COVID-19 Update Hub

THE LATEST

ATA coalition challenges Biden Administration's vaccine-or-test mandate before the U.S. Supreme Court

1.7.21

The Supreme Court heard oral arguments today on our request to stay the Biden Administration’s COVID vax-or-test mandate on businesses with more than 100 employees. Here’s a quick recap of events that led ATA’s legal challenge to the highest court in the land:

Nov. 5, 2021: The Occupational Safety and Health Administration published its Emergency Temporary Standard requiring all businesses with 100 or more employees to get their workers vaccinated or tested weekly.

Nov. 10, 2021: ATA, joined by the state trucking associations from Texas, Louisiana and Mississippi, as well as a coalition of business groups, filed suit in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, asking the court to stay and ultimately vacate the mandate.

Other members of our coalition include the Food Marketing Institute, the International Warehouse Logistics Association, the National Association of Convenience Stores, the National Retail Federation, the National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors and the National Federation of Independent Business.

Nov. 16, 2021: ATA’s challenge is consolidated with other similar suits nationwide and reassigned to U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit. The Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and Tennessee Trucking Associations also joined our challenge.

Dec. 17, 2021: In a 2-1 decision, the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals lifted the stay on the mandate. In response, ATA immediately filed an emergency application to the U.S. Supreme Court to reinstate the stay.

Dec. 21, 2021: The Supreme Court announces it will hear oral arguments on our emergency application on January 7.
Why Friday’s proceedings are notable: Of the 14 or so emergency applications, ours is only one of two that the Supreme Court chose to hear oral arguments on. This presumably reflects the Court’s recognition that the seriousness of our arguments and our presentation of the issues makes our application the best vehicle for resolving this complex matter.

Timing and Deadlines: While the Supreme Court is free to issue its decision at any time, we expect them to do so quickly in this case, in light of the current January 10 enforcement deadline for the initial phase of the ETS (with full testing requirements for unvaccinated employees set for enforcement on February 9). For more information and resources, check out our updated COVID vaccine mandate toolkit for ATA member companies.

Biden Administration broadens COVID-19 vaccination requirements throughout the private sector

9.9.21

As reported widely in the news today, the White House announced plans to require employers with more than 100 workers to ensure their employees are vaccinated, or test each unvaccinated employee for the virus weekly, affecting about 80 million Americans.The emergency rule will also require paid time off for vaccination or recovery from side effects post-vaccination. A separate provision also requires vaccination for all employees of federal contractors— with no option to test out. The order also provides that booster shots will be available for all eligible Americans who have already been vaccinated.

The various requirements for employers are not immediate, however. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration will need some time to develop its emergency rule for businesses with over 100 employees. It is also worth noting that OSHA emergency rules do not have a great track record when courts review them, so they will need to carefully consider costs and benefits. As part of that process, ATA will ensure that OSHA and the White House understand the implications of the rule to our supply chain, each ATA member and all our employees.

Today’s announcement also addresses other issues related to schools and additional support for small business, among other things, and is available here: President Biden's COVID-19 Plan | The White House. We will keep you posted on developments as we learn more.

Biden Administration broadens COVID-19 vaccination requirements throughout the private sector

9.9.21

FMCSA extends Emergency Declaration through November 30

8.31.21

The declaration provides regulatory relief regarding maximum driving time and applies only to commercial motor vehicle operations involved directly in COVID-19 relief efforts, including but not limited to the transportation of:

Vaccines
Medical supplies and equipment;
Livestock and livestock feed; and
Food, paper products, and other groceries for emergency restocking.

Additional commodities covered under the newest declaration include:

Gasoline;
Diesel;
Jet fuel;
Ethyl alcohol; and
Supplies to assist individuals impacted by the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, such as building materials for displaced individuals.

FMCSA also extended its waiver regarding the validity of CDLs, CLPs and certain medical certificates. CDL and CLP holders, and interstate drivers operating CMVs with credentials that expired on or after March 1, 2020, now have until November 30 to renew these credentials. Drivers whose medical certification or medical variance expired on or after June 1, 2021 also have until November 30 to renew.

This is not a blanket exemption from the CLP, CDL, and/or Medical Certificate requirements. Drivers and carriers should review the waiver details and check with SDLAs to ensure their operations qualify. Some states have indicated they will not extend the expiration periods to match FMCSA’s waiver.

Furthermore, FMCSA extended its waiver giving third-party CDL skills test examiners the ability to administer the CDL knowledge test, so long as the examiner has maintained their CDL test examiner certification and has previously completed a CDL skills test examiner training course.

Finally, FMCSA extended its waiver (1) allowing a CLP holder, who has passed the CDL skills test but has not yet received credentials, to be accompanied by a CDL holder seated anywhere in-cab while the CLP holder operates a CMV, and (2) waiving restrictions that limit states to administering a driving skills test to a non-domiciled CDL applicant who has taken driver training in that state.

FMCSA extends Emergency Declaration through August 31

6.1.21

The extension includes the same regulatory relief for motor carriers and drivers providing direct assistance in support of relief efforts related to COVID-19, as included in the previous declaration that was set to expire on May 31.

The renewed declaration is limited to the transportation of:

Livestock and livestock feed;
Medical supplies and equipment related to the testing, diagnosis, and treatment of COVID-19;
Vaccines, constituent products, and medical supplies and equipment, including ancillary supplies/kits for the administration of vaccines, related to the prevention of COVID-19;
Supplies and equipment necessary for community safety, sanitation, and prevention of community transmission of COVID-19 such as masks, gloves, hand sanitizer, soap, and disinfectants; and
Food, paper products, and other groceries for emergency restocking of distribution centers or stores.

