83_FR_6957 83 FR 6925 - Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Vision

83 FR 6925 - Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Vision

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

Federal Register Volume 83, Issue 32 (February 15, 2018)

Page Range6925-6927
FR Document2018-03036

FMCSA announces its decision to renew exemptions for 64 individuals from the vision requirement in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) for interstate commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers. The exemptions enable these individuals to continue to operate CMVs in interstate commerce without meeting the vision requirements in one eye.

Federal Register, Volume 83 Issue 32 (Thursday, February 15, 2018)
[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 32 (Thursday, February 15, 2018)]
[Notices]
[Pages 6925-6927]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2018-03036]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

[Docket No. FMCSA-1999-5748; FMCSA-2003-15268; FMCSA-2003-15892; FMCSA-
2005-21711; FMCSA-2005-22194; FMCSA-2005-22727; FMCSA-2006-26653; 
FMCSA-2007-0017; FMCSA-2007-27897; FMCSA-2007-29019; FMCSA-2009-0154; 
FMCSA-2009-0303; FMCSA-2011-0140; FMCSA-2011-0275; FMCSA-2011-0298; 
FMCSA-2011-0325; FMCSA-2013-0028; FMCSA-2013-0029; FMCSA-2013-0165; 
FMCSA-2013-0166; FMCSA-2013-0167; FMCSA-2013-0168; FMCSA-2013-0169; 
FMCSA-2013-0170; FMCSA-2013-0174; FMCSA-2014-0304; FMCSA-2015-0053; 
FMCSA-2015-0056; FMCSA-2015-0070; FMCSA-2015-0071; FMCSA-2015-0072; 
FMCSA-2015-0344; FMCSA-2015-0347]


Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Vision

AGENCY: Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of renewal of exemptions; request for comments.

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SUMMARY: FMCSA announces its decision to renew exemptions for 64 
individuals from the vision requirement in the Federal Motor Carrier 
Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) for interstate commercial motor vehicle 
(CMV) drivers. The exemptions enable these individuals to continue to 
operate CMVs in interstate commerce without meeting the vision 
requirements in one eye.

DATES: Each group of renewed exemptions were applicable on the dates 
stated in the discussions below and will expire on the dates stated in 
the discussions below. Comments must be received on or before March 19, 
2018.

ADDRESSES: You may submit comments bearing the Federal Docket 
Management System (FDMS) Docket No. FMCSA-1999-5748; FMCSA-2003-15268; 
FMCSA-2003-15892; FMCSA-2005-21711; FMCSA-2005-22194; FMCSA-2005-22727; 
FMCSA-2006-26653; FMCSA-2007-0017; FMCSA-2007-27897; FMCSA-2007-29019; 
FMCSA-2009-0154; FMCSA-2009-0303; FMCSA-2011-0140; FMCSA-2011-0275; 
FMCSA-2011-0298; FMCSA-2011-0325; FMCSA-2013-0028; FMCSA-2013-0029; 
FMCSA-2013-0165; FMCSA-2013-0166; FMCSA-2013-0167; FMCSA-2013-0168; 
FMCSA-2013-0169; FMCSA-2013-0170; FMCSA-2013-0174; FMCSA-2014-0304; 
FMCSA-2015-0053; FMCSA-2015-0056; FMCSA-2015-0070; FMCSA-2015-0071; 
FMCSA-2015-0072; FMCSA-2015-0344; FMCSA-2015-0347 using any of the 
following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the online instructions for submitting 
comments.
     Mail: Docket Management Facility; U.S. Department of 
Transportation, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, West Building Ground Floor, 
Room W12-140, Washington, DC 20590-0001.
     Hand Delivery: West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 
1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., 
ET, Monday through Friday, except Federal Holidays.
     Fax: 1-202-493-2251.
    Instructions: Each submission must include the Agency name and the 
docket number(s) for this notice. Note that all comments received will 
be posted without change to http://www.regulations.gov, including any 
personal information provided. Please see the Privacy Act heading below 
for further information.
    Docket: For access to the docket to read background documents or 
comments, go to http://www.regulations.gov at any time or Room W12-140 
on the ground level of the West Building, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, 
Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., e.t., Monday through Friday, 
except Federal holidays. The FDMS is available 24 hours each day, e.t., 
365 days each year. If you want acknowledgment that we received your 
comments, please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope or postcard 
or print the acknowledgement page that appears after submitting 
comments online.
    Privacy Act: In accordance with 5 U.S.C. 553(c), DOT solicits 
comments from the public to better inform its rulemaking process. DOT 
posts these comments, without edit, including any personal information 
the commenter provides, to http://www.regulations.gov, as described in 
the system of records notice (DOT/ALL-14 FDMS), which can be reviewed 
at http://www.dot.gov/privacy.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ms. Christine A. Hydock, Chief, 
Medical Programs Division, 202-366-4001, [email protected], FMCSA, 
Department of Transportation, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Room W64-224, 
Washington, DC 20590-0001. Office hours are from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., 
e.t., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. If you have 
questions regarding viewing or submitting material to the docket, 
contact Docket Services, telephone (202) 366-9826.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

[[Page 6926]]

I. Background

    Under 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, FMCSA may grant an exemption 
for five years if it finds ``such exemption would likely achieve a 
level of safety that is equivalent to or greater than the level that 
would be achieved absent such exemption.'' The statute also allows the 
Agency to renew exemptions at the end of the five-year period. FMCSA 
grants exemptions from the FMCSRs for a two-year period to align with 
the maximum duration of a driver's medical certification.
    The physical qualification standard for drivers regarding vision 
found in 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10) states that a person is physically 
qualified to driver a CMV if that person has distant visual acuity of 
at least 20/40 (Snellen) in each eye without corrective lenses or 
visual acuity separately corrected to 20/40 (Snellen) or better with 
corrective lenses, distant binocular acuity of a least 20/40 (Snellen) 
in both eyes with or without corrective lenses, field of vision of at 
least 70[deg] in the horizontal meridian in each eye, and the ability 
to recognize the colors of traffic signals and devices showing red, 
green, and amber.
    The 64 individuals listed in this notice have requested renewal of 
their exemptions from the vision standard in 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10), in 
accordance with FMCSA procedures. Accordingly, FMCSA has evaluated 
these applications for renewal on their merits and decided to extend 
each exemption for a renewable two-year period.

