Highway bill lauded for agricultural HOS exemption

The agricultural industry came out strongly in support of the House transportation bill last week after the inclusion of a clarification of the Hours of Service rules exempting certain agricultural sectors, according to CropLife.

Groups ranging from the Agricultural Retailers Association to the national Council of Farmer Cooperatives applauded the inclusion of specific language that exempts drivers who are carrying agricultural equipment from HOS compliance rules during critical periods for the industry.

Because of the timely nature of the agriculture industry, farmers rely heavily upon being able to receive certain supplies on time, and some farmers insist strict HOS rules can lead to crop losses from late delivery of important equipment, fertilizer and other materials.

"The agricultural exemption to the HOS rule is a crucial tool for transporters of agricultural products during the busiest times of the year," said Agricultural and Food Transporters Conference chairman John Whittington. "We commend the work of Chairman Mica and Congressmen Luetkemeyer and Graves for their work on moving this language one step closer towards enactment."

The bill must still pass in the Senate and go through a conference committee where the differences between the two bills will be resolved.

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