Epileptic Truckers Get Green Light to Haul Interstate Freight Again
Published Date: 9/9/2026
Notice
Summary
FMCSA announces its decision to renew exemptions for five individuals from the requirement in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) that interstate commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers have "no established medical history or clinical diagnosis of epilepsy or any other condition which is likely to cause loss of consciousness or any loss of ability to control a CMV." The exemptions enable these individuals who have had one or more seizures and are taking anti-seizure medication to continue to operate CMVs in interstate commerce.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Five Drivers Allowed to Keep Driving
FMCSA renewed exemptions allowing five named drivers—Andrew Anzalone (MA), Ramon Hinojosa (AZ), Richard Packer (ID), Brian Adam Runk (PA), and Keith White (PA)—to operate commercial motor vehicles in interstate commerce. The exemptions are effective March 15, 2026 and expire March 15, 2028, letting these individuals continue driving despite a history of seizures while on anti-seizure medication.
Exemption Compliance Requirements
The five exempted drivers must follow strict conditions: remain seizure-free and maintain stable treatment, report any seizure to FMCSA within 24 hours, submit annual physician reports, undergo an annual medical exam by a certified medical examiner, provide the annual medical certification to their employer (or keep a copy if self-employed), and submit annual certified driving records. They must also report crashes within 7 days, report citations/convictions for disqualifying offenses within 7 days, carry a copy of the exemption while driving, and meet all CDL testing requirements.
Federal Preemption While Exemption Active
While the exemptions are in effect (March 15, 2026 to March 15, 2028), no State may enforce any law or regulation that conflicts with these exemptions with respect to a person operating under the exemption. This protects the exempted drivers from state actions that would otherwise prevent them from driving under the federal exemption.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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