Oregon Loggers are requesting to be exempted from the mandatory 30 minute break rule that was set into effect in February of 2013. The request was made by the Oregon Trucking Association on behalf of the state's timber haulers. In exchange for the break exemption, the loggers have agreed to shorten their work day, going from 14 hour days down to 12 hour days. The logging industry is already heavily regulated and stricken with environmental restrictions, especially during fire season, which runs from July-October. The association points out that the mandatory break is impeding the productivity of the industry and the HOS rules, along with the environmental time restrictions, have made it impossible for loggers to supply a sufficient number of logs to the mills. The FMCSA will allow a 30 day public comment period before making its decision. If you would to read more about the request, or would like information on how you can publicly comment on the OTA's request, please click here.
* On approved credit