II. Request for Comments

    Interested parties or organizations possessing information that 
would otherwise show that any, or all, of these drivers are not 
currently achieving the statutory level of safety should immediately 
notify FMCSA. The Agency will evaluate any adverse evidence submitted 
and, if safety is being compromised or if continuation of the exemption 
would not be consistent with the goals and objectives of 49 U.S.C. 
31136(e) and 31315, FMCSA will take immediate steps to revoke the 
exemption of a driver.

III. Basis for Renewing Exemptions

    Under 49 U.S.C. 31315(b)(1), an exemption may be granted for no 
longer than two years from its approval date and may be renewed upon 
application. In accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, each of 
the 64 applicants has satisfied the renewal conditions for obtaining an 
exemption from the vision requirement (64 FR 40404; 64 FR 66962; 66 FR 
66969; 68 FR 37197; 68 FR 52811; 68 FR 61860; 68 FR 69432; 70 FR 48797; 
70 FR 57353; 70 FR 61165; 70 FR 61493; 70 FR 71884; 70 FR 72689; 71 FR 
644; 71 FR 4632; 72 FR 8417; 72 FR 36099; 72 FR 39879; 72 FR 52419; 72 
FR 54971; 72 FR 58362; 72 FR 62897; 72 FR 64273; 72 FR 67340; 72 FR 
67344; 72 FR 71995; 73 FR 1395; 73 FR 6246; 74 FR 37295; 74 FR 48343; 
74 FR 49069; 74 FR 53581; 74 FR 57553; 74 FR 60021; 74 FR 60022; 74 FR 
62632; 74 FR 65845; 74 FR 65847; 75 FR 1450; 75 FR 4623; 76 FR 37169; 
76 FR 50318; 76 FR 62143; 76 FR 64164; 76 FR 64171; 76 FR 70210; 76 FR 
70212; 76 FR 70213; 76 FR 70215; 76 FR 75940; 76 FR 78728; 76 FR 79760; 
77 FR 539; 77 FR 541; 77 FR 543; 77 FR 545; 77 FR 3554; 77 FR 10608; 78 
FR 27281; 78 FR 34143; 78 FR 41188; 78 FR 47818; 78 FR 52602; 78 FR 
62935; 78 FR 63302; 78 FR 63307; 78 FR 64271; 78 FR 64274; 78 FR 66099; 
78 FR 67454; 78 FR 67460; 78 FR 68137; 78 FR 74223; 78 FR 76395; 78 FR 
76704; 78 FR 76705; 78 FR 76707; 78 FR 77778; 78 FR 77780; 78 FR 77782; 
78 FR 78475; 78 FR 78477; 79 FR 1908; 79 FR 2748; 79 FR 3919; 79 FR 
4803; 79 FR 6993; 79 FR 14333; 79 FR 53708; 80 FR 14223; 80 FR 33007; 
80 FR 33011; 80 FR 40122; 80 FR 49302; 80 FR 50915; 80 FR 59225; 80 FR 
59230; 80 FR 62163; 80 FR 63839; 80 FR 63869; 80 FR 67472; 80 FR 67476; 
80 FR 67481; 80 FR 70060; 80 FR 76345; 80 FR 80443; 81 FR 1284; 81 FR 
1474; 81 FR 11642; 81 FR 15401; 81 FR 15404; 81 FR 16265; 81 FR 48493; 
81 FR 60117). They have submitted evidence showing that the vision in 
the better eye continues to meet the requirement specified at 49 CFR 
391.41(b)(10) and that the vision impairment is stable. In addition, a 
review of each record of safety while driving with the respective 
vision deficiencies over the past two years indicates each applicant 
continues to meet the vision exemption requirements. These factors 
provide an adequate basis for predicting each driver's ability to 
continue to drive safely in interstate commerce. Therefore, FMCSA 
concludes that extending the exemption for each renewal applicant for a 
period of two years is likely to achieve a level of safety equal to 
that existing without the exemption.
    In accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, the following 
groups of drivers received renewed exemptions in the month of February 
and are discussed below:
    As of February 9, 2018, and in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) 
and 31315, the following 55 individuals have satisfied the renewal 
conditions for obtaining an exemption from the vision requirement in 
the FMCSRs for interstate CMV drivers (64 FR 40404; 64 FR 66962; 66 FR 
66969; 68 FR 37197; 68 FR 52811; 68 FR 61860; 68 FR 69432; 70 FR 48797; 
70 FR 57353; 70 FR 61165; 70 FR 61493; 70 FR 71884; 70 FR 72689; 71 FR 
644; 71 FR 4632; 72 FR 8417; 72 FR 36099; 72 FR 39879; 72 FR 52419; 72 
FR 54971; 72 FR 58362; 72 FR 62897; 72 FR 64273; 72 FR 67340; 72 FR 
67344; 72 FR 71995; 73 FR 1395; 73 FR 6246; 74 FR 37295; 74 FR 48343; 
74 FR 49069; 74 FR 53581; 74 FR 57553; 74 FR 60021; 74 FR 60022; 74 FR 
62632; 74 FR 65845; 74 FR 65847; 75 FR 1450; 75 FR 4623; 76 FR 37169; 
76 FR 50318; 76 FR 62143; 76 FR 64164; 76 FR 64171; 76 FR 70210; 76 FR 
70212; 76 FR 70213; 76 FR 70215; 76 FR 75940; 76 FR 78728; 76 FR 79760; 
77 FR 541; 77 FR 543; 77 FR 545; 77 FR 3554; 78 FR 27281; 78 FR 34143; 
78 FR 41188; 78 FR 47818; 78 FR 52602; 78 FR 62935; 78 FR 63302; 78 FR 
63307; 78 FR 64271; 78 FR 64274; 78 FR 66099; 78 FR 67454; 78 FR 67460; 
78 FR 68137; 78 FR 74223; 78 FR 76395; 78 FR 76704; 78 FR 76705; 78 FR 
76707; 78 FR 77778; 78 FR 77780; 78 FR 77782; 78 FR 78475; 78 FR 78477; 
79 FR 2748; 79 FR 3919; 79 FR 4803; 79 FR 53708; 80 FR 14223; 80 FR 
33007; 80 FR 33011; 80 FR 40122; 80 FR 49302; 80 FR 50915; 80 FR 59225; 
80 FR 59230; 80 FR 62163; 80 FR 63839; 80 FR 63869; 80 FR 67472; 80 FR 
67476; 80 FR 67481; 80 FR 70060; 80 FR 76345; 80 FR 80443; 81 FR 1284; 
81 FR 11642; 81 FR 15401; 81 FR 15404; 81 FR 16265; 81 FR 60117):

