FMCSA Lets Five More Medicated Drivers Haul Freight
Published Date: 5/28/2026
Notice
Summary
The FMCSA is renewing special permissions for five drivers with epilepsy or seizure disorders to keep driving commercial trucks across state lines while on medication. These exemptions started November 6, 2025, and last until November 6, 2027, helping these drivers stay on the road safely without breaking the usual no-seizure rule. This update keeps things moving smoothly for drivers and the trucking world without extra costs or delays.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Five Drivers Granted 2‑Year Exemptions
FMCSA renewed 2-year exemptions allowing five named drivers (Brian Bommer, Alex Hunter, David Kietzman, Marion Franklin Legg, and Willian Rainer) to operate commercial motor vehicles in interstate commerce despite a history of seizures while taking anti-seizure medication. Each exemption is effective November 6, 2025 and expires November 6, 2027.
Strict Medical Monitoring And Reporting
Drivers operating under these exemptions must remain seizure-free, maintain stable treatment, and report a seizure to FMCSA within 24 hours. They must also submit annual physician reports and certified driving records, undergo an annual medical exam by a certified medical examiner, provide the medical certificate to their employer or keep it in their qualification file, and report crashes or disqualifying citations/convictions to FMCSA within 7 days.
Federal Preemption While Exemption Active
While an exemption is in effect, no State may enforce any law or regulation that conflicts with the exemption for a person operating under it. That preemption applies for the exemption period (November 6, 2025 through November 6, 2027).
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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The FMCSA is renewing special permissions for 16 truck drivers with epilepsy or seizure disorders, letting them keep driving commercial vehicles across state lines while on medication. This means qualified drivers who manage their condition safely can continue working without interruption. These renewed exemptions have specific start and end dates, so affected drivers should keep an eye on their expiration to stay compliant.