NCBA Urges Passage Of The HELP Act To Support Livestock Haulers

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The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), along with numerous state cattle associations, is urging lawmakers to support the Hauling Exemptions for Livestock Protection (HELP) Act, introduced by Representative Jeff Hurd (R-CO). This critical legislation would provide long-overdue relief for livestock haulers, protecting them from the burdensome Hours of Service (HOS) and Electronic Logging Device (ELD) mandates.

HELP Act Would Reinstate Vital Exemptions for Livestock Transportation

The HELP Act seeks to permanently codify HOS and ELD exemptions that were temporarily granted by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) during the COVID-19 pandemic. These exemptions allowed livestock truck drivers to safely transport live animals without being restricted by rigid federal mandates.

For nearly two years, these waivers gave haulers the flexibility to adapt to weather, traffic, and the unique demands of transporting live animals—ensuring animal welfare and supply chain efficiency. However, once the exemptions expired, livestock haulers once again faced regulations that threaten both.

By reinstating these exemptions, the HELP Act would ensure drivers can continue safely and humanely transporting livestock across the country without unnecessary delays or stress to animals.

Speed Limiter Rule Dropped, But More Relief Is Needed

In a recent win for the livestock industry, FMCSA and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced the withdrawal of a proposed rule to require speed limiters on commercial trucks. While this was welcomed by livestock haulers, HOS and ELD mandates remain a pressing concern.

Unlike other freight, cattle and other livestock cannot be easily stopped, unloaded, or left idle during transport. Delays can cause undue stress or injury to animals, making flexible transportation rules essential.

NCBA Thanks Rep. Jeff Hurd and Urges Congressional Action

The NCBA has voiced strong support for the HELP Act and applauds Rep. Jeff Hurd for introducing this livestock-friendly legislation. By passing the HELP Act, Congress can ensure that haulers have the tools and flexibility needed to protect animal welfare, support ranchers, and strengthen the food supply chain.

 

To Review The Bill, Click HERE.

REFERENCE: 

https://cdllife.com/2025/bill-seeking-permanent-hos-exemption-for-livestock-haulers/

https://www.drovers.com/news/industry/help-act-seeks-relief-livestock-haulers#:~:text=The%20Hauling%20Exemptions%20for%20Livestock,two%20years%20during%20the%20pandemic.%E2%80%9D

https://www.ncba.org/news-media/news/details/43643/ncba-endorses-help-act-to-support-livestock-haulers

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