The extended declaration became effective at 12:00 a.m. on June 1, and expires on August 31, 2021.

FMCSA says it will review the status of this and other emergency regulatory relief — including CDL, CLP and medical card validity extensions — on July 1 and may take action to modify or terminate if conditions warrant.

Update on mask requirements for team drivers

4.8.21

In February, ATA submitted a letter to the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention requesting they revise their guidance on mask requirements for team drivers. We are pleased to see that DOT has provided updated guidance on this issue:

Does the CDC Order apply to team truck drivers while they are in the cab of the truck?

Team drivers are not required to wear a mask in the cab of a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) if the vehicle occupants are individuals who all live in the same household and are the only persons in the vehicle. The CDC recently issued guidance expanding the exemption for solo drivers to include driving teams from the same household.

While the new guidance may not apply to all team operations, it’s a step in the right direction, and we are happy to see CDC respond to our request.

Two state vaccine updates: NV and SC

3.2.21

The Southern Nevada Health District announced it will now begin vaccinating members of essential workforce sectors that include supply chain/logistics and transportation. According to the Nevada Trucking Assoc., currently the best place to get an appointment is in North Las Vegas. Be sure to specify essential status when making an appointment and prepare to bring a credential such as paystub or badge.

South Carolina announced in a press release today that, given current vaccine supply levels, the state will transition to Phase1c on approx. April 12. Phase 1c covers essential workers including commercial drivers.

More info on other states can be found on our vaccine page.

Trucking calls on CDC to permit mobile vaccination sites at truck stops

2.25.21

In an effort to ensure vaccines are easily available for truckers across the country, ATA has partnered with NATSO and other associations pushing for truck stops and travel plazas to be used as mobile vaccination sites for professional truck drivers and truck stop employees.

ATA sent this letter to the Centers for Disease Control yesterday emphasizing the importance of our industry and the difficulties drivers may have in returning to their state of domicile in order to receive the vaccine. Beyond designating truck stops as distribution sites, we’ve asked the CDC to allow a driver to receive the vaccine in a state other than the one they reside in, as well as the second dose based on the currently available dual-dose vaccines.

FMCSA extends CDL/CLP and Medical Examination Waivers

2.17.21

Today FMCSA issued another extension to the previous CDL/CLP and Medical Examination waivers that were set to expire the end of this month. This waiver becomes effective on March 1 and expires on May 31, 2021. Please read the specific provisions below, as the dates and applicability vary.

As with the previous extensions, state drivers licensing agencies have the authority to exercise discretion in extending these dates, consistent with the outline below. Carriers and drivers should check with the SDLA to confirm their state’s expiration periods.

For CDL/CLP Drivers, the waiver will:

Waive until May 31, 2021, the maximum period of CDL validity for CDLs due for renewal on or after March 1, 2020;
Waive until May 31, 2021, the maximum period of CLP validity for CLPs that are due for renewal on or after March 1, 2020, without requiring the CLP holders to retake the general and endorsement knowledge tests; and
Waive until May 31, 2021, the requirement that CLP holders wait 14 days to take the CDL skills test.

Medical Requirements for CDL/CLP and non-CDL drivers:

This notice will waive, until May 31, 2021, the requirement that CDL holders, CLP holders and non-CDL drivers have a medical examination and certification, provided that they have proof of a valid medical certification and any required medical variance that were issued for a period of 90 days or longer and that expired on or after December 1, 2020.
This notice will also waive, until May 31, 2021, the requirement that, in order to maintain the medical certification status of “certified,” CDL or CLP holders provide the SDLA with an original or copy of a subsequently issued medical examiner’s certificate and any required medical variance, provided that they have proof of a valid medical certification or medical variance that expired on or after December 1, 2020.

For SDLAs:

This notice waives, until May 31, 2021, the requirement that the SDLA change the CDL or CLP holder’s medical certification status to “not certified” upon the expiration of the medical examiner’s certificate or medical variance, provided that they have proof of a valid medical certification or medical variance that expired on or after December 1, 2020. Additionally, the notice waives certain requirements with regards to SDLAs downgrading a driver’s CDL or CLP upon expiration of the medical examiner’s certificate or medical variance, provided the SDLAs have proof of a valid medical certification or medical variance that expired on or after December 1, 2020.

NOTE: In the notice, FMCSA reiterates that the extension “permits, but does not require” states to extend the validity periods and processes referenced above. This ultimately means that a SDLA may choose not to extend the validity periods, based on the operational status within their state.

The full waiver notice can be found here. Carriers and drivers should review this waiver and confirm with the SDLA to ensure all terms, conditions, and restrictions are met.

Additionally, FMCSA announced the extension of waivers related to CLP holders operating with a CDL driver in the front seat, out of state CDL applicant testing and third-party knowledge testing.

FMCSA extends emergency declaration through May 31

2.12.21

Today the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration announced an extension of the Emergency Declaration that was set to expire on February 28. This extension includes the same regulatory relief for those motor carriers and drivers providing direct assistance in support of relief efforts related to COVID-19 that was included in the previous December 1 declaration.

The declaration published today is limited to the transportation of:

Livestock and livestock feed;
Medical supplies and equipment related to the testing, diagnosis and treatment of COVID-19;
Vaccines, constituent products, and medical supplies and equipment including ancillary supplies/kits for the administration of vaccines, related to the prevention of COVID-19;
Supplies and equipment necessary for community safety, sanitation, and prevention of community transmission of COVID-19 such as masks, gloves, hand sanitizer, soap and disinfectants; and
Food, paper products and other groceries for emergency restocking of distribution centers or stores.

