E7-9339. Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Diabetes

AGENCY:

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

ACTION:

Notice of applications for exemptions from the diabetes standard; request for comments.

SUMMARY:

FMCSA announces receipt of applications from 57 individuals for exemptions from the prohibition against persons with insulin-treated diabetes mellitus (ITDM) operating commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in interstate commerce. If granted, the exemptions would enable these individuals with ITDM to operate CMVs in interstate commerce.

DATES:

Comments must be received on or before June 15, 2007.

ADDRESSES:

You may submit comments identified by Department of Transportation (DOT) Docket Management System (DMS) Docket Number FMCSA-2007-27387 using any of the following methods:

• Web site: http://dmses.dot.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments on the DOT electronic docket site.
• Fax: [phone].
• Mail: Docket Management Facility; U.S. Department of Transportation, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Nassif Building, Room PL-401, Washington, DC 20590-0001.
• Hand Delivery: Room PL-401 on the plaza level of the Nassif Building, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal Holidays.
• Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the on-line instructions for submitting comments.

All submissions must include the Agency name and docket number for this Notice. Note that all comments received will be posted without change to http://dms.dot.gov,, including any personal information provided. Please see the Privacy Act heading under Regulatory Notices. To read background documents or comments received, go to http://dms.dot.gov or to Room PL-401 on the plaza level of the Nassif Building, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Washington, DC between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.

Docket: For access to the docket to read background documents or comments received, go to http://dms.dot.gov at any time or Room PL-401 on the plaza level of the Nassif Building, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The DMS is available 24 hours each day, 365 days each year. If you want acknowledgment that we received your comments, please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope or postcard or print the acknowledgement page that appears after submitting comments on-line.

Privacy Act: Anyone may search the electronic form of all comments received into any of our dockets by the name of the individual submitting the comment (or of the person signing the comment, if submitted on behalf of an association, business, labor union, etc.). You may review the DOT's complete Privacy Act Statement in the Federal Register published on April 11, 2000 (65 FR 19477; Apr. 11, 2000). This information is also available at http://dms.dot.gov.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Dr. Mary D. Gunnels, Chief, Physical Qualifications Division, [phone], [e-mail], FMCSA, Department of Transportation, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Room 8301, Washington, DC 20590-0001. Office hours are from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Background

Under 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, FMCSA may grant an exemption for a 2-year period if it finds “such exemption would likely achieve a level of safety that is equivalent to, or greater than, the level that would be achieved absent such exemption.” The statute also allows the Agency to renew exemptions at the end of the 2-year period. The 57 individuals listed in this notice have recently requested an exemption from the diabetes prohibition in 49 CFR 391.41(b)(3), which applies to drivers of CMVs in interstate commerce. Accordingly, the Agency will evaluate the qualifications of each applicant to determine whether granting the exemption will achieve the required level of safety mandated by the statute.

Qualifications of Applicants

Darrell L. Allen

Mr. Allen, age 37, has had ITDM since 2004. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Allen meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2006 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) from Missouri.

Jeffery C. Badberg

Mr. Badberg, 31, has had ITDM since 1980. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Badberg meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His ophthalmologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has stable nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class O operator's license from Nebraska, which allows him operate any non-commercial vehicle except motorcycles.

Kevin W. Bender

Mr. Bender, 23, has had ITDM since 2003. His endocrinologist examined him in 2007 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Bender meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His ophthalmologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class D operator's license from New York.

Karry J. Benfiet

Mr. Benfiet, 54, has had ITDM since 2006. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Benfiet meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2007 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class A CDL from North Dakota.

Ronnie T. Bledsoe

Mr. Bledsoe, 37, has had ITDM since 1986. His endocrinologist examined him in 2007 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Bledsoe meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2007 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class C operator's license from North Carolina.

Ricky N. Blankenship

Mr. Blankenship, 48, has had ITDM since 2005. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Blankenship meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2006 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class A CDL from Utah.

