Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Vision

Larry W. Minor
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
April 1, 2014

[Federal Register Volume 79, Number 62 (Tuesday, April 1, 2014)]
[Notices]
[Pages 18392-18400]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2014-07215]


-----------------------------------------------------------------------

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

[Docket No. FMCSA-2014-0004]


Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Vision

AGENCY: Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of applications for exemptions; request for comments.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: FMCSA announces receipt of applications from 66 individuals 
for exemption from the vision requirement in the Federal Motor Carrier 
Safety Regulations. They are unable to meet the vision requirement in 
one eye for various reasons. The exemptions will enable these 
individuals to operate commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in interstate 
commerce without meeting the prescribed vision requirement in one eye. 
If granted, the exemptions would enable these individuals to qualify as 
drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in interstate commerce.

DATES: Comments must be received on or before May 1, 2014.

ADDRESSES: You may submit comments bearing the Federal Docket 
Management

[[Page 18393]]

System (FDMS) Docket No. FMCSA-2014-0004 using any of the following 
methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the on-line instructions for submitting 
comments.
     Mail: Docket Management Facility; U.S. Department of 
Transportation, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., West Building Ground Floor, 
Room W12-140, Washington, DC 20590-0001.
     Hand Delivery: West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 
1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., 
Monday through Friday, except Federal Holidays.
     Fax: 1-202-493-2251.
    Instructions: Each submission must include the Agency name and the 
docket numbers for this notice. Note that all comments received will be 
posted without change to http://www.regulations.gov, including any 
personal information provided. Please see the Privacy Act heading below 
for further information.
    Docket: For access to the docket to read background documents or 
comments, go to http://www.regulations.gov at any time or Room W12-140 
on the ground level of the West Building, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., 
Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, 
except Federal holidays. The FDMS is available 24 hours each day, 365 
days each year. If you want acknowledgment that we received your 
comments, please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope or postcard 
or print the acknowledgement page that appears after submitting 
comments on-line.
    Privacy Act: Anyone may search the electronic form of all comments 
received into any of our dockets by the name of the individual 
submitting the comment (or of the person signing the comment, if 
submitted on behalf of an association, business, labor union, etc.). 
You may review DOT's Privacy Act Statement for the Federal Docket 
Management System (FDMS) published in the Federal Register on January 
17, 2008 (73 FR 3316).

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Elaine M. Papp, Chief, Medical 
Programs Division, (202) 366-4001, fmcsamedical@dot.gov, FMCSA, 
Department of Transportation, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Room W64-224, 
Washington, DC 20590-0001. Office hours are from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., 
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Background

    Under 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, FMCSA may grant an exemption 
from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations for a 2-year period 
if it finds ``such exemption would likely achieve a level of safety 
that is equivalent to or greater than the level that would be achieved 
absent such exemption.'' FMCSA can renew exemptions at the end of each 
2-year period. The 66 individuals listed in this notice have each 
requested such an exemption from the vision requirement in 49 CFR 
391.41(b)(10), which applies to drivers of CMVs in interstate commerce. 
Accordingly, the Agency will evaluate the qualifications of each 
applicant to determine whether granting an exemption will achieve the 
required level of safety mandated by statute.

Qualifications of Applicants

Britton J. Anderson

    Mr. Anderson, age 22, has had amblyopia in his left eye since 
birth. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/20, and in his left 
eye, 20/60. Following an examination in 2014, his optometrist stated, 
``I certify this individual has sufficient vision to perform the 
driving tasks required to operate a commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Anderson 
reported that he has driven straight trucks for 3 years, accumulating 
8,190 miles, and tractor-trailer combinations for 3 years, accumulating 
19,110 miles. He holds a Class A commercial driver's license (CDL) from 
Kansas. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no crashes and no 
convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Rodney R. Anderson

    Mr. Anderson, 58, has had a central scar in his right eye since 
1974. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/400, and in his left 
eye, 20/20. Following an examination in 2014, his optometrist stated, 
``Mr. Anderson has sufficient vision to drive commercial vehicles.'' 
Mr. Anderson reported that he has driven tractor-trailer combinations 
for 40 years, accumulating 5.6 million miles. He holds a Class AM CDL 
from Pennsylvania. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no 
crashes and no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Kenneth R. Anselm

    Mr. Anselm, 66, has had ocular histoplasmosis in his right eye 
since 1993. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/70, and in his 
left eye, 20/20. Following an examination in 2013, his optometrist 
stated, ``It is my medical opinion that Mr. Kenneth Anselm has 
sufficient vision to perform the driving tasks required to operate a 
commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Anselm reported that he has driven straight 
trucks for 30 years, accumulating 750,000 miles. He holds an operator's 
license from Kentucky. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no 
crashes and no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

James E. Baker

    Mr. Baker, 49, has a prosthetic right eye due to a traumatic 
incident in 1999. The visual acuity in his right eye is no light 
perception, and in his left eye, 20/15. Following an examination in 
2013, his optometrist stated, ``I feel that this patient can visually 
operate a commercial vehicle safely.'' Mr. Baker reported that he has 
driven tractor-trailer combinations for 15 years, accumulating 1.65 
million miles. He holds a Class A CDL from Ohio. His driving record for 
the last 3 years shows 1 crash, for which he was not cited, and 1 
conviction for a moving violation in a CMV; he exceeded the posted 
speed limit.