Please note that this extended declaration becomes effective on February 17 and expires on May 31, 2021.

Also note: the agency indicated “it is FMCSA’s intention to wind down the exemptions granted under this Emergency Declaration and related COVID-19 regulatory relief measures to the extent possible.” That likely means this may be one of the final extensions.

As with previous declarations, emergency regulatory relief is provided from parts 390 through 399 of the FMCSRs, including the hours-of-service regulations. Emergency relief does not include certain FMCSR’s related to the safe operation of CMVs, such as controlled substance and alcohol testing, financial responsibility requirements, CDL requirements, operation of a CMV while ill or fatigued, size and weight requirements and additional FMCSR’s outlined in the declaration.

ATA urges CDC to reassess mask requirements for team drivers

2.9.21

The Centers for Disease Control and the Transportation Security Administration recently issued new directives on mask requirements for the transportation industry. Although they largely apply only to public transportation, such as buses, passenger rail and other transit, there has been a lack of clarity on how exactly the directives apply to trucking.

The CDC directive specifically exempts “commercial motor vehicles or trucks as these terms are defined in 49 CFR 390.5, if the driver is the sole occupant of the vehicle or truck.” However, and unfortunately, the directives do not specifically exempt situations where a driver is with another individual, i.e., team drivers. We raised this issue during calls with FMCSA, TSA and CDC last week, and we've followed up with this letter to CDC today:

Indeed, while face coverings within the cab for non-husband and wife team drivers at all times may seem logical, the effectiveness and utility of such a broad requirement may be limited. For instance, where drivers are within a confined space for days, if not weeks, at a time, wearing a face covering for almost 24 hours a day, even while in the shared sleeper berth, is not feasible or realistic nor likely to be particularly effective in preventing transmission. ATA had previously raised these concerns to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). As a result, NIOSH removed the in cab mask requirement guidance for team truck drivers when they are part of the same household. Accordingly, ATA recommends that the current requirements not apply to team drivers as well.

You can read the entire letter here. We'll keep you updated on further developments.

Trucking industry calls for prioritized vaccine access

1.27.21

ATA and dozens of state trucking associations are calling on the CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices to reclassify truck drivers into priority group '1b' of the committee's vaccination order recommendations.

On behalf of the American Trucking Associations and the undersigned federation of state trucking associations, we write to respectfully request this committee consider reclassifying truck drivers into Phase 1b of its COVID-19 ACIP Vaccine Recommendations. The health of our nation’s truck drivers is critical to ensuring the safe and timely delivery of medicine, food, water, fuel and other basic necessities throughout the duration of this pandemic, and as truckers are now called upon to deliver vaccines across the country, it is imperative that drivers have prioritized access in order to minimize the potential for further supply chain delays and disruptions.

[....]

In many ways, truckers are the linchpin of our nation’s entire frontline response, providing daily, direct and indispensable support to all essential workers. Health care providers, first responders, corrections officers, manufacturers, grocery clerks and teachers all rely on trucks for the equipment and supplies needed to carry out their professional duties. Moreover, high-risk populations are now depending on the trucking workforce to deliver vaccine supplies to every corner of the country.

Read the letter here.

IRS issues guidance on Paycheck Protection Program deductibility

1.7.21

As expected, the IRS has released updated guidance that clarifies Paycheck Protection Program expenses are now deductible. There also was a small amount of elaboration on certain 501(c)(6) entities that now can participate in the PPP program for the first time.

I anticipate the reopening of the program will occur fairly soon, but the SBA has not released word on when the fresh $284 billion allocation will become available for PPP applications for first and second draw PPP loans. I will follow up when that data is released.

Vaccine FAQs

1.7.21

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has a primer on vaccine allocation, prioritization and timelines:

Click to view

With two vaccines now authorized for use in the U.S., ATA is actively coordinating with our federation of state trucking associations to ensure our industry has priority access to the vaccines as supplies become available. A CDC advisory panel recently recommended that transportation workers be included in group ‘1c’ – following first responders, teachers and other select frontline workers in group ‘1b.’ However, it’s important to underscore that these are only recommendations.

Decisions on vaccine access will ultimately be determined individually by each state over the coming weeks and months, and we’ll continue to work closely with our state associations to ensure governors provide our workforce with the priority access it needs to continue doing our essential work safely and efficiently through the end of this pandemic.

FMCSA Extends Emergency Declaration Through February 28

12.1.20

FMCSA has expanded and extended the duration of the COVID-19 Emergency Declaration until February 28, 2021. The original declaration was set to expire December 31, and the new one now includes a category for vaccine transportation. The announcement can be found here.

The extended and expanded emergency declaration continues to provide regulatory relief only to commercial motor vehicle operations providing direct assistance related to COVID-19 and is limited to transportation of:

1. Livestock and livestock feed;
2. Medical supplies and equipment related to the testing, diagnosis and treatment of COVID-19;
3. Vaccines, constituent products, and medical supplies and equipment including ancillary supplies/kits for the administration of vaccines, related to the prevention of COVID-19;
4. Supplies and equipment necessary for community safety, sanitation, and prevention of community transmission of COVID-19 such as masks, gloves, hand sanitizer, soap and disinfectants; and
5. Food, paper products and other groceries for emergency restocking of distribution centers or stores.

Current status of state drivers licensing agencies

11.17.20

As COVID surges continue to affect government operations differently across various states, here is a great resource courtesy the American Association of Motor Vehicle Operators. The chart tracks the operating status of SDLAs across all 50 states.

