commonly referred to as the Certification rule). This announcement is pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA), as amended; the Council on Environmental Quality Regulations implementing NEPA (40 CFR parts 1500-1508); and U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Order 5610.1C, Procedures for Considering Environmental Impacts, dated September 18, 1979, as amended July 13, 1982, and July 30, 1985. The Certification rule was one of three interim final rules set aside by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit on January 16, 2003. The court concluded that FMCSA failed to comply with statutory environmental impact analysis requirements in developing these rules. Accordingly, FMCSA has analyzed the potential environmental impacts from implementation of the Certification rule. The agency has concluded that implementing the rule's requirements would have no adverse environmental consequences and in fact would be likely to have a positive, if minimal, impact on the affected environment.

TITLE: Notice of Request for Clearance of a New Information Collection: Truck Driver Fatigue Management Survey; Notice; FMCSA-15025; 68 FR 56663;

SUMMARY: The FMCSA announces that the Information Collection Request (ICR) described in this notice is being sent to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review and approval pursuant to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. On May 30, 2003, the FMCSA published a Notice of Request for Clearance of a New Information Collection: Truck Driver Fatigue Management Survey in the Federal Register. Comments on the proposed information collection burden were solicited. No comments regarding the ICR were received.

TITLE: Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Vision; Notice of renewal of exemption; request for comments; FMCSA-98-4334; 68 FR 54775;

SUMMARY: This notice publishes the FMCSA decision to renew the exemptions from the vision requirement in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations for 26 individuals. The FMCSA has statutory authority to exempt individuals from vision standards if the exemptions granted will not compromise safety. The agency has concluded that granting these exemptions will provide a level of safety that will be equivalent to, or greater than, the level of safety maintained without the exemptions for these commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers.

TITLE: National Environmental Policy Act Implementing Procedures; Notice of proposed order; request for comments; FMCSA-2002-14095; 68 FR 55713;

SUMMARY: The FMCSA is publishing for public comment its draft Order on agency procedures for implementing the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA). Now that the FMCSA is a separate agency within the Department of Transportation (Department or DOT), it has developed its own draft procedures for complying with NEPA, other pertinent environmental regulations, Executive Orders, statutes, and laws to ensure that it actively incorporates environmental considerations into informed decisionmaking.

TITLE: Hours of Service of Drivers: Exemption Application From Hulcher Services, Inc; Denial of application for exemption; FMCSA-1999-5880; 68 FR 53630;

SUMMARY: The FMCSA denies the petition of Hulcher Services, Inc.(Hulcher) for an exemption from the maximum driving time limitations inthe Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs). Hulcher arguesthat an exemption would ensure its ability to respond to railroad accidents and help restore service. The FMCSA disagrees. We deny the exemption because Hulcher did not explain how granting the exemption would achieve a level of safety that is equivalent to, or greater than, the level of safety achieved by complying with FMCSR driving time limitations.

TITLE: Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Vision; Notice of applications for exemption from the vision standard; request for comments; FMCSA-2003-15892; 68 FR 52811;

SUMMARY: This notice publishes the FMCSA's receipt of applications from 30 individuals for an exemption from the vision requirement in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations. If granted, the exemptions will enable these individuals to qualify as drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in interstate commerce without meeting the vision standard prescribed in 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10).

TITLE: Notice of Request for Renewal of a Currently Approved Information Collection: Financial Responsibility for Motor Carriers of Passengers and Motor Carriers of Property; Notice; FMCSA-2003-15024; 68 FR 52814;

SUMMARY: The FMCSA announces that the Information Collection Request (ICR) described in this notice is being sent to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review and approval pursuant to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. On May 30, 2003, the FMCSA published a Notice of Request for Renewal of a Currently Approved Information Collection: Financial Responsibility for Motor Carriers of Passengers and Motor Carriers of Property in the Federal Register. Comments on the proposed information collection burden were solicited. No comments regarding the ICR were received.

