Extreme Logistics and the American Pyrotechnics Association are seeking exemptions from certain stipulations of the 14-hour rule as mandated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. Extreme Logistics, a fireworks display company, and the American Pyrotechnics Association, which represents the fireworks industry, claim that with the upcoming Independence Day holiday season drawing close, the current stipulations of the 14-hour rule impart an undue financial hardship not only on themselves but on the cities and municipalities that have brokered deals for their services. In order to comply with the 14-hour rule and still meet their obligations, additional drivers per shipment would need to be hired, increasing costs for both the company and their customers.
Safety concerns have been addressed by both groups, pointing to their impeccable safety records and short haul distances that will encompass the majority of transportation for events. This will be the first exemption request for Extreme Logistics. The American Pyrotechnics Association has operated with this exemption for the previous twelve Independence Day holiday seasons without a single safety issue.
The APA membership is made up of over 250 member companies comprised of manufacturers, distributors, importers, wholesalers, suppliers and professional display companies. The exemptions gained by the APA for its members are a meaningful achievement because the new rules imposed by FMCSA do not appear to enhance the level of safety already well established within the membership for the limited period of time during the season. Safety will continue without undue hardship and expense for seasonal providers of fireworks as a traditional part of our July 4th celebrations.
