The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association is endorsing the Haulers of Agriculture and Livestock Safety (HAULS) Act of 2021. Introduced by four senators, the bipartisan bill would deliver much-needed flexibility for livestock haulers. “One year after COVID-19 began to disrupt daily life, U.S. cattle producers continue to prove each day that they are committed to keeping grocery stores stocked with beef,” says NCBA President Jerry Bohn. “Livestock haulers are a critical component of the beef supply chain, and flexibility in livestock hauling regulations remains vital.” Current hours-of-service rules allow for 11 hours of drive time, 14 hours on-duty time, and then require ten consecutive hours of rest. NCBA says when transporting livestock, there’s a serious need for further flexibility beyond the current hours of service. Unlike drivers moving consumer goods, livestock haulers cannot simply idle or unload their trucks when drive time hours run out without jeopardizing animal health and welfare. Bohn adds, “The HAULS Act represents the best long-term solution, which is a permanent change to existing hours-of-service regulations that preserve animal welfare as well as safety on our roads.” It also makes sure that truckers can keep stores stocked with beef.
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