The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has extended a 30-minute break exemption for oversize load haulers until mid December. 

The notice from the FMCSA is scheduled to be published in the Federal Register on Friday, June 20th, and was granted to the Specialized Carriers & Rigging Association. The SC&RA is a trade association that operates internationally with more than 1,400 members in 46 countries. The 30-minute break exemption applies to all truck drivers hauling oversize loads that require permits from state or local government agencies. 

“According to SC&RA, the 30-minute break uniquely affects oversize/overweight loads and has exacerbated the number of instances in which drivers have had to park these loads at roadside, consequently impacting the safety of both the general public and the driver,” the notice reads. 

The SC&RA also pointed out that the required break may force these drivers to pull over on the side of the road when parking is not available, creating a dangerous situation. The association also added that restrictions on days of the week and times of day are often put in place by state and local oversize permits – these timing requirements can conflict with required 30 minute breaks. 

The FMCSA first granted SC&RA a five year 30-minute break exemption back in 2015. That exemption was renewed for another five years in 2020. The most recent six month provisional renewal is scheduled to expire on December 17th, 2025.