[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 182 (Wednesday, September 19, 2018)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 47486-47521]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2018-20161]



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Vol. 83

Wednesday,

No. 182

September 19, 2018

Part III





Department of Transportation





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 Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration





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49 CFR Part 391





Qualifications of Drivers; Diabetes Standard; Final Rule

  Federal Register / Vol. 83 , No. 182 / Wednesday, September 19, 2018 
/ Rules and Regulations  

[[Page 47486]]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

49 CFR Part 391

[Docket No. FMCSA-2005-23151]
RIN 2126-AA95


Qualifications of Drivers; Diabetes Standard

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

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: FMCSA revises its regulations to permit individuals with a 
stable insulin regimen and properly controlled insulin-treated diabetes 
mellitus (ITDM) to be qualified to operate commercial motor vehicles 
(CMVs) in interstate commerce. Previously, ITDM individuals were 
prohibited from driving CMVs in interstate commerce unless they 
obtained an exemption from FMCSA. This rule enables a certified medical 
examiner (ME) to grant an ITDM individual a Medical Examiner's 
Certificate (MEC), MCSA-5876, for up to a maximum of 12 months. To do 
so, the treating clinician (TC), the healthcare professional who 
manages, and prescribes insulin for, the treatment of the individual's 
diabetes, provides the Insulin-Treated Diabetes Mellitus Assessment 
Form (ITDM Assessment Form), MCSA-5870, to the certified ME indicating 
that the individual maintains a stable insulin regimen and proper 
control of his or her diabetes. The certified ME then determines that 
the individual meets FMCSA's physical qualification standards and can 
operate CMVs in interstate commerce.

DATES: This final rule is effective November 19, 2018, except for 
amendatory instruction 5.b. which is effective November 19, 2019. 
Comments sent to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) on the 
collection of information must be received by OMB on or before November 
19, 2018.
    Petitions for Reconsideration of this final rule must be submitted 
to the FMCSA Administrator no later than October 19, 2018.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ms. Christine A. Hydock, Chief, 
Medical Programs Division, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, 
1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590-0001, by telephone at 
(202) 366-4001, or by email at [email protected]. If you have 
questions on viewing or submitting material to the docket, contact 
Docket Services, telephone (202) 366-9826.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: This final rule is organized as follows:

I. Rulemaking Documents
    A. Availability of Rulemaking Documents
    B. Privacy Act
II. Executive Summary
    A. Purpose of the Amendments
    B. Summary of Major Provisions
    C. Benefits and Costs
III. Abbreviations and Acronyms
IV. Legal Basis for the Rulemaking
V. Background
    A. Brief History of Physical Qualification Standards for CMV 
Drivers With ITDM
    B. Exemption Program
    C. May 4, 2015, NPRM
    D. September 9, 2016, Notice of MRB Task Report; Request for 
Comments
    E. July 27, 2017, Notice of Proposed ITDM Assessment Form and 
Request for Comments
VI. Discussion of Comments and Responses
    A. Comment Overview
    B. Qualifications of a Certified ME To Examine an ITDM 
Individual
    C. Definition and Qualifications of a TC
    D. Role and Relationship of the TC and Certified ME
    E. TC Written Notification (ITDM Assessment Form)
    F. Certified ME Certification and TC Evaluation Frequency
    G. Annual Certification of Individuals With Diabetes Mellitus 
Not Treated With Insulin
    H. Eye Examinations
    I. Disqualification for Visual Impairment
    J. HbA1C Levels
    K. Specific Blood Glucose Limits
    L. Severe Hypoglycemic Episodes
    M. Hypoglycemia Unawareness
    N. Blood Glucose Self-Monitoring
    O. Requirement To Carry Readily-Absorbable Glucose
    P. Diabetic Complications and Target Organ Damage
    Q. Motor Carrier Responsibility To Enforce the ITDM Standard
    R. ITDM Individuals Operating CMVs Transporting Passengers or 
Hazardous Materials
    S. ITDM Individuals With Licenses Issued in Canada or Mexico
    T. The Grandfather Provision for Insulin-Treated Diabetes
    U. Safety of ITDM Individuals
    V. Costs and Benefits of the Proposed Rule
    W. Privacy Issues
    X. Other Comments
    Y. Outside the Scope
VII. Section-by-Section Analysis
VIII. International Impacts
IX. Regulatory Analyses
    A. E.O. 12866 (Regulatory Planning and Review), E.O. 13563 
(Improving Regulation and Regulatory Review), and DOT Regulatory 
Policies and Procedures
    B. E.O. 13771 (Reducing Regulation and Controlling Regulatory 
Costs)
    C. Regulatory Flexibility Act
    D. Assistance for Small Entities
    E. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995
    F. Paperwork Reduction Act (Collection of Information)
    G. E.O. 13132 (Federalism)
    H. E.O. 12988 (Civil Justice Reform)
    I. E.O. 13045 (Protection of Children)
    J. E.O. 12630 (Taking of Private Property)
    K. Privacy Impact Assessment
    L. E.O. 12372 (Intergovernmental Review)
    M. E.O. 13211 (Energy Supply, Distribution, or Use)
    N. E.O. 13783 (Promoting Energy Independence and Economic 
Growth)
    O. E.O. 13175 (Indian Tribal Governments)
    P. National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act (Technical 
Standards)
    Q. Environment (National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 
(NEPA), Clean Air Act (CAA), Environmental Justice)

