Reguired federal permitting for transporting certain hazardous materials is "definitely on the radar screen" with a final rule expected in June 2004, said Danny Shelton of the Federal Motor Carrier Administration (FMCSA). He made the remarks at the National Tank Truck Carriers annual Conference and Tank Truck Equipment Show May 10-12 in Las Vegas NV.
The hazmat permitting is a result of security concerns that followed the terrorist attacks on the United States, as well as a lawsuit filed against the agency by public interest groups.
Interstate, intrastate, and foreign carriers will be required to file for the permits. Among the products on the permit-required list are high explosives, products that are toxic in inhalation, radioactive materials, and liquefied natural gas. Shelton pointed out that an appeals process will be put in place for those who fail to meet the permitting standards. In addition, he said that carriers with a satisfactory safety record that meet the other requirements shouldn't find difficulty in obtaining the permit.