IKE ALERT: Texas sets trucking waivers for relief effort

Included in Gov. Rick Perry's plan is the suspension of size and weight enforcement for carriers and of Hours of Service limits for drivers involved in Hurrican Ike relief efforts in Texas.

The Trucker Staff

9/11/2008

AUSTIN — Attention Texas truckers. In addition to a state disaster proclamation, Texas Gov. Rick Perry has outlined special conditions for motor carriers involved in relief and recovery efforts with regard to Hurricane Ike.

Included in the governor’s plan is the suspension of size and weight enforcement for carriers and of Hours of Service limits for drivers involved in relief efforts.

All requirements concerning Motor Carrier Registration, Unified Carrier Registration, the International Registration Plan and the International Fuel Tax Agreement are suspended for motor carriers traveling within or into Texas to assist with response and relief efforts. Requirements are also suspended regarding the purchase of trip permits for registration and fuel for commercial motor carriers engaged in interstate disaster relief efforts, the Texas Motor Transport Association reports.

Oversize/overweight permitting and fee requirements are also suspended during the waiver period, which Perry initially has set to run to Oct. 7.

To see the TMTA alert and Perry’s letter, click here.

In addition, a re-entry letter has been prepared for use in response to Hurricane Ike, according to TMTA. The letter is necessary for all transportation carriers delivering essential equipment or supplies needed to assist disaster victims or restore critical facilities and services.

The letter permits the bearer to enter areas affected by disaster in order to carry out response and recovery tasks. Those assisting in relief efforts must have the letter with them.

For a copy of the letter and instructions from TMTA, click here.