Gov. Laura Kelly’s disaster declaration temporarily lifts commercial vehicle regulations in Kansas

TOPEKA, Kan. (KCTV) - With severe winter weather hitting Kansas this week, Governor Laura Kelly announced Friday that her disaster declaration -- which happened Tuesday -- temporarily lifts hours of service regulations typically imposed on commercial motor vehicles.

Kelly issued the state of disaster emergency declaration on Monday, Jan. 8, shortly before 6 p.m.

According to the Governor’s Office, “in accordance with 49 C.F.R., the disaster declaration made... temporarily lifts the hours of service regulations for motor carriers or drivers operating commercial motor vehicles so long as the motor carriers or drivers are providing direct assistance during the emergency.

“Temporarily lifting these regulations ensures necessary supplies and relief from the extreme winter weather can reach communities as quickly as possible,” Kelly said Friday. “I encourage all Kansans to use caution over the coming days, including reconsidering travel, to be safe and warm.”

The temporary lift of the restrictions lasts until the emergency ends or 14 days from Monday’s disaster declaration, whichever is less.