Click here to view the entire chart

TSA Extends Hazardous Materials Endorsement Exemption for Security Threat Assessment Renewals

10.29.20

After determining that states continue to encounter temporary closures in regions affected by COVID-19, the agency renewed its extension of Security Threat Assessments for Hazardous Materials Endorsements. TSA's previous notice was set to expire on October 29.

This latest waiver allows states to exempt individuals with HMEs expiring between 10/30/2020 – 12/31/2020 from having to undergo a new HME STA and allows states to extend those HMEs by up to 180 days.

Please note that HME extensions are not automatic. The extension only applies to the STA – not the issuance of an HME by state drivers licensing agencies on a Commercial Driver’s License. Drivers must initiate or complete the submission of the required information at least 60 days before the expiration of the state-granted extension date to be eligible for the extension.

The December 31 deadline for TSA’s HME STA extension aligns with several FMCSA extensions, including waivers pertaining to hours of service, and CDL, CLP, and certain medical certificate validity, among others.

Reminder: Check with your State DMV on CDL/CLP validity extension dates

10.9.20

FMCSA has revised and extended the duration of the COVID-19 Emergency Declaration until December 31, 2020. The announcement can be found here.

The extended emergency declaration continues to provide regulatory relief only to commercial motor vehicle operations providing direct assistance related to COVID-19 and is limited to transportation of:

Livestock and livestock feed;
Medical supplies and equipment related to the testing, diagnosis and treatment of COVID-19;
Supplies and equipment necessary for community safety, sanitation, and prevention of community transmission of COVID-19 such as masks, gloves, hand sanitizer, soap and disinfectants; and
Food, paper products and other groceries for emergency restocking of distribution centers or stores.

ATA encourages drivers and motor carriers to review the applicability, restrictions and limitations.

FMCSA Extends CDL/CLP Waiver

9.18.20

FMCSA announced an extension of the CDL/CLP waiver that was set to expire on September 30. This new waiver becomes effective on October 1, 2020 and will expire on December 31, 2020. However, this waiver is nuanced, so we encourage carriers to review the specific provisions below, as the dates and applicability vary.

For CDL/CLP Drivers, the waiver will:

Extend until December 31, 2020, the maximum period of CDL validity for CDLs due for renewal on or after March 1, 2020;
Extend until December 31, 2020, the maximum period of CLP validity for CLPs that are due for renewal on or after March 1, 2020, without requiring the CLP holders to retake the general and endorsement knowledge tests;
Waive until December 31, 2020, the requirement that CLP holders wait 14 days to take the CDL skills test;

Re: Medical Requirements for CDL/CLP and non-CDL drivers:

This notice will waive, in accordance with the following periods of eligibility, the requirement that CDL holders, CLP holders, and non-CDL drivers have a medical examination and certification, provided that they have proof of a valid medical certification and any required medical variance that were issued for a period of 90 days or longer:
For CDL holders, CLP holders, and non-CDL drivers whose medical certification was valid on February 29, 2020 and expired on or after March 1, 2020 but before June 1, 2020, the requirement under 49 CFR 391.45 (persons who must be medically examined and certified) is waived until October 31, 2020.
For CDL holders, CLP holders, and non-CDL drivers whose medical certification expired on or after June 1, 2020, the requirement under 49 CFR 391.45 is waived until December 31, 2020;
This notice will also waive, in accordance with the following periods of eligibility, the requirement that, in order to maintain the medical certification status of “certified,” CDL or CLP holders provide the SDLA with an original or copy of a subsequently issued medical examiner’s certificate and any required medical variance:
For CDL or CLP holders who have proof of a valid medical certification or medical variance that expired on or after March 1, 2020 but before June 1, 2020, the requirement is waived until October 31, 2020.
For CDL or CLP holders who have proof of a valid medical certification or medical variance that expired on or after June 1, 2020, the requirement is waived until December 31, 2020.

The full waiver notice can be found here. Carriers and drivers should review this waiver to ensure all terms, conditions, and restrictions are met.

Additionally, FMCSA also announced the extension of waivers related to CLP holders operating with a CDL driver in the front seat, out of state CDL Applicant testing, and third-party knowledge testing.

FMCSA Extends Emergency Declaration Through December 31

9.11.20

Remember to check with your state DMV on CDL/CLP validity extension dates. Although FMCSA extended the validity dates of CDLs and CLPs to December 31 because of ongoing scheduling delays at some state DMVs, we’ve been made aware of multiple states choosing not to extend CDL or CLP validity through the federal Dec. 31 date. Motor carriers and drivers should therefore check with their state DMVs to ensure drivers have adequate time to obtain or renew their CDLs or CLPs.

FMCSA issued its waiver last month, which applies only to credentials expiring on or after March 1, 2020. The extension was granted to give drivers and state DMVs more time to schedule appointments and clear backlogs. Consult the full terms and conditions of the waiver for more information.

FMCSA Revises, Extends Emergency Declaration Through September 14

8.12.20

FMCSA has revised and extended the duration of the COVID-19 Emergency Declaration until September 14, 2020. The original declaration was set to expire on Friday, and the new one now includes a category for food, paper products and other groceries for emergency restocking of distribution centers or stores.The announcement can be found here.

Livestock and livestock feed;
Medical supplies and equipment related to the testing, diagnosis and treatment of COVID-19;
Supplies and equipment necessary for community safety, sanitation, and prevention of community transmission of COVID-19 such as masks, gloves, hand sanitizer, soap and disinfectants; and
Food, paper products and other groceries for emergency restocking of distribution centers or stores.

