Fireworks Drivers Dodge Rules for July 4th—FMCSA Lights the Fuse!
Published Date: 6/26/2025
Notice
Summary
The FMCSA is renewing special rules for 44 American Pyrotechnics Association companies during Independence Day. These drivers can skip some off-duty time when tracking their hours and use paper logs instead of electronic ones. This change keeps things safe and helps fireworks companies work smoothly during busy holiday times without extra costs or delays.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
14‑Hour Limit Off‑Duty Exclusion
For drivers working for 44 American Pyrotechnics Association member companies during designated Independence Day periods, off‑duty and sleeper berth time of any length can be excluded when calculating the 14‑hour on‑duty limit. This lets those drivers count fewer hours toward the 14‑hour limit during the holiday periods.
Paper Logs Instead of ELDs
During designated Independence Day periods, drivers for the 44 APA member companies may use paper records of duty status (RODS) instead of electronic logging devices (ELDs). This allows those drivers and companies to avoid ELD use for those holiday operations.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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