Richard D. Becotte (NH)
Timothy A. Bohling (CO)
Scott Brady (FL)
Duane W. Brzuchalski (AZ)
Daryl Carpenter (MD)
Henry L. Chastain (GA)
Martina B. Classen (IA)
Robert L. Cross, Jr. (MO)
Alan J. Daisey (DE)
Rufus A. Dennis (TN)
Albert M. DiVella (NV)
Michael M. Edleston (MA)
Terry D. Elliott (TN)
James P. Fitzgerald (MA)
Russell W. Foster (OH)
Gordon R. Fritz (WI)
Richard L. Gandee (OH)
James E. Goodman (AL)
Christopher L. Granby (MI)
John M. Guilford (AL)
John E. Halcomb (GA)
Mervin M. Hershberger (WI)
Steven M. Hoover (IL)
Frank E. Johnson, Jr. (FL)
Jeremy W. Knott (NC)
Roger D. Kool (IA)
Michael R. Leftwich (GA)
Jose A. Marco (TX)
David Matos (NY)
Dennis L. Maxcy (NY)
George A. McCue (NV)
Cameron S. McMillen (NM)
David L. Menken (NY)
Gregory G. Miller (OH)

[[Page 6927]]

Rashawn L. Morris (VA)
Charles D. Oestreich (MN)
Carols A. Osollo (NM)
Robert L. Peason (GA)
Robert M. Pickett, II (MI)
Johnny L. Powell (MD)
Branden J. Ramos (CA)
Andres Regalado (CA)
Thenon D. Ridley (TX)
Christopher M. Rivera (NM)
Richard S. Robb (NM)
Angelo D. Rogers (AL)
David J. Rothermal (RI)
Sonny Scott (OH)
James J. Slemmer (PA)
John T. Thor (MN)
Donald L. Urmston (OH)
Paul J. Vines (AL)
Jackie G. Wells (VA)
Joseph A. Wells (IL)
James D. Zimmer (OH)

    The drivers were included in docket numbers FMCSA-1999-5748; FMCSA-
2003-15268; FMCSA-2003-15892; FMCSA-2005-21711; FMCSA-2005-22194; 
FMCSA-2005-22727; FMCSA-2006-26653; FMCSA-2007-0017; FMCSA-2007-27897; 
FMCSA-2007-29019; FMCSA-2009-0154; FMCSA-2009-0303; FMCSA-2011-0140; 
FMCSA-2011-0275; FMCSA-2011-0298; FMCSA-2013-0028; FMCSA-2013-0029; 
FMCSA-2013-0165; FMCSA-2013-0166; FMCSA-2013-0167; FMCSA-2013-0168; 
FMCSA-2013-0169; FMCSA-2013-0170; FMCSA-2014-0304; FMCSA-2015-0053; 
FMCSA-2015-0056; FMCSA-2015-0070; FMCSA-2015-0071; FMCSA-2015-0072; 
FMCSA-2015-0344. Their exemptions are applicable as of February 9, 
2018, and will expire on February 9, 2020.
    As of February 12, 2018, and in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) 
and 31315, the following six individuals have satisfied the renewal 
conditions for obtaining an exemption from the vision requirement in 
the FMCSRs for interstate CMV drivers (81 FR 1474; 81 FR 48493):

Charles H. Baim (PA)
Dana L. Colberg (OR)
Joseph T. Saba (MN)
LeRoy W. Scharkey (MN)
Walton W. Smith (VA)
Aaron D. Tillman (DE)

    The drivers were included in docket number FMCSA-2015-0347. Their 
exemptions are applicable as of February 12, 2018, and will expire on 
February 12, 2020.
    As of February 22, 2018, and in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) 
and 31315, the following two individuals have satisfied the renewal 
conditions for obtaining an exemption from the vision requirement in 
the FMCSRs for interstate CMV drivers (77 FR 539; 77 FR 10608; 79 FR 
6993; 81 FR 15401):

Brian K. Cline (NC)
Mickey Lawson (NC)

    The drivers were included in docket number FMCSA-2011-0325. Their 
exemptions are applicable as of February 22, 2018, and will expire on 
February 22, 2020.
    As of February 27, 2018, and in accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) 
and 31315, Danielle Wilkins (CA) has satisfied the renewal conditions 
for obtaining an exemption from the vision requirement in the FMCSRs 
for interstate CMV drivers (79 FR 1908; 79 FR 14333; 81 FR 15401).
    The driver was included in docket number FMCSA-2013-0174. The 
exemption is applicable as of February 27, 2018, and will expire on 
February 27, 2020.