TITLE: Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Diabetes; Notice of final disposition; FMCSA-2001-9800; 68 FR 52441;

SUMMARY: This notice announces FMCSA's decision to issue exemptions to certain insulin-using diabetic drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) from the diabetes mellitus prohibitions contained in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs). The FMCSA will grant exemptions only to those applicants who meet the specific conditions and comply with all the requirements of the exemption. The FMCSA will issue exemptions for not more than a period of two years. Upon expiration, those holding exemptions may apply to FMCSA for a renewal under procedures in effect at that time. The FMCSA is leaving the docket open so that interested persons can provide comments on any changes to the specific conditions needed to qualify for the exemption program.

TITLE: Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement and General Conformity Evaluation for Proposed North American Free Trade Agreement Regulations; Notice of intent; FMCSA-98-3298; 68 FR 51322;

SUMMARY: The FMCSA is issuing this notice to advise the public a Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement (PEIS) will be prepared pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) and a General Conformity Evaluation will be made pursuant to the Clean Air Act (CAA) before promulgation of the FMCSA's proposed regulations regarding (1) the application process for Mexico-domiciled motor carriers desiring to operate beyond the U.S.-Mexico border commercial zones and (2) the safety monitoring system applicable to all Mexico-domiciled motor carriers.

TITLE: Safety Auditor Certification; Extension of Statutory Compliance Date; Notice of extension of statutory compliance date; FMCSA-2003-15642; 68 FR 44378;

SUMMARY: The FMCSA is required by law to ensure that all safety audits or compliance reviews of motor carriers conducted after December 31, 2002 be conducted by duly certified personnel. The Secretary of Transportation is authorized to extend this deadline until December 31, 2003 by notifying Congress that implementation of this requirement cannot be achieved by the initial deadline, and stating the reasons. By this document the FMCSA is notifying the public that on July 17, 2003 the Secretary of Transportation gave notice to Congress that he is extending the deadline to December 31, 2003. The extension is necessary because of a recent Federal court decision that set aside the FMCSA rule establishing procedures for certifying personnel to conduct safety reviews.

TITLE: English Language Requirement; Qualification of Drivers; Withdrawal of ANPRM; FMCSA-1997-2759; 68 FR 43889;

SUMMARY: The FMCSA withdraws its advance notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPRM) requesting comments on potential changes to a provision in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) involving the English language. That provision requires that drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) operating in interstate commerce be able to read and speak the English language sufficiently to converse with the general public, understand highway traffic signs and signals, respond to official inquiries, and make entries on reports and records. After analysis and review of the comments, FMCSA has concluded that at this time there is no quantifiable data on which to propose modifying the regulation to require a more stringent or definitive standard, or to require State motor vehicle agencies to administer a specific test for English proficiency.

TITLE: Withdrawal of Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking; Out-of-Service Criteria; Withdrawal of ANPRM; FMCSA-98-3414; 68 FR 43893;

SUMMARY: The FMCSA withdraws the ANPRM published in the Federal Register of July 20, 1998, concerning the use of the North American Uniform Out-of-Service Criteria (the Criteria). FMCSA has determined that including the Criteria in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs), either through codification of each criterion or through incorporation-by-reference of a specific edition of the Criteria, would not provide any discernible safety benefits to the public or resolve issues raised by parties seeking such action. Adoption of the Criteria into the FMCSRs would only have the effect of regulating FMCSA enforcement actions during roadside inspections. However, it would not necessarily preclude the States from continuing to use the uniform international tolerances. Accordingly, this rulemaking proceeding has been terminated.

TITLE: Parts and Accessories Necessary for Safe Operation; Sleeper Berths on Motorcoaches; Notice of Withdrawal; FMCSA-1997-2213; 68 FR 43891;

SUMMARY: The FMCSA withdraws its April 3, 1996, Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) to rescind restrictions on the locations at which television receivers may be positioned within commercial motor vehicles (CMVs). After reviewing the public comments received in response to the NPRM, the agency no longer considers the restrictions to be obsolete and redundant. The agency believes that it is necessary to retain the rule to prohibit unsafe driver behavior, and that doing so is not likely to discourage the use of [[Page 43892]] Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS)-related technologies such as collision-avoidance and traveler information systems which could be used to improve safety and efficiency, or other communications systems that employ display screens.