I. Rulemaking Documents

A. Availability of Rulemaking Documents

    For access to docket FMCSA-2005-23151 to read background documents 
and comments received, go to http://www.regulations.gov at any time, or 
to Docket Services at U.S. Department of Transportation, Room W12-140, 
1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 
p.m. E.T., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.

B. Privacy Act

    In accordance with 5 U.S.C. 553(c), the Department of 
Transportation (DOT) solicits comments from the public to better inform 
its rulemaking process. DOT posts these comments, without edit, 
including any personal information the commenter provides, to 
www.regulations.gov, as described in the system of records notice (DOT/
ALL-14 FDMS), which can be reviewed at www.transportation.gov/privacy.

II. Executive Summary

A. Purpose of the Amendments

    This final rule amends the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations 
(FMCSRs) to allow individuals with stable insulin regimens and properly 
controlled ITDM to drive CMVs in interstate commerce if they meet the 
physical qualification standards in Sec. Sec.  391.41, 391.45, and 
391.46. The final rule eliminates the diabetes grandfather provision 
under Sec.  391.64(a) 1 year after the effective date of this rule and 
also eliminates the need for the Federal diabetes exemption program.

B. Summary of Major Provisions

    This final rule allows individuals with stable insulin regimens and 
properly controlled ITDM to drive CMVs in interstate commerce if they 
have an annual or more frequent examination by a certified ME who is 
listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners 
(National Registry), are found physically qualified to operate a CMV, 
and are issued an

[[Page 47487]]

