Compliance
Regardless of who wins the White House in November, the Affordable Care Act will bring many changes to the health coverage system in 2014. The Illinois Chamber of Commerce has provided a detailed analysis to help employers, benefits managers and human resource departments, etc., prepare for these changes. Download the in-depth analysis prepared by Laura Minzer, Executive Director of the Healthcare Council, discussing the key issues that employers and other stakeholders should be aware of as the march toward 2014 continues.
New Rules regarding Ban on Hand-Held Cellular Phones for Drivers of CMVs
U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood announced a final rule specifically prohibiting interstate truck and bus drivers from using hand-held cell phones while operating their vehicles. The joint rule from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) is the latest action by the U.S. Department of Transportation to end distracted driving.
The final rule prohibits commercial drivers from using a hand-held mobile telephone while operating a commercial truck or bus. Drivers who violate the restriction will face federal civil penalties of up to $2,750 for each offense and disqualification from operating a commercial motor vehicle for multiple offenses. Additionally, states will suspend a driver's commercial driver's license (CDL) after two or more serious traffic violations. Commercial truck and bus companies that allow their drivers to use hand-held cell phones while driving will face a maximum penalty of $11,000. Approximately four million commercial drivers would be affected by this final rule.