ATA encourages drivers and motor carriers to review the applicability, restrictions, and limitations which are included in the exemption posted to the FMCSA’s website.

TSA extends Hazardous Materials Endorsement Security Threat Assessment exemption

7.30.20

The Transportation Security Administration is extending the Hazardous Materials Endorsement exemption for Security Threat Assessment renewals through October 29, 2020. Having determined that state driver's licensing agencies continue to encounter difficulties renewing expiring STAs for HMEs, the agency's original 180-day extension—covering March 1, and July 31, 2020— has been extended another 90 days to accommodate these unique circumstances. Drivers with expiring STAs should check with their state driver's licensing agency for more information or questions regarding their CDL validity.

UPDATE: CBP delays reopening of Trusted Traveler Program enrollment centers

7.8.20

U.S. Customs and Border Protection has announced Trusted Traveler Programs enrollment centers will remain closed until September 8, 2020, due to continuing concerns regarding the spread of COVID-19. Details concerning the closure can be found here.

Updated Hand Sanitizer Refill Locations

7.15.20

As part of ATA's ongoing #ThankATrucker campaign, we've restocked 55-gallon drums of hand sanitizer at the following locations, where truck drivers can refill their personal supplies at no cost:

Thank you to our awesome partners, OneBeacon Insurance Group, Hydro-Chem Systems, Michelin, and U.S. Bank, for their support in this effort.

FMCSA extends and modifies HOS emergency declaration through August 14

7.14.20

FMCSA has extended the duration of the COVID-19 Emergency Declaration until August 14, 2020. The original declaration was set to expire on today. The announcement can be found here.

The extended emergency declaration continues to provide regulatory relief only to commercial motor vehicle operations providing direct assistance in support of emergency relief efforts related to COVID-19 and is limited to transportation of:

Livestock and livestock feed;
Medical supplies and equipment related to the testing, diagnosis and treatment of COVID-19; and
Supplies and equipment necessary for community safety, sanitation, and prevention of community transmission of COVID-19 such as masks, gloves, hand sanitizer, soap and disinfectants.

As previously indicated during the June extension and modifications, FMCSA concluded there is no longer need for emergency relief with respect to the other categories of supplies, equipment and persons covered by the previous May 13 extension and those categories are therefore no longer covered.

UPDATE: CBP delays reopening of Trusted Traveler Program enrollment centers

7.8.20

U.S. Customs and Border Protection has announced Trusted Traveler Programs enrollment centers will remain closed until August 10, 2020, due to continuing concerns regarding the spread of COVID-19. Details concerning the closure can be found here.

Paycheck Protection Program extended through August 8

7.6.20

On July 4, President Trump signed into law an extension of the popular small business loan program. Employers now have until August 8 to apply for the federal loans, which can be forgiven if businesses use at least 60% of the funds to maintain payroll.

Out of the $660 billion that Congress allocated for PPP, roughly $130 billion in funds remain untapped and available for loans. You can find more information on PPP, including how to apply, here.

Trucking exempted from new quarantine restrictions enacted by New York and Connecticut

6.25.20

New York, New Jersey and Connecticut are requiring travelers from states with high rates of COVID-19 to quarantine for 14 days. However, trucking industry workers have been deemed essential by NY and CT and are therefore exempted from the requirement. ATA staff is working to receive clarification from NJ on how its order applies to essential workforce and industry.

Update: As of 6/27, NJ has clarified that critical infrastructure workers — which includes the trucking industry — are exempt from the states quarantine order.

FMCSA extends CDL, CLP and Medical Certificate waiver through September 30

6.16.20

In response COVID-19, FMCSA has issued a waiver from certain regulations applicable to interstate and intrastate commercial driver’s license and commercial learner’s permit holders, which will allow drivers to extend the maximum period of CDL and CLP validity and waives several requirements related to medical certifications.

For CDL/CLP drivers, the waiver will:

Extend until September 30, 2020, the maximum period of CDL validity for CDLs due for renewal on or after March 1, 2020;
Extend until September 30, 2020, the maximum period of CLP validity for CLPs that are due for renewal on or after March 1, 2020, without requiring the CLP holders to retake the general and endorsement knowledge tests;
Waive the requirement that CLP holders wait 14 days to take the CDL skills test;
Waive the requirement that CDL holders, CLP holders, and non- CDL drivers have a medical examination and certification, provided that they have proof of a valid medical certification and any required medical variance that were issued for a period of 90 days or longer and that expired on or after March 1, 2020; and
Waive the requirement that, in order to maintain the medical certification status of “certified,” CDL or CLP holders provide SDLAs with an original or copy of a subsequently issued medical examiner’s certificate and any required medical variance, provided that they have proof of a valid medical certification or medical variance that expired on or after March 1, 2020.

For State Driver Licensing Agencies (SDLAs), FMCSA will also:

Waive the requirement that SDLAs change the CDL or CLP holder’s medical certification status to “not certified” upon the expiration of the medical examiner’s certificate or medical variance, provided that the CDL or CLP holders have proof of a valid medical certification or medical variance that expired on or after March 1, 2020; and
Waive the requirements that SDLAs initiate a CDL or CLP downgrade upon the expiration of the medical examiner’s certificate or medical variance, provided that the CDL or CLP holders have proof of a valid medical certification or medical variance that expired on or after March 1, 2020.

The waiver is effective July 1, 2020 and expires on September 30, 2020. The full notice can be found here. Carriers should review the waiver to ensure all terms, conditions and restrictions are met.

