A bill introduced in the Senate this week provides agricultural producers much-needed flexibility for hauling agricultural commodities and livestock. Micheal Clements shares how the changes promote safety for both drivers and animals.

Clements: Legislation introduced by Senator Deb Fischer of Nebraska would provide flexibility in hauling livestock and perishable commodities. Andrew Walmsley, American Farm Bureau Federation Congressional Relations Director, says the HAULS Act would extend hours of service exemptions in agriculture to year-round.

Walmsley: The HAULS Act is an important piece of legislation introduced by Senator Fischer of Nebraska. She’s been working with a group of ag commodity organizations and other ag haulers to listen to the needs of the industry. And so she’s developed this bill that would provide three things to modernize trucking regulations and make a benefit for the safety and efficiency of hauling ag products.

Clements: Farm Bureau and other agriculture groups support the legislation. Walmsley says the changes include removing seasonality restrictions.

Read the full article and listen to the comments on the American Farm Bureau Federation website.