Alphonso A. Barco

    Mr. Barco, 41, has had a corneal scar in his left eye since 
childhood. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/20, and in his left 
eye, 20/200. Following an examination in 2014, his optometrist stated, 
``In my professional opinion Mr. Barco has sufficient vision to operate 
a commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Barco reported that he has driven straight 
trucks for 5 years, accumulating 150,000 miles. He holds a Class B CDL 
from South Carolina. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no 
crashes and no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Aaron D. Barnett

    Mr. Barnett, 37, has had strabismic amblyopia in his left eye since 
birth. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/20, and in his left 
eye, 20/200. Following an examination in 2013, his optometrist stated, 
``In my medical opinion, Aaron has sufficient vision to perform the 
driving tasks required to operate a commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Barnett 
reported that he has driven straight trucks for 7 years, accumulating 
102,200 miles, and tractor-trailer combinations for 7 years, 
accumulating 14,000 miles. He holds a Class A CDL from Iowa. His 
driving record for the last 3 years shows no crashes and no convictions 
for moving violations in a CMV.

Daniel W. Bobb

    Mr. Bobb, 38, has had a corneal ulcer in his left eye since 2001. 
The visual

[[Page 18394]]

acuity in his right eye is 20/20, and in his left eye, 20/100. 
Following an examination in 2013, his ophthalmologist stated, ``In my 
medical opinion, there is sufficient vision to operate a commercial 
vehicle from here to California and back without any limits other than 
imposed by the D.O.T. [sic] for sleep.'' Mr. Bobb reported that he has 
driven straight trucks for 12 years, accumulating 24,000 miles, 
tractor-trailer combinations for 12 years, accumulating 600,000 miles, 
and buses for 5 years, accumulating 75,000 miles. He holds a Class AM 
CDL from Pennsylvania. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no 
crashes and no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Anatoliy A. Bogdanets

    Mr. Bogdanets, 55, has had lens opacity in his left eye since 
birth. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/20, and in his left 
eye, hand motion. Following an examination in 2013, his optometrist 
stated, ``Vision Loss [sic] OS should not impair ability to drive with 
a [sic] commercial vehicle safely.'' Mr. Bogdanets reported that he has 
driven tractor-trailer combinations for 2.5 years, accumulating 540,000 
miles. He holds a Class A CDL from Oregon. His driving record for the 
last 3 years shows no crashes and no convictions for moving violations 
in a CMV.

Stanley R. Cap

    Mr. Cap, 78, has had a macular scar in his right eye since 2005. 
The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/200, and in his left eye, 20/
30. Following an examination in 2013, his optometrist stated, ``I 
certify that, in my medical opinion, this patient has sufficient vision 
to operate a commercial motor vehicle.'' Mr. Cap reported that he has 
driven straight trucks for 10 years, accumulating 200,000 miles, and 
tractor-trailer combinations for 60 years, accumulating 1.5 million 
miles. He holds a Class A CDL from South Dakota. His driving record for 
the last 3 years shows no crashes and no convictions for moving 
violations in a CMV.

Louis Castro

    Mr. Castro, 33, has had amblyopia in his right eye since birth. The 
visual acuity in his right eye is 20/50, and in his left eye, 20/15. 
Following an examination in 2014, his optometrist stated, ``Vision is 
sufficient to perform CMV driving task day and night.'' Mr. Castro 
reported that he has driven straight trucks for 8 years, accumulating 
108,000 miles, and tractor-trailer combinations for 1 year, 
accumulating 12,000 miles. He holds a Class A CDL from Montana. His 
driving record for the last 3 years shows no crashes and no convictions 
for moving violations in a CMV.

David F. Cialdea

    Mr. Cialdea, 55, has a cataract in his left eye due to a traumatic 
incident in childhood. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/25, and 
in his left eye, no light perception. Following an examination in 2013, 
his ophthalmologist stated, ``Mr. David Cialdea had trauma to his left 
eye resulting in a traumatic cataract . . . I see no reason in my 
medical opinion that he could not operate a commercial vehicle.'' Mr. 
Cialdea reported that he has driven straight trucks for 40 years, 
accumulating 700,000 miles, and tractor-trailer combinations for 2 
years, accumulating 2,000 miles. He holds a Class A CDL from 
Massachusetts. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no crashes 
and no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Bobby E. Collins

    Mr. Collins, 51, has had amblyopia in his right eye since 
childhood. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/400, and in his 
left eye, 20/20. Following an examination in 2013, his ophthalmologist 
stated, ``I certify the Mr. Collins has sufficient vision to perform 
the driving tasks required to operate a commercial vehicle.'' Mr. 
Collins reported that he has driven straight trucks for 5 years, 
accumulating 175,000 miles, and tractor-trailer combinations for 5 
years, accumulating 250,000 miles. He holds a Class A CDL from North 
Carolina. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no crashes and 
no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Michael T. Craddock

    Mr. Craddock, 52, has had amblyopia in his right eye since birth. 
The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/300, and in his left eye, 20/
20. Following an examination in 2013, his optometrist stated, ``Pt 
[sic] is not color blind and in my opinion, should be able to drive a 
commercial vehicle safely.'' Mr. Craddock reported that he has driven 
tractor-trailer combinations for 1 year, accumulating 120,000 miles. He 
holds a Class A CDL from California. His driving record for the last 3 
years shows no crashes and no convictions for moving violations in a 
CMV.

Eric C. Dettrey

    Mr. Dettrey, 49, has a prosthetic left eye due to a traumatic 
incident in childhood. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/20, and 
in his left eye, no light perception. Following an examination in 2013, 
his optometrist stated, ``Eric has excellent correctable vision in his 
right eye, sufficient to operate a commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Dettrey 
reported that he has driven straight trucks for 26 years, accumulating 
26,000 miles, and tractor-trailer combinations for 26 years, 
accumulating 26,000 miles. He holds a Class A CDL from New Jersey. His 
driving record for the last 3 years shows no crashes and no convictions 
for moving violations in a CMV.

