Hazmat Responders Want Extended Drive Time After Emergencies
Published Date: 6/30/2026
Notice
Summary
Lone Star Haz Mat Response, LLC wants special permission to let their drivers work longer hours when heading back home after handling dangerous materials emergencies. This change affects their field response drivers and could mean more flexible work hours without breaking the usual safety rules. The public can share their thoughts by July 30, 2026, before the government decides if Lone Star gets the green light.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Allow Lone Star drivers to exceed HOS
If you are a Lone Star Haz Mat Response "field response" driver, Lone Star has applied for an exemption that would let you exceed Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration hours-of-service (HOS) limits only to return to your normal work reporting location or residence after completing hazardous materials incident response operations. The application is limited to Lone Star's field response personnel and FMCSA is accepting public comments through July 30, 2026 before deciding whether to grant the exemption.
Company limits and estimated use frequency
Lone Star states it dispatches drivers only when they have sufficient HOS hours available at dispatch, and estimates any approved exemption would be used about 4 to 5 times per month. If you are a Lone Star field response driver, the company says the requested relief would be infrequent and limited to return trips after hazardous materials or emergency response work.
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Key Dates
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