IV. Conditions and Requirements

    The exemptions are extended subject to the following conditions: 
(1) Each driver must undergo an annual physical examination (a) by an 
ophthalmologist or optometrist who attests that the vision in the 
better eye continues to meet the requirements in 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10), 
and (b) by a certified Medical Examiner, as defined by 49 CFR 390.5, 
who attests that the driver is otherwise physically qualified under 49 
CFR 391.41; (2) each driver must provide a copy of the 
ophthalmologist's or optometrist's report to the Medical Examiner at 
the time of the annual medical examination; and (3) each driver must 
provide a copy of the annual medical certification to the employer for 
retention in the driver's qualification file or keep a copy of his/her 
driver's qualification if he/she is self-employed. The driver must also 
have a copy of the exemption when driving, for presentation to a duly 
authorized Federal, State, or local enforcement official. The exemption 
will be rescinded if: (1) The person fails to comply with the terms and 
conditions of the exemption; (2) the exemption has resulted in a lower 
level of safety than was maintained before it was granted; or (3) 
continuation of the exemption would not be consistent with the goals 
and objectives of 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315.

V. Preemption

    During the period the exemption is in effect, no State shall 
enforce any law or regulation that conflicts with this exemption with 
respect to a person operating under the exemption.

VI. Conclusion

    Based upon its evaluation of the 64 exemption applications, FMCSA 
renews the exemptions of the aforementioned drivers from the vision 
requirement in 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10), subject to the requirements cited 
above. In accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, each exemption 
will be valid for two years unless revoked earlier by FMCSA.

    Issued on: February 7, 2018.
Larry W. Minor.
Associate Administrator for Policy.
[FR Doc. 2018-03036 Filed 2-14-18; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-EX-P



                                                                            Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 32 / Thursday, February 15, 2018 / Notices                                           6925

                                                Gary D. Vollertsen (CO)                                 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION                             • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to
                                                                                                                                                              http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the
                                                  The drivers were included in docket                   Federal Motor Carrier Safety                          online instructions for submitting
                                                number FMCSA–2013–0170. Their                           Administration                                        comments.
                                                exemptions are applicable as of January
                                                29, 2018, and will expire on January 29,                [Docket No. FMCSA–1999–5748; FMCSA–                      • Mail: Docket Management Facility;
                                                2020.                                                   2003–15268; FMCSA–2003–15892; FMCSA–                  U.S. Department of Transportation, 1200
                                                                                                        2005–21711; FMCSA–2005–22194; FMCSA–                  New Jersey Avenue SE, West Building
                                                IV. Conditions and Requirements                         2005–22727; FMCSA–2006–26653; FMCSA–                  Ground Floor, Room W12–140,
                                                                                                        2007–0017; FMCSA–2007–27897; FMCSA–                   Washington, DC 20590–0001.
                                                  The exemptions are extended subject                   2007–29019; FMCSA–2009–0154; FMCSA–                      • Hand Delivery: West Building
                                                to the following conditions: (1) Each                   2009–0303; FMCSA–2011–0140; FMCSA–
                                                                                                                                                              Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200
                                                driver must undergo an annual physical                  2011–0275; FMCSA–2011–0298; FMCSA–
                                                                                                        2011–0325; FMCSA–2013–0028; FMCSA–                    New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington,
                                                examination (a) by an ophthalmologist                                                                         DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., ET,
                                                or optometrist who attests that the                     2013–0029; FMCSA–2013–0165; FMCSA–
                                                                                                        2013–0166; FMCSA–2013–0167; FMCSA–                    Monday through Friday, except Federal
                                                vision in the better eye continues to                                                                         Holidays.
                                                                                                        2013–0168; FMCSA–2013–0169; FMCSA–
                                                meet the requirements in 49 CFR                         2013–0170; FMCSA–2013–0174; FMCSA–                       • Fax: 1–202–493–2251.
                                                391.41(b)(10), and (b) by a certified                   2014–0304; FMCSA–2015–0053; FMCSA–                       Instructions: Each submission must
                                                Medical Examiner, as defined by 49 CFR                  2015–0056; FMCSA–2015–0070; FMCSA–                    include the Agency name and the
                                                390.5, who attests that the driver is                   2015–0071; FMCSA–2015–0072; FMCSA–
                                                                                                                                                              docket number(s) for this notice. Note
                                                otherwise physically qualified under 49                 2015–0344; FMCSA–2015–0347]
                                                                                                                                                              that all comments received will be
                                                CFR 391.41; (2) each driver must
                                                                                                        Qualification of Drivers; Exemption                   posted without change to http://
                                                provide a copy of the ophthalmologist’s
                                                                                                        Applications; Vision                                  www.regulations.gov, including any
                                                or optometrist’s report to the Medical
                                                                                                                                                              personal information provided. Please
                                                Examiner at the time of the annual                      AGENCY: Federal Motor Carrier Safety                  see the Privacy Act heading below for
                                                medical examination; and (3) each                       Administration (FMCSA), DOT.                          further information.
                                                driver must provide a copy of the                       ACTION: Notice of renewal of