Kevin E. Blythe

Mr. Blythe, 46, has had ITDM since 1989. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Blythe meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His ophthalmologist examined him in 2007 and certified that he has stable nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class B CDL from Arkansas.

Clayton J. Bragg

Mr. Bragg, 30, has had ITDM since 1989. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Bragg meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His ophthalmologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has stable nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy. He holds an operator's license from Indiana, which allows him to drive any vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of 16,000 pounds or less, except motorcycles.

James A. Broderick

Mr. Broderick, 69, has had ITDM since 1970. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Broderick meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2006 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class B CDL from Montana.

Clifford O. Bull

Mr. Bull, 36, has had ITDM since 1995. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Bull meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2006 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class D operator's license from South Carolina.

Richard M. Carey

Mr. Carey, 46, has had ITDM since 1990. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Carey meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His ophthalmologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class C operator's license from North Carolina.

Cary W. Chase

Mr. Chase, 38, has had ITDM since 2006. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Chase meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2006 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class B CDL from Colorado.

Robert L. Chestnut

Mr. Chestnut, 68, has had ITDM since 2006. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Chestnut meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His ophthalmologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has stable nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class A CDL from Pennsylvania.

Dino J. Coli, Jr.

Mr. Coli, 53, has had ITDM since 2006. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Coli meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His ophthalmologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has stable nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class C operator's license from Oregon.

Larry E. Colson

Mr. Colson, 45, has had ITDM since 2006. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Colson meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2007 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class A CDL from Colorado.

Elijah N. Craft

Mr. Craft, 66, has had ITDM since 2006. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Craft meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2006 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class A CDL from Minnesota.

Leonard Cunningham

Mr. Cunningham, 56, has had ITDM since 2005. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Cunningham meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His ophthalmologist examined him in 2007 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class B operator's license from Maryland, which allows him to drive non-commercial vehicles and combinations weighing 26,001 or more pounds gross vehicle weight, except tractors, trailers, etc.

LaVerne A. DeChausse

Mr. DeChausse, 49, has had ITDM since 2005. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. DeChausse meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2006 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class A CDL from Illinois.

Jason E. Earlywine

Mr. Earlywine, 32, has had ITDM since 1976. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Earlywine meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His ophthalmologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has stable nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class A CDL from Kentucky.

Eddie L. Edwards

Mr. Edwards, 51, has had ITDM since 2005. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Edwards meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2006 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class A CDL from Illinois.

Leroy Finn

Mr. Finn, 66, has had ITDM since 2004. His endocrinologist examined him in 2007 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Finn meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His ophthalmologist examined him in 2007 and certified that he has stable nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class A CDL from Illinois.

John E. Fitch

Mr. Fitch, 52, has had ITDM since 1993. His endocrinologist examined him in 2007 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Fitch meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2007 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class A CDL from Michigan.

Steven L. Garland

Mr. Garland, 57, has had ITDM since childhood. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Garland meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His ophthalmologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has stable nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class E operator's license from Missouri, which allows him to drive any non-commercial combination of motor vehicles with a gross vehicle weight less than 26,001 pounds.

William J. Gerlach

Mr. Gerlach, 66, has had ITDM since 2005. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Gerlach meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His ophthalmologist examined him in 2007 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class A CDL from Ohio.

Anthony Giulitto

Mr. Giulitto, 38, has had ITDM since 2006. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Giulitto meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2006 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class A CDL from Arizona.

Francis J. Godwin

Mr. Godwin, 43, has had ITDM since 1992. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Godwin meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His ophthalmologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class A CDL from New York.

Ricky A. Goss

Mr. Goss, 51, has had ITDM since 2002. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Goss meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2006 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class D operator's license from Ohio.

Robert J. Guilford

Mr. Guilford, 25, has had ITDM since 1990. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Guilford meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His ophthalmologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class B CDL from New York.

Lucas C. Hansen

Mr. Hansen, 29, has had ITDM since 1990. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Hansen meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2006 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class A CDL from Iowa.