Dean E. Dexter

    Mr. Dexter, 71, has had amblyopia in his right eye since childhood. 
The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/200, and in his left eye, 20/
20. Following an examination in 2014, his optometrist stated, ``It is 
my opinion Mr. Dexter has sufficient vision to perform the driving 
tasks required to operate a commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Dexter reported 
that he has driven tractor-trailer combinations for 40 years, 
accumulating 5 million miles. He holds a Class A3 CDL from South 
Dakota. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no crashes and 
one conviction for a moving violation in a CMV; he exceeded the speed 
limit by 6 mph.

Blaine R. Dickman

    Mr. Dickman, 57, has had a prosthetic right eye since childhood. 
The visual acuity in his right eye is no light perception, and in his 
left eye, 20/20. Following an examination in 2013, his optometrist 
stated that Mr. Dickman's condition will not affect his ability to 
drive a motor vehicle safely and the he should be issued a commercial 
medical waiver and be permitted to drive a commercial motor vehicle on 
an intrastate basis. Mr. Dickman reported that he has driven buses for 
15 years, accumulating 82,500 miles. He holds a Class B CDL from 
Nevada. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no crashes and no 
convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

David C. Dockery

    Mr. Dockery, 49, has had a macular scar in his left eye since 2000. 
The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/20, and in his left eye, 
counting fingers. Following an examination in 2014, his ophthalmologist 
stated, ``Mr. Dockery has a visual acuity of 20/20 in the right eye and 
count [sic] fingers at one foot in the left eye . . . I believe he is 
safe to operate a commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Dockery reported that he 
has driven tractor-trailer combinations for 24 years, accumulating 1.8 
million miles. He holds a Class A CDL from California.

[[Page 18395]]

His driving record for the last 3 years shows no crashes and no 
convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Timothy C. Dotson

    Mr. Dotson, 46, has a prosthetic left eye due to a traumatic 
incident in 1998. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/20, and in 
his left eye, no light perception. Following an examination in 2013, 
his optometrist stated, ``It is my opinion that Mr. Dotson possesses 
adequate vision to operate a commercial motor vehicle safely.'' Mr. 
Dotson reported that he has driven tractor-trailer combinations for 28 
years, accumulating 3.08 million miles. He holds a Class A CDL from 
Missouri. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no crashes and 
no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Barent H. Eliason

    Mr. Eliason, 44, has a macular scar in his left eye due to a 
traumatic incident during childhood. The visual acuity in his right eye 
is 20/20, and in his left eye, 20/200. Following an examination in 
2013, his optometrist stated, ``He is able in my opinion to operate and 
maintain a commercial vehicle, and perform the driving tasks 
required.'' Mr. Eliason reported that he has driven straight trucks for 
23 years, accumulating 402,500 miles, and tractor-trailer combinations 
for 23 years, accumulating 276,000 miles. He holds a Class A CDL from 
Missouri. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no crashes and 
no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Peter D. J. Ensor

    Mr. Ensor, 71, has had congenital amblyopia in his left eye since 
birth. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/25, and in his left 
eye, 20/400. Following an examination in 2014, his optometrist stated, 
``I, Dr. Nguyen Ly, certifies [sic] Peter Ensor has sufficient vision 
to perform the driving tasks required to operate a commercial 
vehicle.'' Mr. Ensor reported that he has driven straight trucks for 53 
years, accumulating 424,000 miles. He holds an operator's license from 
Maryland. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no crashes and 
no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Paul W. Fettig

    Mr. Fettig, 39, has had optic nerve damage in his right eye since 
childhood. The visual acuity in his right eye is hand motion, and in 
his left eye, 20/20. Following an examination in 2014, his optometrist 
stated, ``Based on my examination on 2/10/2014, it is my opinion that 
Mr. Fettig's optic nerve damage is stable. . .In my professional 
opinion, I feel the Mr. Fettig is fully capable of safely operating a 
commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Fettig reported that he has driven straight 
trucks for 17 years, accumulating 850,000 miles. He holds a Class B CDL 
from South Dakota. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no 
crashes and no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Roger L. Frazier

    Mr. Frazier, 50, has a macular scar in his left eye due to a 
traumatic incident in 1997. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/
20, and in his left eye, 20/70. Following an examination in 2014, his 
ophthalmologist stated, ``Roger Frazier is currently a patient at 
Graystone Eye. He has a history significant for a macular scar from 
multiple retinal surgeries of the left eye. . .It is my medical opinion 
that he should still be able to maintain a commercial drivers' [sic] 
license.'' Mr. Frazier reported that he has driven straight trucks for 
14 years, accumulating 126,000 miles. He holds an operator's license 
from North Carolina. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no 
crashes and no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Joey W. Freeman

    Mr. Freeman, 52, has had amblyopia in his left eye since childhood. 
The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/20, and in his left eye, 20/
50. Following an examination in 2013, his optometrist stated, ``In my 
professional opinion Mr. Freeman has sufficient vision to operate a 
commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Freeman reported that he has driven straight 
trucks for 40 years, accumulating 400,000 miles. He holds an operator's 
license from Arkansas. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no 
crashes and no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Kevin L. Fritz

    Mr. Fritz, 35, has had a macular scar in his left eye since 
childhood. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/15, and in his left 
eye, 20/100. Following an examination in 2013, his optometrist stated, 
``In my opinion, Kevin has sufficient vision to perform the driving 
tasks required to operate a commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Fritz reported 
that he has driven straight trucks for 15 years, accumulating 120,000 
miles. He holds a Class AM CDL from Illinois. His driving record for 
the last 3 years shows no crashes and no convictions for moving 
violations in a CMV.