FMCSA extends and modifies HOS emergency declaration through July 14

6.9.20

FMCSA has modified and extended the duration of the COVID-19 Emergency Declaration until July 14, 2020. The original declaration was set to expire on Sunday, June 14. The announcement can be found here.

Of note, the modified and extended emergency declaration provides regulatory relief only to commercial motor vehicle operations providing direct assistance in support of emergency relief efforts related to COVID-19 and is limited to transportation of:

Livestock and livestock feed;
Medical supplies and equipment related to the testing, diagnosis and treatment of COVID-19; and
Supplies and equipment necessary for community safety, sanitation, and prevention of community transmission of COVID-19 such as masks, gloves, hand sanitizer, soap and disinfectants.

FMCSA concluded there is no longer need for emergency relief with respect to the other categories of supplies, equipment and persons covered by the previous May 13 extension and those categories are therefore no longer covered as of June 14 at 11:59 p.m. ET.

Congress expands Paycheck Protection Program

6.4.20

Congress has taken action to remove some of the restrictions surrounding the Paycheck Protection Program, which make the program more flexible and enhance its appeal to businesses seeking federal loans. On Wednesday, the Senate passed the PPP Flexibility Act, and the House passed it last week by a vote of 417-1. These tallies show the high level of bipartisan support behind improving PPP in both chambers.

A short summary of changes:

The legislation extends the duration of PPP loans to 24 weeks from eight weeks
Extends the deadline to rehire workers to Dec. 31 to qualify for loan forgiveness. However, the forgivable amount must be determined without regard to a reduction in the number of employees if the recipient is (1) unable to rehire former employees and is unable to hire similarly qualified employees, or (2) unable to return to the same level of business activity due to compliance with federal requirements or guidance related to COVID-19.
The bill reduces the level of Paycheck Protection Program funds that must be used for payroll to 60% from 75% for full loan forgiveness.
Recipients who do not apply for forgiveness shall have 10 months from the program's expiration to begin making payments.
The bill also eliminates a provision that makes a paycheck protection loan recipient who has such indebtedness forgiven ineligible to defer payroll tax payments.
The minimum maturity of the payback will now be five years instead of two.

The legislation now heads to President Trump's desk. If signed into law, the program may see an increased level of applications. As of this week, roughly $510 billion of the $660 billion authorized by Congress has been lent, and nearly 4.5 million loans have been issued.

For more info on PPP, including how to apply, visit our page here.

U.S. Northern and Southern borders to remain partially closed -- but still OPEN to truck traffic

5.20.20

The Department of Homeland Security has extended its decision to partially closed to "non-essential" travel, which initially took effect on 3/21/20 and is now effective through 6/22/20. However, freight and truck traffic continues to be deemed essential. All trucks and all loads are permitted to continue to cross borders.

In its declaration, CBP enumerates examples of essential travel, which include but are not limited to:

U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents returning to the United States;
Individuals traveling for medical purposes (e.g., to receive medical treatment in the United States);
Individuals traveling to attend educational institutions;
Individuals traveling to work in the United States (e.g., individuals working in the farming or agriculture industry who must travel between the United States and Canada in furtherance of such work);
Individuals traveling for emergency response and public health purposes (e.g., government officials or emergency responders entering the United States to support Federal, state, local, tribal, or territorial government efforts to respond to COVID-19 or other emergencies);
Individuals engaged in lawful cross-border trade (e.g., truck drivers supporting the movement of cargo between the United States and Canada);
Individuals engaged in official government travel or diplomatic travel;
Members of the U.S. Armed Forces, and the spouses and children of members of the U.S.Armed Forces, returning to the United States; and
Individuals engaged in military-related travel or operations.

For more information and other COVID-related federal declarations:

Federal Declarations and Waivers

#ThankATrucker photo contest winners announced

5.13.20

Congrats Robert Lee Johnson, Jr. and George Maltby, our May 13 winners of the #ThankATrucker: Providing for the Frontline photo contest! Each will receive a $25 gift card to expense meals while on the road.

Learn more about the campaign and enter your chance to win here.

FMCSA extends Emergency Declaration until June 14

5.13.20

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration announced today that the agency's COVID-19 Emergency Declaration has been extended until June 14. The original declaration was set to expire on this Friday.

The announcement can be found here. All of the requirements and applicability outlined in the original and expanded declaration remain in effect, and have not changed.

DOL recaps COVID sick and family leave law

5.12.20

In a recent blog post — Are You Eligible for COVID-19 Paid Leave? — the Department of Labor provides a succinct summary of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act's paid sick and family leave eligibility requirements:

If your company has more than 50 but fewer than 500 employees, an employee may be eligible for:

Paid sick leave up to two weeks or 80 hours at the employee’s regular rate or the minimum wage (whichever is higher),* if one of these scenarios applies:

They’re under a government quarantine or stay-at-home order.

They’ve been advised by a health care provider to self-quarantine.

They’re seeking a diagnosis for COVID-19 symptoms.

Paid sick leave up to two weeks or 80 hours at 2/3 of the employee’s regular rate or the minimum wage (whichever is higher),* if either scenario applies:

They’re caring for somebody under quarantine or a stay-at-home order.

They’re caring for their child whose school, child care provider, or place of care is unavailable due to COVID-19.

Paid family leave up to 10 additional weeks at 2/3 of the employee’s regular rate,* if both criteria apply:

They’re caring for their child whose school, child care provider, or place of care is unavailable due to COVID-19; and

They’ve been employed at least 30 calendar days.

*Paid leave is capped at specific maximum amounts per worker.

More detailed information on these provisions can be found in our COVID-19 Update Hub here.