MEC, MCSA-5876, from a certified ME. Prior to the annual or more 
frequent examination by the certified ME, the individual must have an 
evaluation by his or her TC. The final rule defines a TC as the 
healthcare professional who manages, and prescribes insulin for, the 
treatment of the individual's diabetes as authorized by the healthcare 
professional's State licensing authority.
    The TC provides information to the certified ME via the ITDM 
Assessment Form, MCSA-5870, on which the TC attests that the individual 
maintains a stable insulin regimen and proper control of his or her 
diabetes. The certified ME must receive the ITDM Assessment Form, MCSA-
5870, no later than 45 days after the individual's TC has completed and 
signed it for each medical examination. Upon receipt of a valid form, 
the certified ME will perform an examination, consider the information 
provided by the TC, and determine whether the individual meets FMCSA's 
physical qualification standards to operate a CMV safely. If so, the 
certified ME may issue an MEC, MCSA-5876, for up to a maximum of 12 
months.
    The final rule requires that all ITDM individuals must provide to 
the TC at least the preceding 3 months of blood glucose self-monitoring 
records while being treated with insulin to be eligible for up to the 
maximum 12-month MEC, MCSA-5876. If an individual does not provide the 
3 months of records, the certified ME has discretion to grant the 
individual up to but not more than a 3-month MEC, MCSA-5876, to allow 
time for the individual to collect the necessary records. Once the 
individual has 3 months of blood glucose self-monitoring records, the 
individual is treated the same as an ITDM individual with 3 months of 
records. The individual must first go to the TC for evaluation and then 
to the certified ME, who must exercise independent medical judgment, to 
determine if the individual is eligible for up to the maximum 12-month 
MEC, MCSA-5876.
    If an ITDM individual has had a severe hypoglycemic episode, the 
individual is prohibited from operating a CMV and must report the 
episode to and be evaluated by a TC as soon as is reasonably 
practicable. The prohibition from operating a CMV continues until the 
ITDM individual has been evaluated by a TC and the TC determines that 
the cause of the severe hypoglycemic episode has been addressed and 
that the individual again has a stable insulin regimen and properly 
controlled ITDM. Once a TC completes a new ITDM Assessment Form, MCSA-
5870, following the episode, the individual may resume operating a CMV. 
This rule defines a severe hypoglycemic episode as one requiring the 
assistance of others, or resulting in loss of consciousness, seizure, 
or coma.
    ITDM individuals who have been diagnosed with severe non-
proliferative diabetic retinopathy or proliferative diabetic 
retinopathy are disqualified permanently from operating a CMV in 
interstate commerce. These advanced stages of diabetic retinopathy 
present a serious risk to visual function, the safe operation of a CMV, 
and public safety.
    The fewer than 100 ITDM individuals currently certified under the 
diabetes grandfather provision in Sec.  391.64(a) will have 1 year 
after the effective date of this final rule to comply with the 
provisions of this rule. During that year, grandfathered individuals 
may elect to seek medical certification through the provisions of the 
final rule or Sec.  391.64. However, 1 year after the effective date of 
this final rule, all grandfathered MECs, MCSA-5876, will become void. 
FMCSA anticipates that individuals certified previously under Sec.  
391.64(a) will find it advantageous to transition to certification 
under this rule as soon as possible because costs potentially may be 
reduced and the requirements of this rule are no more stringent than 
those of Sec.  391.64(a).
    FMCSA has determined that this rule will ensure that ITDM 
individuals can operate a CMV safely. This final rule also creates a 
clearer, equally effective, and more consistent framework to certify 
ITDM individuals than a program based entirely on granting exemptions 
under 49 U.S.C. 31315(b).

C. Benefits and Costs

    This rule revises the FMCSRs to permit individuals with a stable 
insulin regimen and properly controlled ITDM to be qualified to operate 
CMVs in interstate commerce. Previously, ITDM individuals were 
prohibited from driving CMVs in interstate commerce unless they 
obtained an exemption from FMCSA. Revising the regulations will reduce 
the regulatory burden and result in a $6.21 million cost savings per 
year--the aggregate of cost savings to ITDM individuals, motor carriers 
that hire ITDM individuals, and FMCSA.
    The notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) stage of this rulemaking 
action predates the January 30, 2017, Executive Order (E.O.) 13771 
titled ``Reducing Regulation and Controlling Regulatory Costs'' (82 FR 
9339, Feb. 3, 2017). As such, the analysis of this final rule 
introduces several changes necessary to clarify that the final rule 
will result in total costs less than zero. The Agency presents the 
following comparison of the NRPM and final rule analyses.
    The Preliminary Regulatory Impact Analysis (RIA) published with the 
NPRM estimated that existing exemption holders would realize $0.76 
million in cost savings attributable to the rule.\1\ It also estimated 
there to be 209,664 ITDM individuals operating CMVs in interstate and 
intrastate commerce--a group that the NPRM estimated would incur costs 
ranging from $7.96 million to $23.90 million depending on the share of 
that group that would be medically qualified to receive an MEC, MCSA-
5876.\2\ That range of costs reflected gross compliance costs to those 
individuals; however, on a relative basis, the Agency estimated that 
compliance costs per individual under the proposed rule would decrease 
by $441 versus the cost to comply with the exemption program.
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    \1\ FMCSA Preliminary Regulatory Evaluation of Qualification of 
Drivers: Diabetes Standard Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, pp. 11-12, 
which is available in the docket for this rulemaking.
    \2\ Id. at 12-13.
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    By reducing compliance costs per ITDM individual, the rule is a 
deregulatory action both as proposed in the NPRM and again with this 
final rule. The Agency concludes that an ITDM individual not currently 
participating in the exemption program will bear the compliance costs 
of the final rule only if he or she considers the cost to comply to be 
equal to or lesser than his or her perceived cost of non-compliance. As 
a result, ITDM individuals not currently participating in the exemption 
program will incur no new net costs from this rule, while existing 
exemption holders will (in aggregate) receive a savings of $5.09 
million in compliance costs per year. On a per-individual basis, the 
compliance cost of the final rule is less than the baseline ($332 
versus $5,585) during the first year an ITDM individual comes into 
compliance and is 75.4 percent less than the baseline ($332 versus 
$1,350) in each year thereafter.
    The Final RIA estimates a greater amount of cost savings than in 
the Preliminary RIA as a result of several changes and updates. First, 
the Final RIA accounts for new ITDM individuals' opportunity costs of 
income forgone, as well as corresponding motor carriers' opportunity 
costs of labor hours forgone, during the period FMCSA processes an 
exemption program application. These costs were not considered in the 
Preliminary RIA; the Agency made these changes during the development 
of the Final RIA in response to comments received on the NPRM. Second, 
the final analysis has

