FMCSA Proposes Change to Vision Standard
FMCSA announced a proposed rulemaking change pertaining to their vision exemption program. This would set forth new guidance for Medical Examiners to use in determining driving status for those who do not meet the current vision standard.
Presently, a driver who does not meet the vision standard has the possibility of obtaining a state vision variance to drive intrastate. Once the driver has driven intrastate for 3 or more years with the current eye condition, they may apply for the federal vision waiver. If accepted, this allows the driver to now drive across state lines.
The proposal is to eliminate the need to acquire 3 years of intrastate driving before applying for the federal vision exemption. The driver would have to meet certain criteria including a specialist eye exam as part of the application process.
This is not a new FMCSA idea. It has been in the pipeline for at least the last 3-5 years.

This is only the beginning of what will likely be a 1-2 year process. There is likely to be substantial resistance to this change from safety organizations. And with a new administration, there is no guarantee the proposed rule will successfully complete the long process to become a regulation. 

The same procedure was used when FMCSA ended the insulin use exemption, adopting the MCSA-5870 form, and making provisions for Medical Examiners to make the certification decision for driver’s using insulin.  

CMEs can provide input thru the docket until 3/15/2021 by using the following link:
What should Medical Examiners do right now? 
Nothing different!
Medical Examiners should continue to follow the current regulations already established by the FMCSA Non-Discretionary Vision Standard and Exemption Program.
TeamCME will keep Medical Examiners aware of this proposed rule change
as it moves thru the process, with ample time to be prepared.
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