TITLE: Parts and Accessories Necessary for Safe Operation: Television Receivers and DataDisplay Units; Notice of Withdrawal; FMCSA-1997-2278; 68 FR 43891;

SUMMARY: FMCSA withdraws its April 3, 1996 NPRM to rescind restrictionson the locations at which television receivers may be positioned within CMVs. Withdrawn as of July 24, 2003.

TITLE: Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Vision; the deadline for submitting comments is July 23, 2003.; FMCSA-2003-15268; ( 68 FR 37197) June 23, 2003;

SUMMARY: This notice publishes the FMCSA's receipt of applications from36 individuals for an exemption from the vision requirement in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations. If granted, the exemptions will enable these individuals to qualify as drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in interstate commerce without meeting the vision standard prescribed in 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10).

TITLE: Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Vision; effective 06/26/2003; the deadline for submitting comments is July 14, 2003.; FMCSA-98-4334, FMCSA-2000-7363, FMCSA-8001-8398, FMCSA-2001-9285; 68 FR 35772;

SUMMARY: This notice publishes the FMCSA decision to renew theexemptions from the vision requirement in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations for 35 individuals. The FMCSA has statutory authority to exempt individuals from vision standards if the exemptions granted will not compromise safety. The agency has concluded that granting these exemptions will provide a level of safety that will equal or exceed the level of safety maintained without the exemptions for these commercial motor vehicle drivers.

TITLE: Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Vision; Notice of Denials; 68 FR 35050;

SUMMARY: The FMCSA announces that 41 individuals were denied exemptionsfrom the Federal vision standards applicable to interstate truck drivers and the reasons for the denials. The FMCSA has statutory authority to exempt individuals from vision standards if the exemptions granted will not compromise safety. The agency has concluded that granting these exemptions does not provide a level of safety that will equal or exceed the level of safety maintained without the exemptions for these commercial drivers.

TITLE: Younger Commercial Driver Pilot Training Program; Notice of denial of petition to initiate a pilot program; FMCSA-2000-8410; 68 FR 34467;

SUMMARY: The FMCSA denies the petition of the Truckload CarriersAssociation (TCA) asking the agency to conduct a pilot program that would enable certain drivers between the ages of 18 and 21 (younger drivers) to operate commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in interstate commerce. The pilot program proposed by TCA would screen candidate drivers, train them extensively at approved truck-driving schools, and provide an apprenticeship with an approved motor carrier until age 21. The FMCSA is denying the petition because the agency does not have sufficient information at this time to make a determination that the safety measures in the pilot program are designed to achieve a level of safety equivalent to, or greater than, the level of safety provided by complying with the minimum 21-year age requirement to operate a CMV.

TITLE: Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Vision; Notice of final disposition; effective 6/4/2003.; FMCSA-2003-14504; 68 FR 33570;

SUMMARY: The FMCSA announces its decision to exempt 29 individuals fromthe vision requirement in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs). The exemptions will enable these individuals to qualify as drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in interstate commerce without meeting the vision standard prescribed in 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10).

TITLE: Notice of Request for Clearance of a New Information Collection:Truck Driver Fatigue Management Survey; Request for comments; the deadline for submitting comments is July 29, 2003; FMCSA-2003-15024; (68 FR 32571);

SUMMARY: In accordance with the requirements in section 3506(c)(2)(A)of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, this notice announces the intention of the FMCSA to request the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to approve a new information collection to query unionized truck drivers who operate commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) on overnight runs. The agency intends to collect information from these truck drivers on such issues as driver physical condition, amount of sleep, use of naps, fatigue coping strategies, hours on duty, hours driving, and nature of job. In addition, a sample of drivers will wear actigraphy watches to monitor and obtain objective measures of their sleep/wake time.

