Truckers With Robot Hearts Seek Permission to Cross State Lines
Published Date: 1/15/2025
Notice
Summary
The FMCSA got requests from two people with special heart devices called ICDs who want to drive big commercial trucks across state lines. Normally, folks with certain heart problems can’t drive these trucks, but if these exemptions are approved, these drivers could hit the road again. You’ve got until February 14, 2025, to share your thoughts—no money changes yet, just a chance to speak up!
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Two Drivers Seek Exemptions to Drive
FMCSA received exemption applications from two drivers with ICDs that, if granted, would let those individuals operate commercial motor vehicles in interstate commerce. The applicants are Micos Mims (Alabama, ICD implanted March 6, 2023) and Paul Siefker (Ohio, ICD/pacemaker implanted July 6, 2020); FMCSA may grant exemptions up to 5 years, and typically grants medical exemptions for 2 years to align with medical certification. The public may comment on these petitions by February 14, 2025.
ICDs Currently Disqualify CMV Drivers
If you have an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD), federal medical advisory criteria treat ICDs as disqualifying because of the risk of syncope. The physical qualification standard in Sec. 391.41(b)(4) bars people with certain cardiovascular diagnoses from operating commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in interstate commerce.
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