[[Page 47488]]

been adjusted to correct the number of endocrinologist visits per year 
required by the exemption program, as these visits were not fully 
accounted for in the Preliminary RIA. Third, the Final RIA updates 
inputs used to estimate the costs of the rule. Medical fees for the 
various healthcare professionals' services, driver wage and benefits 
values, and the population of drivers were updated using 2016 values.
    Table 1 summarizes the key requirements of the exemption program 
and compares them to the final rule. These requirements are reflected 
in the cost estimates of the exemption program and the final rule.

    Table 1--Requirements of the Exemption Program vs. the Final Rule
------------------------------------------------------------------------
      Exemption program (baseline)                  Final rule
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 The average processing time      No exemption needed,
 for a new exemption application is 77    therefore no processing wait
 days, during which applicants cannot     time.
 drive CMVs in interstate commerce \3\.
 Annual examination by a          Annual examination by
 certified ME.                            a certified ME.
 Annual vision examination        No annual vision
 performed by an optometrist or           examination is required.
 ophthalmologist for evidence of          No annual examination
 diabetic retinopathy (if retinopathy     or quarterly evaluations by an
 is present, an ophthalmologist report    endocrinologist are required.
 on stability of disease).
 Annual examination by an         Annual evaluation by
 endocrinologist and three quarterly      the TC who completes an ITDM
 visits.                                  Assessment Form, MCSA-5870,
                                          that is provided to the
                                          certified ME.
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    As shown in Table 2, the annualized cost of the baseline (the 
exemption program) is estimated at $8.02 million, while the annualized 
cost of the final rule is estimated at $1.67 million. The annualized 
cost savings of the rule are therefore $6.35 million, a 79 percent 
decrease. These cost savings are distributed among certain groups of 
ITDM individuals, motor carriers, and FMCSA.
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    \3\ The 77 days represents the average processing time for 3,674 
exemption applications accepted between 2012 and 2016 in the 
exemption program database maintained by the contractor that assists 
FMCSA with the administration of the diabetes exemption program.

                                     Table 2--Total Costs of the Final Rule
                                        [Annualized in millions of 2016$]
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                                                                                    Final Rule
                  Entities potentially impacted                    Baseline cost       cost         Total cost
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Currently Compliant ITDM Individuals............................           $6.75           $1.66         ($5.09)
Future Compliant ITDM Individuals...............................            0.17            0.01          (0.16)
Non-Participating ITDM Individuals..............................            0.00            0.00            0.00
Motor Carriers..................................................            0.07            0.00          (0.07)
FMCSA...........................................................            1.03            0.00          (1.03)
    Total.......................................................            8.02            1.67          (6.35)
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    FMCSA estimates that currently compliant ITDM individuals (that is, 
individuals that currently have exemptions) will realize $5.09 million 
of annualized costs savings because of the rule. These ITDM 
individuals' costs to comply with the exemption program are estimated 
at $6.75 million, versus $1.66 million to comply with the final rule. 
This group of ITDM individuals consists of 3,945 FMCSA exemption 
holders and an estimated 930 ITDM individuals with intrastate 
commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) issued exemptions in accordance 
with State exemption programs.
    The Agency estimates that the number of future compliant ITDM 
individuals that would obtain exemptions in the absence of the rule 
would increase annually by 27. Under the rule, the annualized cost 
savings realized by these 27 individuals are estimated at $0.16 million 
($0.17 million to comply with the exemption program versus $0.01 
million to comply with the final rule). The difference between the two 
cost estimates is due primarily to the elimination of the opportunity 
costs associated with the wait for FMCSA to process exemption program 
applications. Motor carriers are estimated to realize $0.07 million in 
cost savings due to the elimination of the application processing wait 
time.
    As discussed earlier, ITDM individuals not currently participating 
in the exemption program (referred to as ``Non-Participating ITDM 
Individuals'' in Table 2) incur no new net costs from this rule.
    Lastly, the rule will eliminate contractor costs that FMCSA incurs 
for the administration of the exemption program. The average cost of 
the remaining 3 option years of the contract is $1.03 million, which 
the Agency relies on to estimate FMCSA's annual cost savings resulting 
from the rule.

