On Thursday, Gov. Kim Reynolds issued a disaster proclamation temporarily easing certain transportation regulations to help ensure fuel deliveries across Iowa. The proclamation, issued May 14, suspends state hours-of-service requirements for drivers transporting diesel, gasoline, ethanol, and biodiesel into or within Iowa. The order comes as refinery and terminal maintenance have strained fuel supplies while demand in the agricultural sector remains high. The temporary measure allows commercial motor carriers to travel longer distances and spend additional time at fuel terminals to keep supplies moving throughout the state. The order does not waive federal requirements involving controlled substances and alcohol testing, commercial driver’s license rules, or financial responsibility standards. Motor carriers are also prohibited from requiring fatigued or ill drivers to operate vehicles, and drivers who request rest must be given at least 10 consecutive hours off duty. The disaster proclamation applies statewide and will remain in effect for 14 days, expiring at 11:59 p.m. May 28 unless terminated or extended earlier by the governor.
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