Ryan R. Harris

Mr. Harris, 30, has had ITDM since 2005. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Harris meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2006 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class A CDL from Iowa.

Dale R. Hass

Mr. Hass, 56, has had ITDM since 2006. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Hass meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His ophthalmologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has stable nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class A CDL from Wisconsin.

Robert P. Haught

Mr. Haught, 38, has had ITDM since 1981. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Haught meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His ophthalmologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has stable proliferative diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class O operator's license from Michigan, which allows him to operate any motor vehicle except motorcycles and CMVs.

Troy O. Heathcock

Mr. Heathcock, 64, has had ITDM since 2000. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Heathcock meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His ophthalmologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has stable nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class B CDL from Michigan.

Mark E. Hogmire

Mr. Hogmire, 42, has had ITDM since 1993. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Hogmire meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2006 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class M operator's license from Virginia.

Matthew P. Horner

Mr. Horner, 31, has had ITDM since 2005. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Horner meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2006 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class A CDL from Pennsylvania.

Scott D. Leland

Mr. Leland, 45, has had ITDM since 1972. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Leland meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2006 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class D operator's license from Arizona.

Dennis R. Mace

Mr. Mace, 61 has had ITDM since 2006. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Mace meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2006 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class A CDL from Pennsylvania.

Elizabeth A. Marsh

Ms. Marsh, 55, has had ITDM since 2006. Her endocrinologist examined her in 2006 and certified that she has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of her diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Ms. Marsh meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). Her optometrist examined her in 2006 and certified that she does not have diabetic retinopathy. She holds a Class A CDL from Alabama.

Peggy A. Myers

Ms. Myers, 39, has had ITDM since 1988. Her endocrinologist examined her in 2006 and certified that she has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of her diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Ms. Myers meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). Her optometrist examined her in 2006 and certified that she does not have diabetic retinopathy. She holds an operator's license from Indiana, which allows her to drive any vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of 16,000 pounds or less, except motorcycles.

Frank C. Perrin

Mr. Perrin, 37, has had ITDM since 1997. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Perrin meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His ophthalmologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class A CDL from Iowa.

Herbert A. Pierce

Mr. Pierce, 40, has had ITDM since 2000. His endocrinologist examined him in 2007 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Pierce meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2006 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class D operator's license from Ohio.

Douglas F. Reinke

Mr. Reinke, 55, has had ITDM since 1990. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Reinke meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His ophthalmologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has stable nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class A CDL from Wisconsin.

Carlos Rosa

Mr. Rosa, 43, has had ITDM since 2003. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Rosa meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His ophthalmologist examined him in 2007 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class B CDL from Connecticut.

Nicholas F. Santacroce

Mr. Santacroce, 46, has had ITDM since 1991. His endocrinologist examined him in 2007 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Santacroce meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His ophthalmologist examined him in 2007 and certified that he has stable nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class D operator's license from Massachusetts.

Timothy S. Seitz

Mr. Seitz, 51, has had ITDM since 2006. His endocrinologist examined him in 2007 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Seitz meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2007 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class A CDL from Indiana.

Steven J. Shaw

Mr. Shaw, 24, has had ITDM since 2006. His endocrinologist examined him in 2007 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Shaw meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2006 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class A CDL from Idaho.

Donna B. Shehan

Ms. Shehan, 39, has had ITDM since 2006. Her endocrinologist examined her in 2006 and certified that she has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of her diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Ms. Shehan meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). Her ophthalmologist examined her in 2006 and certified that she does not have diabetic retinopathy. She holds a Class D CDL from South Carolina.

Kenneth J. Shifton

Mr. Shifton, 56, has had ITDM since February, 2006. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Shifton meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2006 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class A CDL from Oregon.

Rick G. Skonberg

Mr. Skonberg, 52, has had ITDM since 1995. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Skonberg meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His ophthalmologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has stable nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class A CDL from Alaska.

