Sleepy Trucker Seeks Interstate Hauling Exemption from FMCSA
Published Date: 2/20/2026
Notice
Summary
The FMCSA got a request from someone with idiopathic hypersomnia, a sleep condition, asking to be allowed to drive big trucks across state lines. If approved, this person can keep working while getting medical treatment, but the public has until March 23, 2026, to share their thoughts. This doesn’t change rules for everyone, just this one case, and there’s no cost impact announced.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Exemption Request: Truck Driver with Sleep Disorder
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) received an application from one commercial driver, Michael Tralies, who has been diagnosed with idiopathic hypersomnia and is receiving medical treatment. If FMCSA grants the exemption from 49 CFR 391.41(b)(8), this individual would be allowed to operate commercial motor vehicles in interstate commerce while treated; the public may comment on the request through March 23, 2026.
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