III. Abbreviations and Acronyms

AAFP American Academy of Family Physicians
AAPA American Academy of Physician Assistants
AAPA-OM American Academy of Physician Assistants in Occupational 
Medicine
ABA American Bus Association
ACOEM American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine
ADA American Diabetes Association
Advocates Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety
ANPRM Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking
AOA American Optometric Association
APN Advanced Practice Nurse
ATA American Trucking Associations, Inc.
BLS Bureau of Labor Statistics
CAA Clean Air Act
CDC Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
CDL Commercial Driver's License
CE Categorical Exclusion
CFR Code of Federal Regulations
CMV Commercial Motor Vehicle
DC Doctor of Chiropractic
DO Doctor of Osteopathy
DOT Department of Transportation
E.O. Executive Order
FAA Federal Aviation Administration
FHWA Federal Highway Administration

[[Page 47489]]

FMCSA Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
FMCSRs Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations
FR Federal Register
HIPAA Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act
H&SW Health and Safety Works, LLC
IBT International Brotherhood of Teamsters
ICR Information Collection Request
ITDM Insulin-Treated Diabetes Mellitus
LFC Licencia Federal de Conductor
MD Doctor of Medicine
ME Medical Examiner
MEC Medical Examiner's Certificate, MCSA-5876
MRB Medical Review Board
National Registry National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners
NEPA National Environmental Policy Act
NP Nurse Practitioner
NPRM Notice of Proposed Rulemaking
NTSB National Transportation Safety Board
OMB Office of Management and Budget
OOIDA Owner-Operator Independent Driver Association
PA Physician Assistant
PIA Privacy Impact Assessment
RIA Regulatory Impact Analysis
RN Registered Nurse
SAFETEA-LU Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation 
Equity Act: A Legacy for Users
Sec.  Section symbol
SOCO Southern Company Entities
SORN System of Records Notice
TC Treating Clinician
TEA-21 Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century
TFAC Truckers for a Cause
TTD Transportation Trades Department, AFL-CIO
U.S.C. United States Code
University of Utah University of Utah School of Medicine
UMA United Motorcoach Association