                                                annual medical certification to the                                                                              Docket: For access to the docket to
                                                                                                        exemptions; request for comments.                     read background documents or
                                                employer for retention in the driver’s
                                                qualification file or keep a copy of his/                                                                     comments, go to http://
                                                                                                        SUMMARY:   FMCSA announces its
                                                her driver’s qualification if he/her is                                                                       www.regulations.gov at any time or
                                                                                                        decision to renew exemptions for 64
                                                self- employed. The driver must also                                                                          Room W12–140 on the ground level of
                                                                                                        individuals from the vision requirement
                                                have a copy of the exemption when                                                                             the West Building, 1200 New Jersey
                                                                                                        in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety
                                                driving, for presentation to a duly                                                                           Avenue SE, Washington, DC, between 9
                                                                                                        Regulations (FMCSRs) for interstate
                                                authorized Federal, State, or local                                                                           a.m. and 5 p.m., e.t., Monday through
                                                                                                        commercial motor vehicle (CMV)
                                                enforcement official. The exemption                                                                           Friday, except Federal holidays. The
                                                                                                        drivers. The exemptions enable these
                                                will be rescinded if: (1) The person fails                                                                    FDMS is available 24 hours each day,
                                                                                                        individuals to continue to operate CMVs
                                                to comply with the terms and                                                                                  e.t., 365 days each year. If you want
                                                                                                        in interstate commerce without meeting
                                                conditions of the exemption; (2) the                                                                          acknowledgment that we received your
                                                                                                        the vision requirements in one eye.
                                                exemption has resulted in a lower level                                                                       comments, please include a self-
                                                                                                        DATES: Each group of renewed                          addressed, stamped envelope or
                                                of safety than was maintained before it                 exemptions were applicable on the
                                                was granted; or (3) continuation of the                                                                       postcard or print the acknowledgement
                                                                                                        dates stated in the discussions below                 page that appears after submitting
                                                exemption would not be consistent with                  and will expire on the dates stated in
                                                the goals and objectives of 49 U.S.C.                                                                         comments online.
                                                                                                        the discussions below. Comments must                     Privacy Act: In accordance with 5
                                                31136(e) and 31315.                                     be received on or before March 19, 2018.              U.S.C. 553(c), DOT solicits comments
                                                V. Preemption                                           ADDRESSES: You may submit comments                    from the public to better inform its
                                                                                                        bearing the Federal Docket Management                 rulemaking process. DOT posts these
                                                   During the period the exemption is in                System (FDMS) Docket No. FMCSA–                       comments, without edit, including any
                                                effect, no State shall enforce any law or               1999–5748; FMCSA–2003–15268;                          personal information the commenter
                                                regulation that conflicts with this                     FMCSA–2003–15892; FMCSA–2005–                         provides, to http://www.regulations.gov,
                                                exemption with respect to a person                      21711; FMCSA–2005–22194; FMCSA–                       as described in the system of records
                                                operating under the exemption.                          2005–22727; FMCSA–2006–26653;                         notice (DOT/ALL–14 FDMS), which can
                                                VI. Conclusion                                          FMCSA–2007–0017; FMCSA–2007–                          be reviewed at http://www.dot.gov/
                                                                                                        27897; FMCSA–2007–29019; FMCSA–                       privacy.
                                                  Based upon its evaluation of the 113                  2009–0154; FMCSA–2009–0303;
                                                exemption applications, FMCSA renews                    FMCSA–2011–0140; FMCSA–2011–                          FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:     Ms.
                                                the exemptions of the aforementioned                    0275; FMCSA–2011–0298; FMCSA–                         Christine A. Hydock, Chief, Medical
                                                drivers from the vision requirement in                  2011–0325; FMCSA–2013–0028;                           Programs Division, 202–366–4001,
                                                49 CFR 391.41(b)(10), subject to the                    FMCSA–2013–0029; FMCSA–2013–                          fmcsamedical@dot.gov, FMCSA,
                                                requirements cited above. In accordance                 0165; FMCSA–2013–0166; FMCSA–                         Department of Transportation, 1200
                                                with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, each                 2013–0167; FMCSA–2013–0168;                           New Jersey Avenue SE, Room W64–224,
                                                                                                        FMCSA–2013–0169; FMCSA–2013–                          Washington, DC 20590–0001. Office
sradovich on DSK3GMQ082PROD with NOTICES