Grant G. Gibson

    Mr. Gibson, 42, has had amblyopia in his left eye since birth. The 
visual acuity in his right eye is 20/15, and in his left eye, counting 
fingers. Following an examination in 2013, his optometrist stated, ``In 
my opinion, Mr. Gibson has sufficient vision to perform the driving 
tasks required to operate a commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Gibson reported 
that he has driven straight trucks for 9 years, accumulating 304,200 
miles. He holds a Class B CDL from Minnesota. His driving record for 
the last 3 years shows no crashes and no convictions for moving 
violations in a CMV.

Danny J. Goss

    Mr. Goss, 54, has complete loss of vision in his left eye due to a 
traumatic incident during childhood. The visual acuity in his right eye 
is 20/20, and in his left eye, light perception. Following an 
examination in 2013, his optometrist stated, ``I certify that, in my 
medical opinion, this patient has sufficient vision to operate a 
commercial motor vehicle.'' Mr. Goss reported that he has driven 
straight trucks for 35 years, accumulating 70,000 miles. He holds a 
Class B CDL from Missouri. His driving record for the last 3 years 
shows no crashes and no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Todd C. Grider

    Mr. Grider, 33, has a prosthetic right eye due to a traumatic 
incident in childhood. The visual acuity in his right eye is no light 
perception, and in his left eye, 20/15. Following an examination in 
2013, his optometrist stated, ``In my professional medical opinion Mr. 
Grider meets the visual requirements needed to perform driving tasks 
required to operate a commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Grider reported that he 
has driven straight trucks for 8 years, accumulating 344,000 miles. He 
holds an operator's license from Indiana. His driving record for the 
last 3 years shows no crashes and no convictions for moving violations 
in a CMV.

James P. Griffin

    Mr. Griffin, 67, has optic nerve damage in his right eye due to a 
traumatic incident during childhood. The visual acuity in his right eye 
is 20/60, and in his left eye, 20/20. Following an examination in 2013, 
his optometrist stated, ``In my professional opinion, Mr. Griffin has 
more than sufficient vision to operate a commercial vehicle as he has 
done safely for 10 years.'' Mr. Griffin reported that he has driven 
straight trucks for 6.25 years, accumulating 390,625 miles, and 
tractor-trailer combinations for 2 years,

[[Page 18396]]

accumulating 250,000 miles. He holds a Class A CDL from Washington. His 
driving record for the last 3 years shows no crashes and 1 conviction 
for a moving violation in a CMV; he was following another vehicle too 
closely.

Dennis P. Hart

    Mr. Hart, 58, has had amblyopia in his right eye since birth. The 
visual acuity in his right eye is 20/200, and in his left eye, 20/20. 
Following an examination in 2013, his ophthalmologist stated, ``In my 
opinion Mr. Hart is safe to operate a commercial vehicle with his 
current level of vision.'' Mr. Hart reported that he has driven 
straight trucks for 39 years, accumulating 39,000 miles, and tractor-
trailer combinations for 5 years, accumulating 1,500 miles. He holds a 
Class A CDL from Oregon. His driving record for the last 3 years shows 
no crashes and no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Kyle C. Holschlag

    Mr. Holschlag, 23, has had amblyopia in his left eye since 
childhood. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/20, and in his left 
eye, 20/70. Following an examination in 2013, his optometrist stated, 
``In my opinion, Mr. Holschlag has sufficient vision to perform all of 
the driving and tasks required to operate a commercial vehicle.'' Mr. 
Holschlag reported that he has driven straight trucks for 0.5 years, 
accumulating 400 miles, tractor-trailer combinations for 3 years, 
accumulating 15,000 miles. He holds a Class A CDL from Iowa. His 
driving record for the last 3 years shows no crashes and no convictions 
for moving violations in a CMV.

Michael T. Huso

    Mr. Huso, 52, has had a macular lesion in his right eye since 2006. 
The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/400, and in his left eye, 20/
25. Following an examination in 2014, his optometrist stated, ``In my 
opinion Michael has sufficient vision to perform the driving tasks 
required to operate a commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Huso reported that he 
has driven straight trucks for 5 years, accumulating 300,000 miles, 
tractor-trailer combinations for 27 years, accumulating 2.03 million 
miles. He holds a Class A CDL from Minnesota. His driving record for 
the last 3 years shows no crashes and no convictions for moving 
violations in a CMV.

Earl E. Kennedy III

    Mr. Kennedy, 39, has had congenital amblyopia in his left eye since 
birth. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/20, and in his left 
eye, 20/100. Following an examination in 2013, his optometrist stated, 
``In my medical opinion, Mr. Kennedy has sufficient vision to perform 
the tasks required to operate a commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Kennedy 
reported that he has driven straight trucks for 13 years, accumulating 
19,500 miles, and tractor-trailer combinations for 13 years, 
accumulating 32,500 miles. He holds an operator's license from 
Pennsylvania. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no crashes 
and no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

James D. Kessler

    Mr. Kessler, 49, has a corneal laceration in his right eye due to a 
traumatic incident in childhood. The visual acuity in his right eye is 
counting fingers, and in his left eye, 20/15. Following an examination 
in 2014, his optometrist stated, ``From my examination with Jim 
Kessler, it is my medical opinion that he has sufficient vision to 
drive and operate a commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Kessler reported that he 
has driven straight trucks for 35 years, accumulating 35,000 miles, and 
tractor-trailer combinations for 18 years, accumulating 2.16 million 
miles. He holds a Class A CDL from South Dakota. His driving record for 
the last 3 years shows no crashes and no convictions for moving 
violations in a CMV.