IV. Legal Basis for the Rulemaking

    FMCSA has authority under 49 U.S.C. 31136(a) and 31502(b)--
delegated to the Agency by 49 CFR 1.87(f) and (i), respectively--to 
establish minimum qualifications, including medical and physical 
qualifications, for individuals operating CMVs in interstate commerce. 
Section 31136(a)(3) requires specifically that the Agency's safety 
regulations ensure that the physical conditions of CMV drivers enable 
them to operate their vehicles safely and that certified MEs trained in 
physical and medical examination standards perform the physical 
examinations required of such operators.
    Additionally, in 2005, Congress authorized the creation of the 
Medical Review Board (MRB) composed of experts ``in a variety of 
medical specialties relevant to the driver fitness requirements'' to 
provide medical advice and recommendations on qualification standards 
(49 U.S.C. 31149(a)). The position of Chief Medical Examiner was 
authorized at the same time (49 U.S.C. 31149(b)). Under section 
31149(c)(1), the Agency, with the advice of the MRB and Chief Medical 
Examiner, is directed to ``establish, review, and revise . . . medical 
standards for operators of commercial motor vehicles that will ensure 
that the physical condition of operators of commercial motor vehicles 
is adequate to enable them to operate the vehicles safely.'' As 
discussed in the NPRM (80 FR 25260, May 4, 2015), the Agency asked the 
MRB to review and report on the current diabetes standard. More 
recently, the Agency directed the MRB to review and analyze all 
comments to the NPRM submitted from medical professionals and 
associations, and identify factors the Agency should consider in this 
rulemaking. The MRB's recommendations and the Agency's responses are 
described elsewhere in this final rule.
    In addition to the statutory requirements specific to the physical 
qualifications of CMV drivers (49 U.S.C. 31136(a)(3)), FMCSA's 
regulations must also ensure that CMVs are maintained, equipped, 
loaded, and operated safely (49 U.S.C. 31136(a)(1)); that the 
responsibilities imposed on CMV drivers do not impair their ability to 
operate the vehicles safely (49 U.S.C. 31136(a)(2)); that the operation 
of CMVs does not have a deleterious effect on the physical condition of 
the drivers (49 U.S.C. 31136(a)(4)); and that drivers are not coerced 
by motor carriers, shippers, receivers, or transportation 
intermediaries to operate a vehicle in violation of a regulation 
promulgated under 49 U.S.C. 31136 (which is the basis for much of the 
FMCSRs), 49 U.S.C. chapter 51 (which authorizes the hazardous materials 
regulations), or 49 U.S.C. chapter 313 (which is the authority for the 
CDL regulations and the related drug and alcohol testing requirements) 
(49 U.S.C. 31136(a)(5)).
    This rule is based primarily on 49 U.S.C. 31136(a)(3) and 31149(c) 
and does not concern the requirements in 49 U.S.C. 31136(a)(1), (2), or 
(4). FMCSA believes that coercion of drivers with ITDM to violate the 
current rule preventing them from operating in interstate commerce, 
which is prohibited by 49 U.S.C. 31136(a)(5), does not and will not 
occur. On the contrary, motor carriers have been reluctant generally to 
employ such drivers at all. The original exemption program developed in 
the 1990s by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and FMCSA's 
subsequent program under 49 U.S.C. 31315(b) allowed selected ITDM 
individuals to drive legally for the first time, while also generating 
data showing that their safety records were at least as good as those 
of all other drivers.
    Section 4129 of the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient 
Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU) (Pub. L. 
109-59, 119 Stat. 1144, 1742, Aug. 10, 2005), in paragraphs (a) through 
(c), directed the Agency to relax certain requirements of its exemption 
program for ITDM individuals. Paragraph (d) of section 4129 provides 
that ITDM individuals may not be held by the Secretary of 
Transportation to a higher standard of physical qualification to 
operate a CMV in interstate commerce than other individuals applying to 
operate, or operating, a CMV in interstate commerce; except to the 
extent that limited operating, monitoring, and medical requirements are 
deemed medically necessary under regulations issued by the Secretary. 
FMCSA has determined that this final rule satisfies the purposes of 
section 4129(d) by imposing appropriate requirements on such 
individuals as contemplated by that provision and maintaining current 
levels of highway safety.
    Finally, prior to prescribing any regulations, FMCSA must consider 
their ``costs and benefits'' (49 U.S.C. 31136(c)(2)(A) and 31502(d)). 
Those factors are discussed in the Regulatory Analyses section of this 
final rule.

V. Background

A. Brief History of Physical Qualification Standards for CMV Drivers 
With ITDM

    In 1939, one of FMCSA's predecessors recommended that CMV drivers 
have urine glucose tests as part of medical examinations for 
determining whether they were physically qualified to drive CMVs in 
interstate or foreign commerce (4 FR 2296, June 7, 1939). That 
recommendation remained in effect from January 1, 1940, until a 
replacement standard established by FHWA went into effect on January 1, 
1971. In 1970, FHWA established the current standard for ITDM 
individuals (35 FR 6463, 6464, April 22, 1970), which also includes 
testing urine for glucose. That standard states that a ``person is 
physically qualified to drive a commercial motor vehicle if that person 
. . . [h]as no established medical history or clinical diagnosis of 
diabetes mellitus currently requiring insulin for control'' (49 CFR 
391.41(b)(3)). Beginning in 1993, however, CMV drivers with ITDM had 
the opportunity to apply to FHWA for a waiver (57 FR 40690, July 29, 
1993), until a 1994 Federal court decision invalidated the

