In light of potential electronic logging device (ELD) mandates, farmers and ranchers who haul livestock should evaluate their need for a commercial driver’s license (CDL) and commercial motor vehicle (CMV) label.

The rule on ELDs — which record a person’s driving hours — was published in 2015. Requirements on trucks hauling ag commodities and livestock are delayed until March 18.

“We would like more flexibility in rules for those who haul perishable commodities and livestock,” said the Alabama Farmers Federation’s Nate Jaeger. “As cattle and livestock are moved across regions, the well-being of animals involved must be considered. Multiple stops or repeated offloading of animals hurt a farmer’s bottom line and result in unnecessary stress on livestock.”

The Federation, American Farm Bureau Federation and other associations are pursuing exemptions to help farmers.

Visit tinyurl.com/FMSCAMandate to learn more.