Eric W. Kopmann

    Mr. Kopmann, 29, has had scar tissue in his left eye since 2002. 
The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/20, and in his left eye, 20/
50. Following an examination in 2014, his optometrist stated, ``In my 
opinion Eric has sufficient vision to operate a commercial vehicle.'' 
Mr. Kopmann reported that he has driven straight trucks for 4 years, 
accumulating 2,000 miles. He holds a Class B CDL from Missouri. His 
driving record for the last 3 years shows no crashes and no convictions 
for moving violations in a CMV.

Robin D. Kurtz

    Mr. Kurtz, 52, has had amblyopia in his right eye since birth. The 
visual acuity in his right eye is 20/70, and in his left eye, 20/25. 
Following an examination in 2013, his optometrist stated, ``In my 
opinion, Mr [sic] Robin D. Kurtz has sufficient vision to perform the 
driving tasks required to operate a commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Kurtz 
reported that he has driven straight trucks for 30 years, accumulating 
2.4 million miles. He holds a Class A CDL from Connecticut. His driving 
record for the last 3 years shows no crashes and no convictions for 
moving violations in a CMV.

Sherell J. Landry

    Mr. Landry, 65, has had refractive amblyopia in his left eye since 
birth. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/20, and in his left 
eye, 20/80. Following an examination in 2013, his optometrist stated, 
``As a result of our testing and evaluation, in my medical opinion Mr. 
Landry has sufficient vision to perform the driving tasks required to 
operate a commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Landry reported that he has driven 
straight trucks for 6 months, accumulating 10,000 miles, and tractor-
trailer combinations for 20 years, accumulating 500,000 miles. He holds 
a Class A CDL from Texas. His driving record for the last 3 years shows 
no crashes and no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

George E. Lewis

    Mr. Lewis, 56, has had a macular scar in his right eye since the 
1990s. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/80, and in his left 
eye, 20/20. Following an examination in 2013, his ophthalmologist 
stated, ``I do believe this amount of vision would be sufficient vision 
to perform driving tasks required to operate a commercial vehicle.'' 
Mr. Lewis reported that he has driven tractor-trailer combinations for 
27 years, accumulating 3.375 million miles. He holds a Class A CDL from 
Ohio. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no crashes and no 
convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Ronald N. Lindgren

    Mr. Lindgren, 61, has had refractive amblyopia in his right eye 
since childhood. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/150, and in 
his left eye, 20/20. Following an examination in 2013, his optometrist 
stated, ``PT [sic] is ok medically to operate a commercial motor 
vehicle.'' Mr. Lindgren reported that he has driven straight trucks for 
36.5 years, accumulating 912,500 miles, tractor-trailer combinations 
for 5 years, accumulating 50,000 miles, and buses for 7 years, 
accumulating 175,000 miles. He holds a Class A CDL from Minnesota. His 
driving record for the last 3 years shows no crashes and no convictions 
for moving violations in a CMV.

James L. Maddox

    Mr. Maddox, 72, has complete loss of vision in his left eye due to 
a traumatic incident in 1975. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/
20, and in his left eye, no light perception. Following an

[[Page 18397]]

examination in 2014, his optometrist stated, ``The patient has 
sufficient vision in the right eye to perform the driving tasks 
required to operate a commercial vehicle in my opinion.'' Mr. Maddox 
reported that he has driven straight trucks for 10.5 years, 
accumulating 147,000 miles. He holds an operator's license from 
Georgia. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no crashes and 
no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Robert P. Malarkey, Sr.

    Mr. Malarkey, 58, has had aphakia in his right eye since childhood. 
The visual acuity in his right eye is no light perception, and in his 
left eye, 20/20. Following an examination in 2013, his ophthalmologist 
stated, ``His vision should be sufficient to operate a commercial motor 
vehicle but the final decision should be made by the Department of 
Transportation.'' Mr. Malarkey reported that he has driven straight 
trucks for 38 years, accumulating 950,000 miles. He holds a Class BM 
CDL from New York. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no 
crashes and no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Michael L. Manning

    Mr. Manning, 47, has had a total retinal detachment in his right 
eye since childhood. The visual acuity in his right eye is no light 
perception, and in his left eye, 20/25. Following an examination in 
2014, his optometrist stated, ``In my medical opinion Michael will have 
sufficient vision to perform the driving tasks required to operate a 
commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Manning reported that he has driven tractor-
trailer combinations for 25 years, accumulating 375,000 miles. He holds 
a Class A CDL from Missouri. His driving record for the last 3 years 
shows no crashes and no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Philip D. Mathys

    Mr. Mathys, 64, has amblyopia and central corneal scarring in his 
right eye due to a traumatic incident during childhood. The visual 
acuity in his right eye is counting fingers, and in his left eye, 20/
20. Following an examination in 2013, his optometrist stated, ``He has 
a history of amblyopia since childhood in the right eye from an injury 
and has lived with this deficit for 60 years. He should not have 
problems operating a commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Mathys reported that he 
has driven tractor-trailer combinations for 18 years, accumulating 1.22 
million miles. He holds a Class A CDL from Ohio. His driving record for 
the last 3 years shows no crashes and no convictions for moving 
violations in a CMV.