[[Page 47490]]

waiver program. See Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety v. FHWA, 28 
F.3d 1288 (D.C. Cir. 1994).
    In 1998, section 4018 of the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st 
Century (TEA-21) (Pub. L. 105-178, 112 Stat. 107, 413, June 9, 1998 
(set out as a note to 49 U.S.C. 31305)) directed the Secretary to 
determine the feasibility of developing ``a practicable and cost-
effective screening, operating, and monitoring protocol'' for allowing 
ITDM individuals to operate CMVs in interstate commerce. This protocol 
``would ensure a level of safety equal to or greater than that achieved 
with the current prohibition on individuals with insulin treated 
diabetes mellitus driving such vehicles'' (section 4018(a)).
    As also directed by section 4018, FHWA compiled and evaluated the 
available research and information. It assembled a panel of medical 
experts in the treatment of diabetes to investigate and report on 
issues concerned with the treatment, medical screening, and monitoring 
of ITDM individuals in the context of operating CMVs. In July 2000, 
FMCSA submitted a report to Congress titled, ``A Report to Congress on 
the Feasibility of a Program to Qualify Individuals with Insulin 
Treated Diabetes Mellitus to Operate Commercial Motor Vehicles in 
Interstate Commerce as Directed by the Transportation Equity Act for 
the 21st Century'' (TEA-21 Report to Congress). This report concluded 
that it was feasible to establish a safe and practicable protocol 
containing three components allowing some ITDM individuals to operate 
CMVs. The three components were as follows: (1) Screening of qualified 
commercial drivers with ITDM; (2) establishing operational requirements 
to ensure proper disease management by such drivers; and (3) monitoring 
safe driving behavior and proper disease management.
    On July 31, 2001, as a result of the conclusions found in the TEA-
21 Report to Congress, FMCSA published a notice proposing to issue 
exemptions from the FMCSRs allowing ITDM individuals to operate CMVs in 
interstate commerce (66 FR 39548). After receiving and considering 
comments, FMCSA issued a notice of final disposition (``2003 Notice'') 
establishing the procedures and protocols for implementing the 
exemptions for ITDM individuals (68 FR 52441, Sept. 3, 2003). In 
conformity with the conclusions of the TEA-21 Report to Congress, the 
2003 Notice implemented the three protocol components recommended in 
the report, with a few modifications. Beginning in 2003, ITDM 
individuals could apply to FMCSA for an exemption from the prohibition 
of operating CMVs in interstate commerce.

