The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration found that California’s meal and rest break requirements are causing an unnecessary delay in the transportation of hazardous and explosive materials by motor vehicle.
Additionally, the agency concluded that California’s meal and rest break requirements are preempted as to motor carriers that are required to file a security plan under the federal regulations and those who have filed security plans requiring constant attendance of the hazardous materials being transported. PHMSA feels that it is impossible for those drivers to comply with off-duty requirements laid out in the meal and rest break rule and the federal Hours of Service regulations.