                                                exemption will be valid for two years
                                                unless revoked earlier by FMCSA.                        0170; FMCSA–2013–0174; FMCSA–                         hours are from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., e.t.,
                                                                                                        2014–0304; FMCSA–2015–0053;                           Monday through Friday, except Federal
                                                  Issued on: February 7, 2018.                                                                                holidays. If you have questions
                                                                                                        FMCSA–2015–0056; FMCSA–2015–
                                                Larry W. Minor,                                         0070; FMCSA–2015–0071; FMCSA–                         regarding viewing or submitting
                                                Associate Administrator for Policy.                     2015–0072; FMCSA–2015–0344;                           material to the docket, contact Docket
                                                [FR Doc. 2018–03042 Filed 2–14–18; 8:45 am]             FMCSA–2015–0347 using any of the                      Services, telephone (202) 366–9826.
                                                BILLING CODE 4910–EX–P                                  following methods:                                    SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:



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                                                6926                        Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 32 / Thursday, February 15, 2018 / Notices

                                                I. Background                                           70 FR 57353; 70 FR 61165; 70 FR 61493;                70 FR 48797; 70 FR 57353; 70 FR 61165;
                                                   Under 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315,                  70 FR 71884; 70 FR 72689; 71 FR 644;                  70 FR 61493; 70 FR 71884; 70 FR 72689;
                                                FMCSA may grant an exemption for five                   71 FR 4632; 72 FR 8417; 72 FR 36099;                  71 FR 644; 71 FR 4632; 72 FR 8417; 72
                                                years if it finds ‘‘such exemption would                72 FR 39879; 72 FR 52419; 72 FR 54971;                FR 36099; 72 FR 39879; 72 FR 52419;
                                                likely achieve a level of safety that is                72 FR 58362; 72 FR 62897; 72 FR 64273;                72 FR 54971; 72 FR 58362; 72 FR 62897;
                                                                                                        72 FR 67340; 72 FR 67344; 72 FR 71995;                72 FR 64273; 72 FR 67340; 72 FR 67344;
                                                equivalent to or greater than the level
                                                                                                        73 FR 1395; 73 FR 6246; 74 FR 37295;                  72 FR 71995; 73 FR 1395; 73 FR 6246;
                                                that would be achieved absent such
                                                                                                        74 FR 48343; 74 FR 49069; 74 FR 53581;                74 FR 37295; 74 FR 48343; 74 FR 49069;
                                                exemption.’’ The statute also allows the
                                                                                                        74 FR 57553; 74 FR 60021; 74 FR 60022;                74 FR 53581; 74 FR 57553; 74 FR 60021;
                                                Agency to renew exemptions at the end
                                                                                                        74 FR 62632; 74 FR 65845; 74 FR 65847;                74 FR 60022; 74 FR 62632; 74 FR 65845;
                                                of the five-year period. FMCSA grants
                                                                                                        75 FR 1450; 75 FR 4623; 76 FR 37169;                  74 FR 65847; 75 FR 1450; 75 FR 4623;
                                                exemptions from the FMCSRs for a two-
                                                                                                        76 FR 50318; 76 FR 62143; 76 FR 64164;                76 FR 37169; 76 FR 50318; 76 FR 62143;
                                                year period to align with the maximum
                                                                                                        76 FR 64171; 76 FR 70210; 76 FR 70212;                76 FR 64164; 76 FR 64171; 76 FR 70210;
                                                duration of a driver’s medical
                                                                                                        76 FR 70213; 76 FR 70215; 76 FR 75940;                76 FR 70212; 76 FR 70213; 76 FR 70215;
                                                certification.
                                                                                                        76 FR 78728; 76 FR 79760; 77 FR 539;                  76 FR 75940; 76 FR 78728; 76 FR 79760;
                                                   The physical qualification standard                  77 FR 541; 77 FR 543; 77 FR 545; 77 FR
                                                for drivers regarding vision found in 49                                                                      77 FR 541; 77 FR 543; 77 FR 545; 77 FR
                                                                                                        3554; 77 FR 10608; 78 FR 27281; 78 FR                 3554; 78 FR 27281; 78 FR 34143; 78 FR
                                                CFR 391.41(b)(10) states that a person is               34143; 78 FR 41188; 78 FR 47818; 78 FR
                                                physically qualified to driver a CMV if                                                                       41188; 78 FR 47818; 78 FR 52602; 78 FR
                                                                                                        52602; 78 FR 62935; 78 FR 63302; 78 FR                62935; 78 FR 63302; 78 FR 63307; 78 FR
                                                that person has distant visual acuity of                63307; 78 FR 64271; 78 FR 64274; 78 FR
                                                at least 20/40 (Snellen) in each eye                                                                          64271; 78 FR 64274; 78 FR 66099; 78 FR
                                                                                                        66099; 78 FR 67454; 78 FR 67460; 78 FR                67454; 78 FR 67460; 78 FR 68137; 78 FR
                                                without corrective lenses or visual                     68137; 78 FR 74223; 78 FR 76395; 78 FR
                                                acuity separately corrected to 20/40                                                                          74223; 78 FR 76395; 78 FR 76704; 78 FR
                                                                                                        76704; 78 FR 76705; 78 FR 76707; 78 FR                76705; 78 FR 76707; 78 FR 77778; 78 FR
                                                (Snellen) or better with corrective                     77778; 78 FR 77780; 78 FR 77782; 78 FR
                                                lenses, distant binocular acuity of a least                                                                   77780; 78 FR 77782; 78 FR 78475; 78 FR
                                                                                                        78475; 78 FR 78477; 79 FR 1908; 79 FR                 78477; 79 FR 2748; 79 FR 3919; 79 FR
                                                20/40 (Snellen) in both eyes with or                    2748; 79 FR 3919; 79 FR 4803; 79 FR
                                                without corrective lenses, field of vision                                                                    4803; 79 FR 53708; 80 FR 14223; 80 FR
                                                                                                        6993; 79 FR 14333; 79 FR 53708; 80 FR                 33007; 80 FR 33011; 80 FR 40122; 80 FR
                                                of at least 70° in the horizontal meridian              14223; 80 FR 33007; 80 FR 33011; 80 FR
