Here are the top regulatory events that should be on your radar in 2021, and how to prepare.
Kathy Close - DOT Editor - J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc.
December 04 , 2020
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As 2020 is left to the history books, you're probably looking forward to what 2021 holds.
From a regulatory standpoint, several items should be on your radar in 2021, including the following:
For drivers who were in your Part 382 testing program on January 6, 2020, the Clearinghouse's first annual limited query is due no later than January 5, 2021. For drivers hired since January 6, 2020, the first annual query must be requested within a year of the pre-employment query.
For all driver physicals performed on or after June 22, 2021, the medical examiner (ME) will provide the results directly to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) via the ME's portal account in the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME). In turn, FMCSA will transmit the exam results for CDL holders to CDLIS. State driver's licensing agencies will receive the CDLIS information to include on the driver's motor vehicle record (MVR). As a result of this automated process, procedures for CDL driver exams will be affected.
Non-excepted interstate CDL drivers:
A motor carrier's administrative processes will change substantially. It no longer:
Note that the process of issuing and retaining a med card and verifying the NRCME remains intact for non-CDL commercial motor vehicle drivers.
Canada's ELD mandate is effective June 12, 2021, for all federally regulated carriers.
The hours-of-service regulation adopts by reference the Canadian Council of Motor Transport Administrator's (CCMTA) Technical Standard for Electronic Logging Devices, October 27, 2020, which includes the technical, operational standards and requirements for ELDs used in Canada.
Exemptions for using ELDs apply to:
2021 International Roadcheck is scheduled for May 4-6, 2021. The roadside inspection blitz will take place throughout North America. This coming year, the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance will emphasize tires, wheels, and rims during vehicle inspections.
With 2020 nearing an end, it's a good time to reflect on your accomplishments and what you'd like to see change in 2021. Talk to one of our compliance specialists if you're looking for more ways to improve safety, reduce risk, and boost efficiency. They've got great ideas.
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