Stephanie B. Smith

Ms. Smith, 39, has had ITDM since 2006. Her endocrinologist examined her in 2006 and certified that she has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of her diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Ms. Smith meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). Her ophthalmologist examined her in 2006 and certified that she does not have diabetic retinopathy. She holds a Class B CDL from Washington.

Earl C. Smouse

Mr. Smouse, 49, has had ITDM since 2004. His endocrinologist examined him in 2007 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Smouse meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His ophthalmologist examined him in 2007 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class B CDL from Texas.

Randall J. Stoller

Mr. Stoller, 50, has had ITDM since 1987. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Stoller meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2006 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class A CDL from Illinois.

Peter A. Storm

Mr. Storm, 30, has had ITDM since 2006. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Storm meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2006 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class D chauffeur's license from Louisiana.

Robert H. Thompson, Jr.

Mr. Thompson, 38, has had ITDM since 1994. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Thompson meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His ophthalmologist examined him in 2007 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class E operator's license from Louisiana, which allows him to operate any single motor vehicle under 10,000 pounds gross vehicle weight, any personal use recreational vehicle, and farm vehicles controlled and operated by a farmer.

Robert D. Toland

Mr. Toland, 50, has had ITDM since 1995. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Toland meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His ophthalmologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class A CDL from Illinois.

Mark A. Webber

Mr. Webber, 46, has had ITDM since 2005. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Webber meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2006 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class D operator's license from Minnesota.

Jeffrey A. Withers

Mr. Withers, 39, has had ITDM since 2004. His endocrinologist examined him in 2006 and certified that he has had no hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness, requiring the assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive function that occurred without warning in the past 5 years; understands diabetes management and monitoring; and has stable control of his diabetes using insulin, and is able to drive a CMV safely. Mr. Withers meets the requirements of the vision standard at 49 CFR 391.41(b)(10). His optometrist examined him in 2006 and certified that he does not have diabetic retinopathy. He holds a Class A CDL from Michigan.

Request for Comments

In accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, FMCSA requests public comment from all interested persons on the exemption petitions described in this notice.

We will consider all comments received before the close of business on the closing date indicated earlier in the Notice.

FMCSA notes that Section 4129 of the Safe, Accountable, Flexible and Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU) requires the Secretary to revise its diabetes exemption program established on September 3, 2003 (68 FR 52441).^[1] The revision must provide for individual assessment of drivers with diabetes mellitus, and be consistent with the criteria described in section 4018 of the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (49 U.S.C. 31305).

Section 4129 requires: (1) The elimination of the requirement for three years of experience operating CMVs while being treated with insulin; and (2) the establishment of a specified minimum period of insulin use to demonstrate stable control of diabetes before being allowed to operate a CMV.

In response to section 4129, FMCSA made immediate revisions to the diabetes exemption program established by the September 3, 2003. Notice. FMCSA discontinued use of the 3-year driving experience and fulfilled the requirements of section 4129 while continuing to ensure that operation of CMVs by drivers with ITDM will achieve the requisite level of safety required of all exemptions granted under 49 U.S.C. 31136 (e).

Section 4129(d) also directed FMCSA to ensure that drivers of CMVs with ITDM are not held to a higher standard than other drivers, with the exception of limited operating, monitoring and medical requirements that are deemed medically necessary.

FMCSA concluded that all of the operating, monitoring and medical requirements set out in the September 3, 2003 Notice, except as modified, were in compliance with section 4129(d). Therefore, all of the requirements set out in the September 3, 2003 Notice, except as modified in the Notice in the Federal Register on November 8, 2005 (70 FR 67777), remain in effect.

Issued on: May 9, 2007.

Pamela M. Pelcovits,

Acting Associate Administrator, Policy and Program Development.

Footnotes

1.  Section 4129(a) refers to the 2003 Notice as a “final rule.” However, the 2003 Notice did not issue a “final rule,” but did establish the procedures and standards for issuing exemptions for drivers with ITDM.