ASI Files Comments on Electronic Logging

ASI Files Comments on Electronic Logging

Russell Nemetz
Russell Nemetz
Hi everybody it's time for your Land and Livestock Report here on the Ag Information Network of the West-I'm Russell Nemetz.

American Sheep Industry Association President Mike Corn of New Mexico weighed in this week requesting a one-year delay (and subsequent waiver) on enforcing the rules surrounding the transportation of livestock. ASI's comments were directed toward the application for exemption from the National Pork Producers Council.

"On behalf of the members of the American Sheep Industry Association, I write to request that you grant a one-year enforcement delay followed by a waiver and limited exemptions from compliance with the December 18, 2017, implementation date for the Final Rule on Electronic Logging Devices and Hours of Service 80 Fed. Reg. 78292. Moreover, I request that you take actions to address the significant problems with the current mandate that will occur if the compliance deadline is not extended by your agency.

"The welfare and safety of the animals in transit, together with the safety of other drivers on the road, are top priorities for the U.S. sheep industry. Unlike their counterparts driving conventional commercial motor vehicles, most livestock haulers follow the transportation guidelines in the industry's Sheep Safety and Quality Assurance program and Sheep Care Guide, both of which provide instruction on proper animal handling and transportation methods. The SSQA is the national certification program for the sheep industry and is auditable similar to the other livestock transportation education programs. SSQA was developed in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

"As reflected in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's data, the emphasis this program places on animal welfare, benefits driver safety as it encourages livestock haulers to slow down, be more aware of their surroundings and road conditions that could result in animal injury.

That's your Land and Livestock Report-I'm Russell Nemetz.

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