                                                in each eye, and the ability to recognize                                                                     49302; 80 FR 50915; 80 FR 59225; 80 FR
                                                                                                        40122; 80 FR 49302; 80 FR 50915; 80 FR                59230; 80 FR 62163; 80 FR 63839; 80 FR
                                                the colors of traffic signals and devices               59225; 80 FR 59230; 80 FR 62163; 80 FR
                                                showing red, green, and amber.                                                                                63869; 80 FR 67472; 80 FR 67476; 80 FR
                                                                                                        63839; 80 FR 63869; 80 FR 67472; 80 FR                67481; 80 FR 70060; 80 FR 76345; 80 FR
                                                   The 64 individuals listed in this                    67476; 80 FR 67481; 80 FR 70060; 80 FR
                                                notice have requested renewal of their                                                                        80443; 81 FR 1284; 81 FR 11642; 81 FR
                                                                                                        76345; 80 FR 80443; 81 FR 1284; 81 FR                 15401; 81 FR 15404; 81 FR 16265; 81 FR
                                                exemptions from the vision standard in                  1474; 81 FR 11642; 81 FR 15401; 81 FR
                                                49 CFR 391.41(b)(10), in accordance                                                                           60117):
                                                                                                        15404; 81 FR 16265; 81 FR 48493; 81 FR
                                                with FMCSA procedures. Accordingly,                                                                           Richard D. Becotte (NH)
                                                                                                        60117). They have submitted evidence
                                                FMCSA has evaluated these                               showing that the vision in the better eye             Timothy A. Bohling (CO)
                                                applications for renewal on their merits                continues to meet the requirement                     Scott Brady (FL)
                                                and decided to extend each exemption                    specified at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10) and                 Duane W. Brzuchalski (AZ)
                                                for a renewable two-year period.                        that the vision impairment is stable. In              Daryl Carpenter (MD)
                                                                                                        addition, a review of each record of                  Henry L. Chastain (GA)
                                                II. Request for Comments                                                                                      Martina B. Classen (IA)
                                                                                                        safety while driving with the respective
                                                  Interested parties or organizations                   vision deficiencies over the past two                 Robert L. Cross, Jr. (MO)
                                                possessing information that would                       years indicates each applicant continues              Alan J. Daisey (DE)
                                                otherwise show that any, or all, of these               to meet the vision exemption                          Rufus A. Dennis (TN)
                                                drivers are not currently achieving the                 requirements. These factors provide an                Albert M. DiVella (NV)
                                                statutory level of safety should                        adequate basis for predicting each                    Michael M. Edleston (MA)
                                                immediately notify FMCSA. The                           driver’s ability to continue to drive                 Terry D. Elliott (TN)
                                                Agency will evaluate any adverse                        safely in interstate commerce.                        James P. Fitzgerald (MA)
                                                evidence submitted and, if safety is                    Therefore, FMCSA concludes that                       Russell W. Foster (OH)
                                                being compromised or if continuation of                 extending the exemption for each                      Gordon R. Fritz (WI)
                                                the exemption would not be consistent                   renewal applicant for a period of two                 Richard L. Gandee (OH)
                                                with the goals and objectives of 49                     years is likely to achieve a level of safety          James E. Goodman (AL)
                                                U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, FMCSA will                   equal to that existing without the                    Christopher L. Granby (MI)
                                                take immediate steps to revoke the                      exemption.                                            John M. Guilford (AL)
                                                exemption of a driver.                                    In accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e)               John E. Halcomb (GA)
                                                                                                        and 31315, the following groups of                    Mervin M. Hershberger (WI)
                                                III. Basis for Renewing Exemptions                                                                            Steven M. Hoover (IL)
                                                                                                        drivers received renewed exemptions in
                                                  Under 49 U.S.C. 31315(b)(1), an                       the month of February and are                         Frank E. Johnson, Jr. (FL)
                                                exemption may be granted for no longer                  discussed below:                                      Jeremy W. Knott (NC)
                                                than two years from its approval date                     As of February 9, 2018, and in                      Roger D. Kool (IA)
                                                and may be renewed upon application.                                                                          Michael R. Leftwich (GA)
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                                                                                                        accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and
                                                In accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e)                   31315, the following 55 individuals                   Jose A. Marco (TX)
                                                and 31315, each of the 64 applicants has                have satisfied the renewal conditions for             David Matos (NY)
                                                satisfied the renewal conditions for                    obtaining an exemption from the vision                Dennis L. Maxcy (NY)
                                                obtaining an exemption from the vision                  requirement in the FMCSRs for                         George A. McCue (NV)
                                                requirement (64 FR 40404; 64 FR 66962;                  interstate CMV drivers (64 FR 40404; 64               Cameron S. McMillen (NM)
                                                66 FR 66969; 68 FR 37197; 68 FR 52811;                  FR 66962; 66 FR 66969; 68 FR 37197;                   David L. Menken (NY)
                                                68 FR 61860; 68 FR 69432; 70 FR 48797;                  68 FR 52811; 68 FR 61860; 68 FR 69432;                Gregory G. Miller (OH)