TITLE: Notice of Request for Renewal of a Currently Approved Information Collection: Financial Responsibility for Motor Carriers of Passengers and Motor Carriers of Property; Request for comments; the deadline for submitting comments is July 29, 2003; FMCSA-2003-15025; (68 FR 32570);

SUMMARY: In accordance with section 3506(c)(2)(A) of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (PRA), this notice announces the agency's intention to request the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to renew its clearance of a currently approved information collection identified below under the heading ``Supplementary Information.'' This information collection renewal assures that motor carriers of property and passengers maintain an appropriate level of financial responsibility for operating on public highways.

TITLE: Exemptions From Certain Controlled Substances and Alcohol Testing Regulations; Mayflower Transit LLC dba Aero Mayflower Transit and United Van Lines LLC Requesting Exemptions; the comments must be received on or before June 16, 2003.; FMCSA-2003-14911;

SUMMARY: This notice announces the FMCSA's receipt of an application from Mayflower Transit LLC and United Van Lines LLC for exemptions from certain Federal controlled substance and alcohol testing requirements. The applicants request exemptions that would allow them to impose controlled substance and alcohol testing on their non-CDL (commercial driver's license) drivers using the same standards, forms and requirements, and in the same random testing pool, as their CDL drivers.

TITLE: Oregon Department of Transportation Application for Exemptions for Farmers.; Notice Of Secretarial Decision; FMCSA-2002-13295; 68 FR 23794, May 5, 2003;

SUMMARY: The Secretary of Transportation (Secretary) is denying the Oregon Department of Transportation's (ODOT) application for exemptions from all the requirements of 49 CFR part 393, concerning parts and accessories necessary for the safe operation of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs), and 49 CFR part 396, concerning the inspection, repair and maintenance of CMVs, on behalf of motor carriers certified by and registered with ODOT as farmers. ODOT and the vast majority of persons responding to the December 26, 2002, notice published by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) believe the exemptions would have little if any impact on highway safety. The Department of Transportation (DOT) finds that granting the exemptions would not achieve a level of safety equivalent to, or greater than, the level of safety that would be achieved by complying with the Federal regulations. Neither ODOT nor the persons submitting comments in support of the exemptions application presented specific alternatives to the Federal requirements concerning safety equipment on CMVs, and the inspection, repair and maintenance of such vehicles, which the agency could consider likely to achieve the requisite level of safety.

TITLE: Commercial Driver's License Standards; Isuzu Motors America, Inc.'s Exemption Application; Notice; request for comments; comments must be submitted by May 30, 2003.; FMCSA-2003-14652;

SUMMARY: The FMCSA announces receipt of an application from Isuzu Motors America, Inc. (Isuzu), requesting an exemption from the agency's requirement of 49 CFR 383.23 for drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) to hold a commercial driver's license (CDL). Isuzu requested the exemption for 31 Japanese engineers and technicians who will be test- driving CMVs for Isuzu. All of the individuals hold a valid Japanese commercial license and are specially trained in driving CMVs in Japan. They normally work at Isuzu Motors Limited (IML) in Japan where their duties involve developing, designing, and/or testing engines for CMVs that will be manufactured, assembled, sold or primarily used in the United States. Isuzu states the exemption is necessary in order to allow the required testing of CMVs in various climatic and environmental conditions within the United States. Isuzu also states the written and driving tests and training program that Japanese drivers must undergo for a Japanese CDL, ensure a level of safety that is equivalent to, or greater than, the level of safety that would be obtained by complying with the regulation. If granted, the exemption would preempt inconsistent State and local requirements applicable to both interstate and intrastate commerce.

TITLE: Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Vision.; Notice of denials; (68 FR 22767);

SUMMARY: The FMCSA announces that 149 individuals were denied exemptions from the Federal vision standard applicable to interstate truck drivers and the reasons for the denials. The FMCSA has statutory authority to exempt individuals from vision standards if the exemptions granted will not compromise safety. The agency has concluded that granting these exemptions does not provide a level of safety that will equal or exceed the level of safety maintained without the exemptions for these commercial drivers.

