In response to the upcoming solar eclipse, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has issued a 5-day emergency declaration, pursuant to 49 CFR Part 390.23 and Chapter 644 of the Texas Transportation Code.
"With 480 miles of Texas within the "path of totality," there could be heavy traffic before, during, and after the event," reports TX DOT. As a result of anticipated heavy traffic, TXDOT, along with other agencies like DPS, are taking precautions.
During the last solar eclipse, traffic in Texas increased significantly, prompting the anticipation that relief measures needed to be taken. This emergency declaration provides relief from 49 CFR Part 395.3 of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations for motor carriers in Texas, specifically addressing the maximum driving time for commercial motor vehicles.
The purpose is to offer direct assistance to disaster relief efforts within the state. Such assistance includes crucial tasks like power grid repairs and the delivery of essential supplies such as groceries, fuel, and propane.
It's important to note that motor carriers with an Out-of-Service Order in effect are ineligible to benefit from the relief this declaration offered under Title 49, CFR, Part 390.23.
Effective from 12:01 a.m. on April 6, 2024, the emergency declaration will be in force. It will remain effective for the duration of the emergency, as defined in Title 49, CFR, Part 390.5, or for five days, ending at 11:59 p.m. on April 10, 2024, whichever is shorter.
Please find a copy of the waiver approved by the Director of DPS.