March 23, 2020
Government Affairs Alert
COVID-19 Update
DMV Updates
Grace Period for Medical Certificates
The CTA team has been in virtually constant communications with California’s Office of Emergency Services (OES), California Highway Patrol, Caltrans and California DMV on a number of matters related to the state’s response and the critical role of trucking. Additionally, we are in close contact with FMCSA while the American Trucking Associations (ATA) is the lead on efforts at the federal level, as well as the ATA directly, and the other state trucking associations across the country.
Over the last week, CTA has been working closely with the DMV specifically on the issue of expiring medical certificates. As of today, we confirmed that the 60-day grace period for expiring CDLs applies to expiring medical certificates as well.
During this period, due to local DMV office closures, limited appointment availability and to ensure the continued movement of essential goods, drivers can temporarily operate with expired medical certificates and CDLs without risk of citation from law enforcement. However, the State is expected to promptly bring its CDL and medical certification status and downgrade practices back into conformance as soon as the national emergency ends or when the DMV resumes normal operations.
Shelter-in-Place
Access Restrictions
As you know, in addition to the statewide executive order, several cities have imposed shelter-in-place restrictions. If your trucks are having issues gaining access to pick up and delivery points or access to highways, or if your company or employees are impeded by local officials, please let CTA know and be sure to include as much detail as possible.
Rest Stops
CTA has been in communication with CalSTA and Caltrans and we have received assurances that rest stops will remain open during the shelter-in-place orders.
Weekly COVID-19 Coordination Call
Next Call is Friday, March 27 from 1:30-2:00pm
Join us on our upcoming COVID-19 coordination calls. We will provide updates and exchange information to ensure the unimpeded movement of trucks during this ongoing situation.