TITLE: Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Vision;; Notice of applications for exemption from the vision standard; request for comments;; The deadline for submitting comments and responses is May 21, 2003.; FMCSA-2003-14504; 68 FR 19598;

SUMMARY: This notice publishes the FMCSA's receipt of applications from 29 individuals for an exemption from the vision requirement in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations. If granted, the exemptions will enable these individuals to qualify as drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in interstate commerce without meeting the vision standard prescribed in 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10).

TITLE: Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Vision;; Notice of final disposition (21 individuals); effective 04/21/2003.; FMCSA-2002-14223; 68 FR 19596, April 21, 2003;

SUMMARY: The FMCSA announces its decision to exempt 21 individuals from the vision requirement in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs). The exemptions will enable these individuals to qualify as drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in interstate commerce without meeting the vision standard prescribed in 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10).

TITLE: Proposed Guidance for the Use of Binding Arbitration Under the Administrative Dispute Resolution Act of 1996; the deadline for submitting comments is May 30, 2003.; FMCSA-2003-14794;

SUMMARY: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), a modal administration within the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), proposes to use the alternative dispute resolution (ADR) technique of binding arbitration in civil penalty forfeiture proceedings in which the only issues remaining to be resolved are: (1) The amount of the civil penalty owed, and (2) the length of time in which to pay it. FMCSA will not agree to arbitrate maximum penalty cases issued pursuant to section 222 of the Motor Carrier Safety Improvement Act of 1999, or any cases that require interpretation of the regulations or analysis of important policy issues. FMCSA intends to implement binding arbitration immediately upon publication of this notice. Binding arbitration will be implemented to provide more efficient and effective resolution of the large volume of adjudication cases that are now before FMCSA's Chief Safety Officer. In accordance with section 575(c) of the Administrative Dispute Resolution Act of 1996, FMCSA has submitted this Guidance to the Attorney General for consultation. The Attorney General concurs in the issuance of this Guidance. Changes to the arbitration program may be made, however, in accordance with any comments or information received by FMCSA concerning implementation of binding arbitration.

TITLE: Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Vision; effective 04/03/2003; the deadline for submitting comments is April 28, 2003; FMCSA-1998-4334; 68 FR 15037;

SUMMARY: This notice publishes the FMCSA decision to renew the exemptions from the vision requirement in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations for seven individuals. The FMCSA has statutory authority to exempt individuals from vision standards if the exemptions granted will not compromise safety. The agency has concluded that granting these exemptions will provide a level of safety that will equal or exceed the level of safety maintained without the exemptions for these commercial motor vehicle drivers.

TITLE: Security Requirements for Motor Carriers Transporting Hazardous Materials; Notice; 49 CFR Part 397 RIN 2137-AD70; effective 03/23/2003; FMCSA-02-11650 (HM-232A); 68 FR 12350;

SUMMARY: This notice advises the public that the Research and Special Programs Administration (RSPA) has assumed the lead role from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) for rulemaking addressing the security of motor carrier shipments of hazardous materials. On July 16, 2002, the two agencies published a joint advance notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPRM), requesting comments on technological and operational measures to enhance hazardous materials transportation security. Because the Homeland Security Act of 2002 provides RSPA with enhanced authority to regulate hazardous materials transportation security, RSPA will lead further rulemaking development on this subject.

TITLE: Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Vision; effective 03/23/2003; the deadline for submitting comments is April 18, 2003.; FMCSA-2000-7165, 2000-7363, 2000-7918, and 2001-8398; 68 FR 13360;

SUMMARY: This notice publishes the FMCSA decision to renew the exemptions from the vision requirement in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations for 37 individuals. The FMCSA has statutory authority to exempt individuals from vision standards if the exemptions granted will not compromise safety. The agency has concluded that granting these exemptions will provide a level of safety that will equal or exceed the level of safety maintained without the exemptions for these commercial motor vehicle drivers.