Rodney J. McMorran

    Mr. McMorran, 46, has had a cataract in his left eye since birth. 
The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/20, and in his left eye, light 
perception. Following an examination in 2014, his optometrist stated, 
``It is my understanding Mr. McMorran has demonstrated past 
proficicency in driving commercially. Most people with congenital 
vision loss will function much better for almost all vision tasks 
compared to those that lose vision as adults. People that lose function 
at an early age like Mr. McMorran adapt head positions and vision cues 
that compensate for loss in visual field and binocularity. This 
adaptation, in many cases, would allow them to function at a 
satisfactory level for commercial driving.'' Mr. McMorran reported that 
he has driven straight trucks for 15 years, accumulating 75,000 miles, 
and tractor-trailer combinations for 15 years, accumulating 75,000 
miles. He holds a Class A CDL from Iowa. His driving record for the 
last 3 years shows no crashes and no convictions for moving violations 
in a CMV.

Johnny L. Meese

    Mr. Meese, 59, has complete loss of vision in his right eye due to 
a traumatic incident in childhood. The visual acuity in his right eye 
is no light perception, and in his left eye, 20/20. Following an 
examination in 2013, his optometrist stated, ``I believe that Mr. Meese 
has sufficient vision to perform the driving tasks required to operate 
a commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Meese reported that he has driven straight 
trucks for 20 years, accumulating 100,000 miles, and buses for 3.5 
years, accumulating 44,450 miles. He holds a Class A CDL from Missouri. 
His driving record for the last 3 years shows no crashes and no 
convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Corey L. Morman

    Mr. Morman, 43, has had a detached retina in his right eye since 
2003. The visual acuity in his right eye is no light perception, and in 
his left eye, 20/20. Following an examination in 2013, his optometrist 
stated, ``I certify that, in my opinion, Mr. Morman has adequate vision 
to perform the driving tasks required to operate a commercial 
vehicle.'' Mr. Morman reported that he has driven tractor-trailer 
combinations for 6 years, accumulating 600,000 miles. He holds a Class 
A CDL from Florida. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no 
crashes and no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Jaime P. Narte, Jr.

    Mr. Narte, 59, has had keratoconus in his left eye since 1983. The 
visual acuity in his right eye is 20/20, and in his left eye, 20/400. 
Following an examination in 2013, his ophthalmologist stated, ``There 
is no question that Mr. Norte [sic] has sufficient vision to operate a 
commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Narte reported that he has driven tractor-
trailer combinations for 7 years, accumulating 350,000 miles. He holds 
a Class A CDL from Washington. His driving record for the last 3 years 
shows no crashes and no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

James M. Nohl

    Mr. Nohl, 47, has enucleation in his left eye due to a traumatic 
incident in 2000. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/15, and in 
his left eye, no light perception. Following an examination in 2014, 
his optometrist stated, ``With normal visual acuity and vision fields 
OD, I feel he has sufficient vision to operate a commercial vehicle.'' 
Mr. Nohl reported that he has driven straight trucks for 4 years, 
accumulating 187,200 miles. He holds an operator's license from 
Minnesota. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no crashes and 
no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Thomas G. Ohlson

    Mr. Ohlson, 56, has had amblyopia in his left eye since birth. The 
visual acuity in his right eye is 20/25, and in his left eye, 20/150. 
Following an examination in 2014, his ophthalmologist stated, 
``Although the left eye is amblyopic with a best corrected visual 
acuity of 20/150, it still retains useful vision and contributes to his 
peripheral vision that is consistent with a fully functioning normal 
visual field. I would not hesitate to allow him to retain his status as 
a commercial driver.'' Mr. Ohlson reported that he has driven straight 
trucks for 11 years, accumulating 110,000 miles. He holds an operator's 
license from New York. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no 
crashes and no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Jason S. Otto

    Mr. Otto, 33, has had amblyopia in his right eye since birth. The 
visual acuity in his right eye is 20/80, and in his left eye, 20/20. 
Following an examination in 2014, his optometrist stated, ``In my 
medical opinion, the patient has sufficient visual capabilities to 
perform the tasks required to operate a commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Otto 
reported that he has driven straight trucks for 5.5 years, accumulating 
41,250 miles. He

[[Page 18398]]

holds an operator's license from Kentucky. His driving record for the 
last 3 years shows no crashes and no convictions for moving violations 
in a CMV.

Nathan J. Price

    Mr. Price, 36, has a macular scar in his left eye due to a 
traumatic incident that occurred in 2006. The visual acuity in his 
right eye is 20/20, and in his left eye, 20/600. Following an 
examination in 2014, his optometrist stated, ``Patient has sufficient 
vision to perform the driving tasks required to operate a commerciail 
[sic] vehicle and has sufficient color vision for traffic light 
identification.'' Mr. Price reported that he has driven tractor-trailer 
combinations for 1.7 years, accumulating 34,000 miles. He holds a Class 
A CDL from Idaho. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no 
crashes and no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Robert D. Reeder

    Mr. Reeder, 55, has had amblyopia secondary to strabismus in his 
right eye since childhood. The visual acuity in his right eye is 5/400, 
and in his left eye, 20/25. Following an examination in 2014, his 
optometrist stated, ``In my opinion Mr. Reeder has sufficient vision to 
perform the driving tasks required to operate a commercial vehicle.'' 
Mr. Reeder reported that he has driven tractor-trailer combinations for 
9 years, accumulating 675,000 miles. He holds a Class CA CDL from 
Michigan. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no crashes and 
no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Ricky L. Rice