CDC expands COVID-19 guidance for long-haul truckers

5.12.20

The Centers and Disease Control and Prevention issued new recommendations for OTR truck drivers to reduce exposure to the coronavirus while on the road and help slow the spread of COVID-19.

As a long-haul truck driver, how can I protect myself and slow the spread?

As a long-haul truck driver, you spend many hours alone in the cab of your truck. However, there are times when you will be at increased risk of exposure to COVID-19. For long-haul truck drivers, potential sources of exposure include having close contact with truck stop attendants, store workers, dock workers, other truck drivers, or others with COVID-19, and touching your nose, mouth, or eyes after contacting surfaces touched or handled by a person with COVID-19.

The expanded guidance includes distancing, cab cleaning, PPE and hand-hygiene protocols, among other measures. You can find the information on CDC's website here.

The Way Forward

5.8.20

Beyond the staggering human toll, the coronavirus has left a devastating trail of economic destruction in its wake—and its impact continues to spread. Before the pandemic swept the globe, America was sliding into a deepening infrastructure crisis, but COVID-19 has now brought it full bore:

Keep Reading

New hand sanitizer refill stations up and running

5.5.20

As reported last week, we at ATA have partnered with Protective Insurance Company to distribute ten 55-gallon drums of hand sanitizer at locations along major freight corridors. Drums are now in place at the following locations, where drivers can refill their personal supplies at no cost.

Alabama
Scale House on I-20E
Heflin, Alabama

Colorado
Travel Centers of America
5101 Quebec St
Commerce City, Colorado

Indiana
Stoops Freightliner-Quality Trailer
1851 West, Thompson Rd
Indianapolis, Indiana

Iowa
Iowa 80 Truckstop Fuel Center
390 W Iowa 80 Rd
Walcott, Iowa

Ohio
Jet Express
4518 Webster Street
Dayton, Ohio

Pennsylvania
Sideling Hill Rest Stop
PA Turnpike Milepost 172.4 East & West Bound
Waterfall, Pennsylvania

New Jersey
Molly Pitcher Rest Area
Exit 8A NJ Turnpike

Texas
Loves Travel Center #719
1610 Cotton Gin Road
Troy, Texas

Flying J #726
I-20, Exit 472
7425 Bonnie View Rd
Dallas, Texas

Many thanks to Protective Insurance Company for supplying the sanitizer, and to ABF Freight for helping haul and distribute the drums.

Nationwide efforts to distribute PPE to frontline truckers continue

5.1.20

FMCSA has procured more than one million protective masks and is now working with industry partners to distribute them to truckers, with drops happening today in Indiana and Georgia.

💪🚛🇺🇸Great work being done to supply our frontline heroes. 1M masks for truckers from @fema @FMCSA now being distributed across the country. TY @POTUS @USDOT @DHSgov & many partners on the ground helping to distro.

Dates and locations available here: https://t.co/RpeJZM12CU https://t.co/u1UidpASqp
— American Trucking (@TRUCKINGdotORG) May 1, 2020

A list of distribution locations, dates and time can be found courtesy FMCSA here.

Some 800,000 masks are being distributed across Arkansas, California, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Nebraska, New York and Texas. Also, 200,000 masks are being delivered directly to carriers to distribute to drivers. By @eleanorannlamb. @FMCSA #truckers https://t.co/yFzMiRn3dE
— Transport Topics (@TransportTopics) April 30, 2020

As reported Tuesday, we at ATA have partnered with Protective Insurance Company and ABF Freight to distribute 550 gallon of hand sanitizer at stops along major freight corridors, where drivers can refill their personal supplies at no cost. Drums are currently in place in Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania and New Jersey, with the remaining load scheduled for delivery next week.

DOL and Treasury issue COVID-19 relief and guidance for retirement and health insurance plans

4.29.20

First, the Departments of Labor and Treasury have extended certain time frames regarding healthcare coverage, portability and continuation of group health plan coverage under COBRA, and have extended the time for plan participants to make benefit claims or appeals. Read the notice here.

Second, EBSA Disaster Relief Notice 2020-01 extends the time for employers to provide various notices and disclosures as long as good faith efforts are made, including allowing the use of electronic communications where appropriate. The notice also includes compliance assistance guidance on plan loans, participant contributions and loan payments, blackout notices, Form 5500 and Form M-1 filing relief, and other general compliance guidance on ERISA fiduciary responsibilities.

Lastly, DOL also issued a set of FAQs on health and retirement benefit issues to assist employee benefit plan participants and beneficiaries, plan sponsors and employers impacted by the coronavirus outbreak.

How is the Coronavirus Pandemic Impacting Your Company?

4.29.20

American Trucking Associations is seeking data that captures COVID-19's impact on the trucking industry, including motor carriers, private carriers, suppliers and other allied companies. The insights gained from this survey will support our advocacy efforts as we work with Congress and the Administration to advance policies that benefit trucking.

All responses to this survey will be kept strictly confidential and will only be reported in aggregate form. Due to the sensitivity of this research, under NO circumstances will we release any of your personal or organizational information.

TAKE SURVEY

FMCSA distributing one million protective masks to commercial truck drivers

4.29.20

Working with states, industry stakeholders and motor carriers, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is distributing one million protective masks to truckers across the country. Distribution locations can be found on FMCSA's website here, with planned dates and times to be added as they're established.