TITLE: Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Vision; the deadline for submitting comments is April 3, 2003; FMCSA-2003-14223;

SUMMARY: The FMCSA announces its decision to exempt 33 individuals from the vision requirement in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs).

TITLE: Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Vision; effective 03/07/2003; the deadline for submitting comments is April 3, 2003; FMCSA-2000-7006, 2000-7363, and 2000-7918; 68 FR 10300;

SUMMARY: This notice publishes the FMCSA's receipt of applications from 21 individuals for an exemption from the vision requirement in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs). If granted, the exemptions will enable these individuals to qualify as drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in interstate commerce without meeting the vision standard prescribed in the FMCSRs.

TITLE: Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Vision; Notice of final disposition; effective 03/04/2003; FMCSA 2002-13411; 68 FR 10298;

SUMMARY: This notice publishes the FMCSA's decision to renew the exemptions for 29 individuals from the vision requirement in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations.

TITLE: Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Vision; Notice of final disposition (Jerry Parker); February 25, 2003; effective 02/25/2003; FMCSA-2002-12334; 68 FR 8794;

SUMMARY: The FMCSA announces its decision to exempt Mr. Jerry W. Parker from the vision requirement in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety [[Page 8795]] Regulations (FMCSRs). The FMCSA is deferring its decision regarding Mr. Parker's qualification under the Federal alternative physical qualification standards for loss of limbs until he obtains a prosthetic device, becomes proficient in using the device, and completes the Skill Performance Evaluation (SPE) certification process. Although Mr. Parker is exempted from the vision requirements, he may not operate a commercial vehicle in interstate commerce until he meets the physical qualification standard for the loss of limbs, and this agency issues a SPE certificate.

TITLE: Inquiries Regarding Graduated Commercial Driver's Licensing; Qualifications, Testing and Licensing Standards; The deadline for submitting comments and responses is May 27, 2003; FMCSA-2002-12334; 68 FR 8798, February 25, 2003;

SUMMARY: The FMCSA invites comments responding to a series of questions concerning the need for and potential benefits and costs of implementing a graduated commercial driver's license (GCDL) for commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers. This action is required by section 4019 of the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA-21). A graduated driver's license is a system designed to ease beginning drivers into the traffic environment under controlled exposure to progressively more difficult driving experiences. A graduated or provisional licensing system helps novice drivers improve their driving skills and helps them acquire on-the-road experience under less risky conditions by progressing, or graduating, through driver licensing stages before unrestricted licensure. FMCSA wants to determine if this concept can be successfully adapted to novice CMV drivers.

TITLE: Inspection, Repair, and Maintenance; Intermodal Container Chassis and Trailers; General Requirements; In the 11/29/2002 Federal Register, the FMCSA published a notice of intent to explore a negotiated rulemaking (RegNeg). This notice announces an extension of that January 13, 2003 comment deadline to April 10, 2003; FMCSA-98-3656; 68 FR 8798 8580, February 24, 2002; RIN 2126-AA38;

SUMMARY: The FMCSA is extending the comment period while it continues to explore the feasibility of conducting a negotiated rulemaking (Reg Neg) concerning maintenance of intermodal container chassis and trailers. The FMCSA has hired a convenor to speak to interested parties about the idea of a Reg Neg. The American Association of Railroads (AAR) has requested an extension of time to give a working group additional time to determine if a private-sector solution can be developed. The FMCSA is granting the AAR's request.

TITLE: Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Application; Vision; Notice of application for exemption; Monday, January 13, 2003; Comment are February 12, 2003; FMCSA-2000-7165, FMCSA-2000-7363, and FMCSA-2000-8203; 68 FR 8, 2pp.;

SUMMARY: This notice publishes the FMCSA's decision to renew the exemptions from the vision requirement in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations for nine individuals