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                                                                            Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 32 / Thursday, February 15, 2018 / Notices                                                 6927

                                                Rashawn L. Morris (VA)                                  interstate CMV drivers (77 FR 539; 77                 VI. Conclusion
                                                Charles D. Oestreich (MN)                               FR 10608; 79 FR 6993; 81 FR 15401):                     Based upon its evaluation of the 64
                                                Carols A. Osollo (NM)                                                                                         exemption applications, FMCSA renews
                                                                                                        Brian K. Cline (NC)
                                                Robert L. Peason (GA)
                                                                                                        Mickey Lawson (NC)                                    the exemptions of the aforementioned
                                                Robert M. Pickett, II (MI)
                                                                                                                                                              drivers from the vision requirement in
                                                Johnny L. Powell (MD)                                     The drivers were included in docket                 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10), subject to the
                                                Branden J. Ramos (CA)                                   number FMCSA–2011–0325. Their                         requirements cited above. In accordance
                                                Andres Regalado (CA)                                    exemptions are applicable as of                       with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, each
                                                Thenon D. Ridley (TX)                                   February 22, 2018, and will expire on
                                                Christopher M. Rivera (NM)                                                                                    exemption will be valid for two years
                                                                                                        February 22, 2020.                                    unless revoked earlier by FMCSA.
                                                Richard S. Robb (NM)
                                                Angelo D. Rogers (AL)                                     As of February 27, 2018, and in                       Issued on: February 7, 2018.
                                                David J. Rothermal (RI)                                 accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and                Larry W. Minor.
                                                Sonny Scott (OH)                                        31315, Danielle Wilkins (CA) has                      Associate Administrator for Policy.
                                                James J. Slemmer (PA)                                   satisfied the renewal conditions for                  [FR Doc. 2018–03036 Filed 2–14–18; 8:45 am]
                                                John T. Thor (MN)                                       obtaining an exemption from the vision
                                                                                                                                                              BILLING CODE 4910–EX–P
                                                Donald L. Urmston (OH)                                  requirement in the FMCSRs for
                                                Paul J. Vines (AL)                                      interstate CMV drivers (79 FR 1908; 79
                                                Jackie G. Wells (VA)                                    FR 14333; 81 FR 15401).                               DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
                                                Joseph A. Wells (IL)                                      The driver was included in docket
                                                James D. Zimmer (OH)                                    number FMCSA–2013–0174. The                           Federal Motor Carrier Safety
                                                  The drivers were included in docket                   exemption is applicable as of February                Administration
                                                numbers FMCSA–1999–5748; FMCSA–                         27, 2018, and will expire on February
                                                                                                                                                              [Docket No. FMCSA–2006–25854; FMCSA–
                                                2003–15268; FMCSA–2003–15892;                           27, 2020.                                             2013–0108; FMCSA–2014–0382]
                                                FMCSA–2005–21711; FMCSA–2005–                           IV. Conditions and Requirements
                                                22194; FMCSA–2005–22727; FMCSA–                                                                               Qualification of Drivers; Exemption
                                                2006–26653; FMCSA–2007–0017;                              The exemptions are extended subject                 Applications; Epilepsy and Seizure
                                                FMCSA–2007–27897; FMCSA–2007–                           to the following conditions: (1) Each                 Disorders
                                                29019; FMCSA–2009–0154; FMCSA–                          driver must undergo an annual physical
                                                2009–0303; FMCSA–2011–0140;                             examination (a) by an ophthalmologist                 AGENCY: Federal Motor Carrier Safety
                                                FMCSA–2011–0275; FMCSA–2011–                            or optometrist who attests that the                   Administration (FMCSA), DOT.
                                                0298; FMCSA–2013–0028; FMCSA–                           vision in the better eye continues to                 ACTION: Notice of renewal of
                                                2013–0029; FMCSA–2013–0165;                             meet the requirements in 49 CFR                       exemptions; request for comments.
                                                FMCSA–2013–0166; FMCSA–2013–                            391.41(b)(10), and (b) by a certified
                                                0167; FMCSA–2013–0168; FMCSA–                           Medical Examiner, as defined by 49 CFR                SUMMARY:   FMCSA announces its
                                                2013–0169; FMCSA–2013–0170;                             390.5, who attests that the driver is                 decision to renew exemptions for five
                                                FMCSA–2014–0304; FMCSA–2015–                            otherwise physically qualified under 49               individuals from the requirement in the
                                                0053; FMCSA–2015–0056; FMCSA–                           CFR 391.41; (2) each driver must                      Federal Motor Carrier Safety
                                                2015–0070; FMCSA–2015–0071;                             provide a copy of the ophthalmologist’s               Regulations (FMCSRs) that interstate
                                                FMCSA–2015–0072; FMCSA–2015–                            or optometrist’s report to the Medical                commercial motor vehicle (CMV)
                                                0344. Their exemptions are applicable                   Examiner at the time of the annual                    drivers have ‘‘no established medical
                                                as of February 9, 2018, and will expire                 medical examination; and (3) each                     history or clinical diagnosis of epilepsy
                                                on February 9, 2020.                                    driver must provide a copy of the                     or any other condition which is likely
                                                  As of February 12, 2018, and in                       annual medical certification to the                   to cause loss of consciousness or any
                                                accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and                  employer for retention in the driver’s                loss of ability to control a CMV.’’ The
                                                31315, the following six individuals                    qualification file or keep a copy of his/             exemptions enable these individuals
                                                have satisfied the renewal conditions for               her driver’s qualification if he/she is               who have had one or more seizures and
                                                obtaining an exemption from the vision                  self-employed. The driver must also                   are taking anti-seizure medication to
                                                requirement in the FMCSRs for                           have a copy of the exemption when                     continue to operate CMVs in interstate
                                                interstate CMV drivers (81 FR 1474; 81                  driving, for presentation to a duly                   commerce.
                                                FR 48493):                                              authorized Federal, State, or local                   DATES: The exemptions were applicable
                                                Charles H. Baim (PA)                                    enforcement official. The exemption                   on December 23, 2017. The exemptions
                                                Dana L. Colberg (OR)                                    will be rescinded if: (1) The person fails            expire on December 23, 2019.
                                                Joseph T. Saba (MN)                                     to comply with the terms and                          Comments must be received on or
                                                LeRoy W. Scharkey (MN)                                  conditions of the exemption; (2) the                  before March 19, 2018.
                                                Walton W. Smith (VA)                                    exemption has resulted in a lower level               ADDRESSES: You may submit comments
                                                Aaron D. Tillman (DE)                                   of safety than was maintained before it               bearing the Federal Docket Management
                                                  The drivers were included in docket                   was granted; or (3) continuation of the               System (FDMS) Docket No. FMCSA–
                                                number FMCSA–2015–0347. Their                           exemption would not be consistent with                2006–25854; FMCSA–2013–0108;
                                                exemptions are applicable as of                         the goals and objectives of 49 U.S.C.                 FMCSA–2014–0382; using any of the
                                                February 12, 2018, and will expire on                   31136(e) and 31315.                                   following methods:
sradovich on DSK3GMQ082PROD with NOTICES




                                                February 12, 2020.                                      V. Preemption                                           • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to
                                                  As of February 22, 2018, and in                                                                             http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the
                                                accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and                     During the period the exemption is in              online instructions for submitting
                                                31315, the following two individuals                    effect, no State shall enforce any law or             comments.
                                                have satisfied the renewal conditions for               regulation that conflicts with this                     • Mail: Docket Management Facility;
                                                obtaining an exemption from the vision                  exemption with respect to a person                    U.S. Department of Transportation, 1200
                                                requirement in the FMCSRs for                           operating under the exemption.                        New Jersey Avenue SE, West Building


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Document Created: 2018-02-15 00:20:56
Document Modified: 2018-02-15 00:20:56
CategoryRegulatory Information
CollectionFederal Register
sudoc ClassAE 2.7:
GS 4.107:
AE 2.106:
PublisherOffice of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration
SectionNotices
ActionNotice of renewal of exemptions; request for comments.
DatesEach group of renewed exemptions were applicable on the dates stated in the discussions below and will expire on the dates stated in the discussions below. Comments must be received on or before March 19, 2018.
ContactMs. Christine A. Hydock, Chief, Medical Programs Division, 202-366-4001, [email protected], FMCSA, Department of Transportation, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Room W64-224, Washington, DC 20590-0001. Office hours are from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., e.t., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. If you have questions regarding viewing or submitting material to the docket, contact Docket Services, telephone (202) 366-9826.
FR Citation83 FR 6925 

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