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Idaho Lawmakers Eye Federal Rules on Farm Equipment Drivers
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Written by Cathleen W. Rubio   
Thursday, 22 December 2011
Members of the Idaho Legislature who represent agricultural interests in Twin Falls and Owyhee counties are keeping an eye on a federal rule clarification that could ultimately change how the drivers of farm equipment would be licensed.

The Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1986 established minimum national standards for commercial driver’s licenses, and allows states to waive Commercial Driver’s License requirements for agricultural producers who operate farm equipment on public roads for short distances.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration now is seeking to clarify whether a piece of farm equipment, when operated on public roads, should be considered a commercial motor vehicle. The clarification is needed, the administration contends, to make sure safety regulations are uniformly administered.

John Thompson, director of public relations for the Idaho Farm Bureau Federation in Pocatello, said the federation has not been tracking the issue and has not taken a formal position, but that any additional regulation did not sound necessary.

“We would certainly oppose it,” Thompson said.

Rep. Stephen Hartgen represents District 23 and its agriculture interests in southern Idaho. The federal activity is unwarranted, he said, adding that he is concerned that any attempt to require a commercial license of farm equipment drivers would prohibit younger farm employees and others not frequently needing such licenses from the occasional need to transfer a farm vehicle or to drive a piece of equipment elsewhere for repairs.

“It’s yet another example of the federal government reaching down into our lives and imposing restrictions that really don’t have any use,” said Hartgen, R-Twin Falls. “The whole Magic Valley is an agricultural area, and it’s very common for farmers to move equipment from field to field using public roads. It’s something that would affect many of our farmers and our drivers.”

From a safety standpoint, Idaho drivers are comfortable around farm traffic, he said.

“I don’t see the point. Why is this needed? If this is needed, leave it to the states and let the states handle it. Maybe we just need some ‘rules of the road’ retweaking.”
Last Updated ( Thursday, 22 December 2011 )