The FMCSA staff extend their deepest sympathies to the victims of Hurricanes Wilma, Rita, and Katrina, and thanks to those in the industry helping to restore normalcy and hope in these areas.

• FMCSA Relief from Regulations Extended Through 12/30/05; Texas Governor's Declaration of Emergency Renewed
• President's Statement on Federal Disaster Assistance for Florida from Hurricane Wilma
• Florida Governor Declares State of Emergency After Hurricane Wilma

FMCSA is providing the following information to assist motor carriers and drivers in understanding how the aftermath of Hurricanes Wilma, Rita and Katrina may affect their transportation operations.

Emergency Declaration Information

To provide vital supplies and transportation services to the disaster area in the United States, emergency declarations were issued by the President, Governors of States, and by FMCSA. These declarations triggered the temporary suspension of certain Federal safety regulations, including Hours-of-Service (HOS), for motor carriers and drivers engaged in specific locations and aspects of the emergency relief effort.

Relief from Federal safety regulations is limited to a maximum of 30 days, unless extended by FMCSA itself. In order to be in full compliance with all declarations, be sure to read the definitions of "emergency" and "emergency relief."

The table below reflects current available relief.

Refer to the frequently asked questions (FAQ) for more information.

Questions:

If you have any questions regarding the emergency exemptions identified in CFR 49 Part 390.23 of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Regulations please contact local FMCSA Division Office .

As always, FMCSA urges all truck drivers and motor carriers providing relief to exercise their best judgment regarding safety.

Details on Affected Rules and Information   Temporary Relief of HOS and Other Federal and State Regulations Coordination of Relief Efforts Español   Agua: Desinfección de emergencia Asistencia para víctimas CDC en Español Cruz Roja Americana

Federal Links   The White House Hurricane Relief White House Fact Sheet USA.gov Hurricane Recovery USA.gov Katrina Telephone Hotline Frequently Asked Questions FMCSA Field Offices FEMA Resources for Hurricane Katrina Letter from the President to the Speaker of the House of Representatives Related Links   Hurricane Relief Information Center Protect Yourself from Moving Scams CFR 49 Part 390.23 Archived News Releases