Epileptics Cleared to Haul Freight: FMCSA's Risky Road Call
Published Date: 12/5/2025
Notice
Summary
The FMCSA is renewing special permissions for six truck drivers with epilepsy or seizure disorders to keep driving across state lines while on medication. These exemptions started August 13, 2025, and last until August 13, 2027. If you want to share your thoughts, you’ve got until January 5, 2026, to speak up—no extra costs involved, just a chance to have your say!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Six Drivers Granted 2-Year Exemptions
FMCSA renewed exemptions allowing six named commercial drivers with epilepsy or seizure disorders to operate interstate commercial motor vehicles from August 13, 2025 through August 13, 2027. The six individuals are Diego DaSilva (MA), Jaime Dougherty (MN), Jeffrey Douglass (ME), Derek Jazdzewski (WI), Kevin Wiggins (KY), and Stephen Wilson (PA).
Federal Preemption While Exempt
While an exemption is in effect (August 13, 2025 to August 13, 2027 for these drivers), no State may enforce any law or regulation that conflicts with the exemption with respect to a person operating under the exemption. The exemption remains valid for 2 years unless rescinded earlier by FMCSA.
Ongoing Medical and Reporting Conditions
Each renewed exemption requires the driver to remain seizure‑free, maintain stable treatment, report any seizure to FMCSA within 24 hours, submit annual treating‑physician reports and an annual medical exam, provide copies of medical certification for their qualification file, report crashes and disqualifying citations/convictions within 7 days, and submit annual certified driving records. Noncompliance can lead to rescission of the exemption.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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The FMCSA is renewing special permissions for 13 truck drivers who have epilepsy or seizure disorders, letting them keep driving big trucks across state lines while on medication. This means these drivers can continue working safely without losing their jobs. If you want to share your thoughts, you’ve got until January 5, 2026, to speak up!