    Mr. Rice, 49, has complete loss of vision in his left eye due to a 
traumatic incident in 1988. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/
20, and in his left eye, no light perception. Following an examination 
in 2014, his optometrist stated that, in his medical opinion, Mr. Rice 
does have sufficient vision to operate a commercial motor vehicle. Mr. 
Rice reported that he has driven straight trucks for 7 years, 
accumulating 612,500 miles, and tractor-trailer combinations for 15 
years, accumulating 1.313 million miles. He holds a Class A CDL from 
Pennsylvania. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no crashes 
and no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Johnnie K. Richard

    Mr. Richard, 53, has had retinal scarring in his left eye due to a 
traumatic incident in 1983. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/
15, and in his left eye, 20/100. Following an examination in 2013, his 
optometrist stated, ``It is my professional opinion that Mr. Richard 
has sufficient vision to operate a commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Richard 
reported that he has driven tractor-trailer combinations for 30 years, 
accumulating 1.8 million miles. He holds a Class A CDL from Louisiana. 
His driving record for the last 3 years shows no crashes and no 
convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Jorge L. Y. Rivera

    Mr. Rivera, 28, has had exotropia with amblyopia and keratoconus in 
his left eye since childhood. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/
20, and in his left eye, 20/70. Following an examination in 2014, his 
optometrist stated that, in his medical opinion, Mr. Rivera does have 
sufficient vision to operate a commercial motor vehicle. Mr. Rivera 
reported that he has driven straight trucks for 6 years, accumulating 
30,000 miles, and tractor-trailer combinations for 1 year, accumulating 
3,000 miles. He holds a Class A CDL from California. His driving record 
for the last 3 years shows no crashes and no convictions for moving 
violations in a CMV.

Craig Robinson

    Mr. Robinson, 53, has a macular hole in his left eye due to a 
traumatic incident in 1984. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/
20, and in his left eye, 20/200. Following an examination in 2014, his 
ophthalmologist stated, ``I, Carl Danzig, MD, state that in my best 
medical opinion Craig Robinson has significant vision to perform the 
driving tasks required to operate a commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Robinson 
reported that he has driven tractor-trailer combinations for 5 years, 
accumulating 175,000 miles. He holds a Class A CDL from Florida. His 
driving record for the last 3 years shows no crashes and no convictions 
for moving violations in a CMV.

Michael E. Schlachter

    Mr. Schlachter, 23, has had amblyopia in his left eye since birth. 
The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/15, and in his left eye, 20/
50. Following an examination in 2013, his optometrist stated, ``Mr. 
Schlachter has sufficient vision and visual skills to safely operate a 
commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Schlachter reported that he has driven 
straight trucks for 1 year, accumulating 4,000 miles. He holds a Class 
AM CDL from Wyoming. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no 
crashes and no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Kenneth W. Sigl

    Mr. Sigl, 48, has had a macular hole, epiretinal membrane, and a 
cataract in his left eye since 2006. The visual acuity in his right eye 
is 20/20, and in his left eye, 20/70. Following an examination in 2013, 
his ophthalmologist stated that, in his medical opinion, Mr. Sigl does 
have sufficient vision to operate a commercial motor vehicle. Mr. Sigl 
reported that he has driven straight trucks for 22 years, accumulating 
110,000 miles. He holds a Class ABCDM CDL from Wisconsin. His driving 
record for the last 3 years shows no crashes and no convictions for 
moving violations in a CMV.

Robert A. Simpson

    Mr. Simpson, 62, has had amblyopia in his right eye since birth. 
The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/200, and in his left eye, 20/
20. Following an examination in 2013, his optometrist stated, ``At this 
time his best corrected visual acuities are 20/200 right eye and 20/20 
left eye . . . Mr. Simpson states he has been driving commercially for 
about 18 years accident free. Based solely on his solid driving record 
and visual field results, I believe his vision should allow him to 
continue along his career path.'' Mr. Simpson reported that he has 
driven straight trucks for 18 years, accumulating 540,000 miles. He 
holds a Class A CDL from Mississippi. His driving record for the last 3 
years shows no crashes and no convictions for moving violations in a 
CMV.

Jeffrey L. Singley

    Mr. Singley, 57, has had congenital retinal damage and coloboma in 
his right eye since birth. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/
400, and in his left eye, 20/20. Following an examination in 2013, his 
optometrist stated, ``In my opinion Mr. Singley has sufficient vision 
to perform commercial driving tasks.'' Mr. Singley reported that he has 
driven straight trucks for 3 years, accumulating 60,000 miles. He holds 
an operator's license from Maryland. His driving record for the last 3 
years shows no crashes and no convictions for moving violations in a 
CMV.

Dennis Torrence

    Mr. Torrence, 52, has a central retinal artery occlusion in his 
left eye since 2009. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/20, and 
in his left eye, 20/300. Following an examination in 2013, his 
optometrist stated, ``I do not foresee any problems with him driving 
commercially in regard to his visual status.'' Mr. Torrence reported 
that he has driven straight trucks for 6 years, accumulating 240,000 
miles, and

[[Page 18399]]

tractor-trailer combinations for 22 years, accumulating 2.2 million 
miles. He holds a Class ABCD CDL from Wisconsin. His driving record for 
the last 3 years shows no crashes and no convictions for moving 
violations in a CMV.

