U.S. raises limits on fuel delivery drivers’ hours as diesel prices soar

By Alton Wallace
The Center Square

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy this week announced a 90-day increase in the federal driving limits for truckers hauling gasoline and diesel fuel in an effort to restrain soaring energy costs and stabilize domestic supply chains.

The emergency waiver, issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, comes as the average U.S. price of a gallon of diesel fuel reached a record $6.29 and gasoline hit $4.31, a three-month high.

By extending the allowable daily driving limit from 14 to 16 hours, the agency said the waiver helps to protect against shortages, lower costs for families at the pump, and reduces strain on America’s agricultural producers.

“From unleashing American energy production to alleviating short-term supply chain pressures, the Trump Administration is constantly taking action to lower fuel prices,” Duffy said. “Our great American truckers will continue to haul the products that power America and keep our economy moving.”

Typically, after Labor Day, the summer driving season ends and the demand for motor fuels drops sharply. Gas stations can also legally switch to cheaper "winter-blend" fuel, further reducing pump prices in the early fall.

The federal government normally relaxes driving limits on truckers delivering fuel supplies only in natural disasters, such as hurricanes or major winter storms, to ensure that emergency crews can reach distressed areas.

Don Schaefer, president and CEO of the Mid-West Truckers Association, said regional supply chains are stressed. "With the fall harvest season in full swing and the anticipated start of fuel-oil heating season on the East coast, demand for diesel fuel is spiking to its highest levels at the most crucial time of the year," Schaefer said.

"Diesel and other distillate deliveries are expected to increase 4% in coming weeks, putting pressure on an already stressed supply chain, due to disruptions in some Midwest refinery operations."

Schaefer said U.S. consumers will ultimately pay more for many goods as record-high fuel costs affect the broader economy. "The dramatic increase in the diesel price will force all modes of transportation – trucking, rail, water and air – to pass on the increased costs in fuel surcharges and higher rates, which will then be passed on to the consumer," Schaefer warned.

In March 2020, as the COVID-19 pandemic began, the federal driving restrictions were relaxed for more than 31 months in an effort to maintain adequate supplies of food and medical supplies.

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