Sen. Deb Fischer (R., Neb.) recently introduced legislation that would provide greater flexibility in the transportation of livestock and livestock feed. The Haulers of Agriculture & Livestock Safety (HAULS) Act addresses the Hours-of-Service (HOS) rules, which govern the amount of time commercial truckers can drive their loads and when they are required to rest between drives.

The HAULS Act would: (1) eliminate the requirement that agricultural and livestock HOS exemptions apply only during state-designated planting and harvesting seasons, (2) amend and clarify the definition of “agricultural commodities” to include livestock and animal feed based on feedback provided by agriculture and livestock organizations and (3) authorize a 150 air-mile exemption from HOS requirements on the destination side of a haul for agricultural and livestock haulers.

The National Pork Producers Council said it strongly supports the legislation and has been working throughout the COVID-19 pandemic on HOS waivers for the transportation of livestock and livestock feed. Recently, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) extended its COVID-19 emergency declaration for HOS waivers through the end of the year, ensuring the continuity of the U.S. pork supply chain. 

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The National Cattlemen’s Beef Assn. (NCBA) also applauded the introduction of the legislation.

"For years, livestock haulers and producers were unduly burdened with Hours-of-Service regulations that do not take into account the unique difficulties that these drivers face every day," NCBA president Marty Smith said. "The COVID-19 pandemic has only further illustrated how important it is to allow these drivers to quickly and safely reach their destinations and, in turn, keep grocery store shelves stocked with beef. Thank you to Sen. Fischer for her continued work and recognition of the needs of our producers and haulers."

American Sheep Industry Assn. president Benny Cox said, “America’s sheep producers rely on safe and efficient transportation to get livestock from the farms and ranches across the country to the limited geographic areas where they can be processed. Sen. Fischer’s legislation allows producers like myself to continue to keep the supply of fresh American lamb running while ensuring the safety and welfare of our sheep and lambs during transport. The American Sheep Industry Assn. thanks Sen. Fischer for her efforts to promote American agriculture.”