A Q&A with Santa, and Fleet Manager Mrs Claus, of North Pole Inc
With regulatory updates changing nearly as fast as the coronavirus (COVID-19) is spreading, it may be hard to keep up. We’re collecting some of the most important updates and resources to keep the logistics and transportation industry informed on some of the regulation updates and industry resources that may impact the businesses that continue to move the goods America requires during this extraordinary time of need.
CVSA Webinar: COVID-19 Emergency Declarations, Exemptions, Extensions, Waivers and other Relevant Updates
https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/7462938877977775116
Okay, so this is technically next week, but it was announced this week and you can register immediately. The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) is doing their best to keep the transportation community informed of regulatory updates. Aside from rapid response emails about the changes, they are hosting a webinar for the public to get insights and ask questions. You can register for the webinar here.
Free Online Course: What Drivers Need to Know About COVID-19
https://www.instructiontech.net/covid19
Instructional Technologies, Inc. (ITI) has put together an online training course to help drivers understand the impact of the virus, how it may affect their everyday jobs and tips to keep themselves and others safe. The course is free to drivers as they continue to drive the frontline efforts to keep America moving. Take the course here.
Forgivable Small Business Loans to Keep Your Business Afloat
https://www.coronavirus.gov/smallbusiness/
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic and its economic impact, the United States Congress signed an unprecedent economic aide and stimulus package last week. Today, April 3rd, a $349 billion portion of that package is open for enrollment to America’s small businesses in the form of forgivable loans. The loans will be forgiven as long as:
- The loan proceeds are used to cover payroll costs, and most mortgage interest, rent, and utility costs over the 8-week period after the loan is made; and
- Employee and compensation levels are maintained.
You can apply through any existing SBA lender or through any federally insured depository institution, federally insured credit union, and Farm Credit System institution that is participating.
For more information on the program click HERE.
For a loan application form click HERE.
FMCSA Issues Waiver for Trucker Drivers with Learner Permits
https://www.ttnews.com/articles/fmcsa-issues-covid-19-waiver-truck-drivers-learner-permits
As reported in Transport Topics, in response the President’s State of Emergency the Federal Motor Carriers Safety Administration (FMCSA) has relaxed provisions related to a commercial driving learners permit. You can read the article here or learn the details of the waivers directly from the FMCSA announcement here.
Some States Have Relaxed International Registration Plan (IRP) Requirements
Check with your local state agency, but many states have issued waivers or extensions on permit fees related to IRPs and have also asked law enforcement personnel to be more lenient on fines and violations related to expired registrations.
ICYMI: CVSA Postponed International Roadcheck 2020
As covered in FleetOwner, for the first time in 32 years the International Roadcheck has been postponed to later, yet-to-be determined date. Although the event that was originally scheduled for May 5-7, will not proceed, there will still be the usual number of roadside safety inspections and traffic enforcement on a daily basis. Read the article here.