e-Team Report, Sept. 18, 2015

Private postal subcontractors are seeking an exemption from a necessary federal safety rule. If granted, the exemption would permit private, commercial drivers hauling mail for the U.S. Postal Service to operate trucks after more than 14 hours on duty following a break of less than 10-hours. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is considering public input on this exemption until September 21^st.

We can do something about this! The APWU urges everyone who cares about safety on the road to submit a comment opposing the exemption.

The APWU is renewing warnings about the dangers posed by sleep-deprived truck drivers and asking union members and the public to oppose this exemption by taking action. An exemption would pose a serious danger to motorists and pedestrians. It also would make it easier and cheaper for postal management to outsource U.S. Postal Service work – OUR WORK.

The National Star Route Mail Contractors Association (NSRMCA), the trade group seeking the exemption, represents approximately 17,000 large and small companies that transport mail for the Postal Service in trucks of various sizes. Many of the Star Route companies are so small that their drivers are exempt from drug and alcohol tests that Postal Service drivers are required to take. This only magnifies the danger!

Safety First. Add your voice to the fight! Oppose the exemption!

Click here to make a comment by Sept. 21 opposing this dangerous practice.