Julie J. Walsh

    Ms. Walsh, 40, has had a congenital cataract in her left eye since 
birth. The visual acuity in her right eye is 20/20, and in her left 
eye, light perception. Following an examination in 2013, her 
optometrist stated, ``She is able to safely perform driving tasks with 
her right eye vision.'' Ms. Walsh reported that she has driven straight 
trucks for 1 year, accumulating 10,000 miles. She holds an operator's 
license from North Dakota. Her driving record for the last 3 years 
shows no crashes and no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Michael T. Wimber

    Mr. Wimber, 47, has glaucoma in his left eye due to a traumatic 
incident in childhood. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/20, and 
in his left eye, hand motion. Following an examination in 2013, his 
optometrist stated, ``In my medical option [sic] his vision is 
sufficient to perform the driving tasks require [sic] to operate a 
commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Wimber reported that he has driven straight 
trucks for 7 years, accumulating 700,000 miles, and tractor-trailer 
combinations for 7 years, accumulating 700,000 miles. He holds a Class 
A CDL from Montana. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no 
crashes and 1 conviction for a moving violation in a CMV; he exceeded 
the speed limit by 10 mph.

Elmer F. Winters

    Mr. Winters, 65, has had amblyopia and retinoschisis in his left 
eye since childhood. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/20, and 
in his left eye, 20/60. Following an examination in 2013, his 
optometrist stated, ``In conclusion, Mr. Winters has an amblyopic left 
eye that is well documented, retinoschisis that has also been well 
documented, and I see no added risk of driving or operating a 
commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Winters reported that he has driven straight 
trucks for 10 years, accumulating 50,000 miles, and tractor-trailer 
combinations for 38 years, accumulating 2.28 million miles. He holds a 
Class A CDL from North Carolina. His driving record for the last 3 
years shows no crashes and no convictions for moving violations in a 
CMV.

Theodore R. Wolden

    Mr. Wolden, 38, has had congenital amblyopia in his left eye since 
childhood. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/20, and in his left 
eye, 20/200. Following an examination in 2014, his optometrist stated, 
``In summary, Mr. Wolden has myopia with astigmatism in both eyes with 
mild, longstanding, stable central suppression in the left eye. He has 
full field of view with both eyes and no limitation to his ability to 
operate a commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Wolden reported that he has driven 
straight trucks for 10 years, accumulating 250,000 miles, and tractor-
trailer combinations for 10 years, accumulating 250,000 miles. He holds 
a Class A CDL from Minnesota. His driving record for the last 3 years 
shows no crashes and no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Eugene T. Wolf

    Mr. Wolf, 73, has had amblyopia in his left eye since birth. The 
visual acuity in his right eye is 20/20, and in his left eye, 20/200. 
Following an examination in 2014, his optometrist stated, ``It is my 
opinion, therefore, that Gene Wolf has sufficient vision to safely 
perform the vision tasks required to continue to operate a commercial 
vehicle.'' Mr. Wolf reported that he has driven tractor-trailer 
combinations for 55 years, accumulating 6.4 million miles. He holds a 
Class A CDL from Iowa. His driving record for the last 3 years shows 1 
crash, for which he was cited, and 1 conviction for a moving violation 
in a CMV; he exceeded the speed limit by 10 mph.

Duane R. Yoder

    Mr. Yoder, 28, has had amblyopia and anisometropia in his left eye 
since childhood. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/20, and in 
his left eye, 20/60. Following an examination in 2013, his 
ophthalmologist stated that, in his medical opinion, Mr. Yoder has 
sufficient vision to operate a commercial motor vehicle. Mr. Yoder 
reported that he has driven straight trucks for 5 years, accumulating 
175,000 miles. He holds an operator's license from Indiana. His driving 
record for the last 3 years shows no crashes and no convictions for 
moving violations in a CMV.

Request for Comments

    In accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, FMCSA requests 
public comment from all interested persons on the exemption petitions 
described in this notice. The Agency will consider all comments 
received before the close of business May 1, 2014. Comments will be 
available for examination in the docket at the location listed under 
the ADDRESSES section of this notice. The Agency will file comments 
received after the comment closing date in the public docket, and will 
consider them to the extent practicable.
    In addition to late comments, FMCSA will also continue to file, in 
the public docket, relevant information that becomes available after 
the comment closing date. Interested persons should monitor the public 
docket for new material.

Submitting Comments

    You may submit your comments and material online or by fax, mail, 
or hand delivery, but please use only one of these means. FMCSA 
recommends that you include your name and a mailing address, an email 
address, or a phone number in the body of your document so that FMCSA 
can contact you if there are questions regarding your submission.
    To submit your comment online, go to http://www.regulations.gov and 
in the search box insert the docket number FMCSA-2014-0004 and click 
the search button. When the new screen appears, click on the blue 
``Comment Now!'' button on the right hand side of the page. On the new 
page, enter information required including the specific section of this 
document to which each comment applies, and provide a reason for each 
suggestion or recommendation. If you submit your comments by mail or 
hand delivery, submit them in an unbound format, no larger than 8\1/2\ 
by 11 inches, suitable for copying and electronic filing. If you submit 
comments by mail and would like to know that they reached the facility, 
please enclose a stamped, self-addressed postcard or envelope.
    We will consider all comments and material received during the 
comment period and may change this proposed rule based on your 
comments. FMCSA may issue a final rule at any time after the close of 
the comment period.

Viewing Comments and Documents

    To view comments, as well as any documents mentioned in this 
preamble, To submit your comment online, go to http://www.regulations.gov and in the search box insert the docket number 
FMCSA-2014-0004 and click ``Search.'' Next, click ``Open Docket 
Folder'' and you will find all documents and comments related to the 
proposed rulemaking.


[[Page 18400]]


    Issued on: March 18, 2014.
Larry W. Minor,
Associate Administrator for Policy.
[FR Doc. 2014-07215 Filed 3-31-14; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-EX-P