Hand sanitizer refill stations now in place in IN, OH, PA & NJ

4.26.20

ATA is partnering with Protective Insurance Company to distribute ten 55-gallon drums of hand sanitizer, produced by Hotel Tango Distillery, to various locations along major freight corridors. Drivers will be able to use these drums, at no charge, to refill their personal supply bottles. The drums are now being hauled by ATA’s Share the Road and Workforce Heroes tractor-trailers and are now in place at the following locations, with more to follow this week:

CDC expands list of potential COVID-19 symptoms

4.25.20

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has expanded its list of possible symptoms associated with exposure to coronavirus. From cdc.gov:

People with COVID-19 have had a wide range of symptoms reported – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness.

These symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus:

Fever

Cough

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Chills

Repeated shaking with chills

Muscle pain

Headache

Sore throat

New loss of taste or smell

New tranche of funding for Paycheck Protection Program on its way

4.24.20

The latest round of COVID-19 relief legislation was signed into law today, which contains $310 billion in new funding for the Paycheck Protection Program. The federal small-business lending program first went into effect in April as part of Congress’ “Phase Three” relief bill, but quickly exhausted funds due to a high volume of applications.

From Treasury and SBA:

The Small Business Administration will resume accepting PPP loan applications on Monday, April 27 at 10:30AM EDT from approved lenders on behalf of any eligible borrower. This will ensure that SBA has properly coded the system to account for changes made by the legislation.

If your fleet has an existing PPP loan application with your lender that’s yet to materialize, or if the program’s funding lapsed before your loan application was processed, we recommend you directly contact your lender now to confirm the status of your application. In light of the supplemental funding from Congress, many banks are now processing existing applications while still anticipating new applications. Regulations prohibit receiving multiple PPP loans.

More about PPP and other financial assistance options for carriers here.

550 gallons of hand sanitizer, 100K face coverings being distributed to drivers and fleets

4.24.20

ATA is partnering with Protective Insurance Company to distribute ten 55-gallon drums of hand sanitizer, produced by Hotel Tango Distillery, to various locations along major freight corridors. Drivers will be able to use these drums, at no charge, to refill their personal supply bottles. The drums are now being hauled by ATA’s Share the Road and Workforce Heroes tractor-trailers, and we’ll be publishing the refill station locations early next week.

ATA has also secured 100,000 face coverings at bulk rate, which are offered at cost via ATA Business Solutions.

ICYMI: Coronavirus can't stop America's truckers

4.22.20

Tucker Carlson paid tribute to America's truckers on his primetime national TV program:

"America has only avoided collapse -- not an exaggeration -- because of one group: millions of truck drivers, who are continuing to keep this economic engine running and its stores full."

ICYMI: Drivers reflect on their White House experience

4.16.20

After last week's event at the White House honoring America's truckers, three Road Team Captains spoke to the media about their experience.

Tina Peterson, FedEx:

Stephen Richardson, Big G Express:

Charlton Paul, UPS:

President Trump: "Thank God for Truckers"

4.16.20

That was the message from the President of the United States, broadcasted globally from the world's biggest stage. Yesterday, ATA joined President Trump on the South Lawn of the White House for an event honoring America's truckers for their heroism, patriotism and service throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

THANK GOD FOR TRUCKERS! pic.twitter.com/PNLPAkhNUK
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) April 17, 2020

"At a time of widespread shutdowns, truck drivers form the lifeblood of our economy -- and the absolute lifeblood. For days, and sometimes weeks on end, truck drivers leave their homes and deliver supplies that American families need and count on during this national crisis and at all other times. They’re always there. Their routes connect every farm, hospital, manufacturer, business, and community in the country.

"In the war against the virus, American truckers are the foot soldiers who are really carrying us to victory....

"To every trucker listening over the radio or behind the wheel, I know I speak for the 330 million-plus Americans that we say: Thank God for truckers. That’ll be our theme: Thank God for truckers."

- President Trump

Find more photos and videos from the event here.

TSA Exempts Expired TWIC Cards Through July 31

4.14.20

From Transport Topics:

The Transportation Security Administration has granted a temporary exemption for the expiration of Transportation Worker Identification Credentials through July 31 for cards that expired after March 1.

The temporary exemption, announced April 14, is intended to minimize the spread of COVID-19 during the nationwide emergency.

TSA's notice can be found here.

New Blog: 3 Keys for America's Governors in the COVID-19 Fight

4.14.20

Our latest blog post takes a look at the role governors are playing in this national effort and details concrete steps they can take to aid the safe and efficient movement of trucks during this emergency.

Hasty government decisions, however well-intentioned, made without input from our industry can easily be the difference that prevents trucks getting from A to B. Last week, in Utah, Governor Herbert issued an executive order requiring anyone entering the state to stop and fill out an electronic survey documenting their medical history and where they’ve been over the prior two weeks. Receiving a mandatory survey on their cell phone raises a litany of questions and concerns, distracting and delaying truck drivers from getting to their destination. What is the right answer, what is the wrong answer? Is there a legal element, or an enforcement element, to these questions?

Officials from the Federal Highway Administration and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration contacted the Governor’s office, and working with our federation partners at the Utah Trucking Association, we reached out to the state’s transportation officials to convey the unintended consequences of this proposal. Shortly thereafter, the Governor resolved the matter by creating a carveout from the order for truckers.

Find the whole post here.

Cross-Border: Truck drivers exempted from British Columbia's border restrictions

4.13.20

The government of British Columbia has declared a state of emergency requiring international travelers reentering B.C. to self-isolate for a period of 14 days. However, truck drivers are exempted by law from this requirement. Workers exempt under Canada's federal Quarantine Act include:

Asymptomatic people in the trade and transportation sector who are important for the movement of goods and people, including:

Truck drivers

Asymptomatic people who have to cross the border regularly to go to work, including:

Health care sector

Critical infrastructure workers