Truck transportation restrictions lifted until June 1

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WTVQ) – Kentucky Transportation Secretary Jim Gray Friday extended until June 1, 2020 an existing emergency order that temporarily lifts regulatory restrictions on motor carriers delivering goods and services critical to COVID-19 pandemic relief.

The order is in keeping with Gov. Andy Beshear’s declaration of an emergency as part of a sweeping effort to protect Kentuckians and combat the spread of the coronavirus.

Secretary Gray’s original order, issued on March 13, would have expired at midnight Sunday.

The emergency order will expedite the delivery of food, water, fuel and other supplies to affected areas. It also applies to vehicles engaged in response to the pandemic. The order temporarily relieves the drivers from maximum driving times and weigh station stops, according to the state.

In addition, the order authorizes the Transportation Cabinets Department of Vehicle Regulation to waive permit fees for overweight/over-dimensional vehicles. To ensure the safety of the traveling public, carriers must comply with safety requirements and have a copy of the order in the truck cab if operating under the authority of the official order.

A copy of the emergency order can be found here.