B. Exemption Program

    FMCSA administers an exemption program for ITDM individuals who 
wish to become qualified or maintain their physical qualifications as 
CMV drivers. The Agency administers this exemption program under 49 CFR 
part 381, subpart C, according to directives in the 2003 Notice and a 
notice of revised final disposition published in 2005 (70 FR 67777, 
Nov. 8, 2005).
    To apply for an exemption under the program administered by FMCSA, 
the individual must submit a letter application with medical 
documentation showing the following: \4\
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    \4\ The requirements to apply for and maintain an exemption are 
not exhaustive.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (1) The ITDM individual has been examined by a board-certified or 
board-eligible endocrinologist who has (i) conducted a comprehensive 
evaluation including one glycosylated hemoglobin test (HbA1C) with a 
result within a range of 7 to 10 percent, inclusive,\5\ and (ii) signed 
a statement regarding his or her determinations;
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \5\ FMCSA subsequently removed the requirement to include one 
HbA1C result on the application itself.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (2) The ITDM individual has obtained a signed statement from an 
ophthalmologist or optometrist indicating that the individual has been 
examined, has no unstable proliferative diabetic retinopathy, and meets 
the vision standard in Sec.  391.41(b)(10); and
    (3) The ITDM individual has obtained a signed copy of both a 
certified ME's Medical Examination Report Form, MCSA-5875, and an MEC, 
MCSA-5876, showing that the individual meets all physical qualification 
standards in Sec.  391.41(b) other than the diabetes standard.
    FMCSA does not conduct medical examinations of any individuals in 
the exemption program. Instead, it makes its decision whether to grant 
the exemption based on individual applications and supporting 
documentation from healthcare professionals. FMCSA cannot grant an 
exemption unless it is likely that a level of safety would be achieved 
that is equivalent to, or greater than, the level that would be 
achieved without the exemption (49 U.S.C. 31315(b) and 49 CFR 
381.305(a)).
    Before granting a request for an exemption, FMCSA must publish a 
notice in the Federal Register. The notice explains a request has been 
filed and provides the public an opportunity to inspect the safety 
analysis, and any other relevant information known to the Agency, and 
to comment on the request. The notice must identify: The individual who 
will receive the exemption; the provision(s) from which the individual 
will be exempted; the effective period; and all terms and conditions of 
the exemption. After the conclusion of the comment period, FMCSA must 
publish a notice of its decision to approve or deny the request.
    Once approved, to maintain an exemption, the driver must:
    (1) Have annual medical recertification by a certified ME;
    (2) Have quarterly evaluations by an endocrinologist;
    (3) Have annual comprehensive medical evaluations by an 
endocrinologist;
    (4) Have annual vision evaluations that confirm there is no 
evidence of unstable proliferative diabetic retinopathy and the driver 
meets the vision standard for CMV drivers;
    (5) Maintain appropriate medical supplies for glucose management, 
including a monitor, insulin, and an amount of rapidly-absorbable 
glucose, in the vehicle to be used as necessary;
    (6) Follow a protocol to monitor and maintain blood glucose levels; 
and
    (7) Report to the Agency all episodes of severe hypoglycemia, any 
significant complications relating to diabetes, the inability to manage 
his or her diabetes, and any involvement in a crash or other adverse 
event.
    A driver must reapply for an exemption every 2 years. FMCSA may 
revoke an exemption immediately under standards established in Sec.  
381.330.

C. May 4, 2015, NPRM: Qualifications of Drivers; Diabetes Standard

    In the May 2015 NPRM, FMCSA proposed to amend its physical 
qualification standards in Sec.  391.41 to allow ITDM individuals to 
operate CMVs (80 FR 25272). Proposed paragraph (b)(3) provided that an 
individual was physically qualified to drive a CMV either by having no 
established medical history or clinical diagnosis of diabetes mellitus 
currently requiring insulin for control, or by meeting the requirements 
in new Sec.  391.46.
    The NPRM also proposed to reorganize Sec.  391.45, which provides 
when individuals must be medically examined and certified, and to add a 
new paragraph (e). That proposed paragraph required any ITDM individual 
who had been qualified for an MEC, MCSA-5876, under the standards in 
Sec.  391.46 to be medically examined and certified as qualified to 
drive at least every 12 months.

[[Page 47491]]

    Proposed Sec.  391.46 provided that an ITDM individual was 
physically qualified to operate a CMV if the individual otherwise met 
the physical qualification standards in Sec.  391.41, or had the 
exemption or skill performance evaluation certificate, if required, and 
had the medical evaluations required by Sec.  391.46.
    Prior to the annual or more frequent examination by a certified ME, 
the ITDM individual would have to be evaluated by the TC. The TC was 
defined in the proposed rule as a physician or health care professional 
who manages and prescribes insulin for the treatment of individuals 
with diabetes mellitus. The TC would have to determine that within the 
previous 12 months the individual: Had no severe hypoglycemic reaction 
resulting in a loss of consciousness or seizure, or requiring the 
assistance of another person, or resulting in impaired cognitive 
function; and had properly managed his or her diabetes. During the 
period of medical certification, the individual was required to monitor 
and maintain blood glucose records as determined by the TC and submit 
those blood glucose records to the TC at the time of the evaluation.
    At least annually, the ITDM individual would have to be medically 
examined and certified by a certified ME as physically qualified in 
accordance with Sec.  391.43 and as free of complications that might 
impair the individual's ability to operate a CMV. The certified ME 
would be required to obtain written notification from the individual's 
TC that the individual's diabetes was being properly managed. The 
certified ME also would have to evaluate whether the individual was 
physically qualified to operate a CMV.
    Although not part of the proposed regulation, FMCSA requested 
comments on whether it should prohibit drivers with ITDM from being 
medically qualified to operate CMVs carrying passengers and hazardous 
materials, and whether removing the grandfather provision would affect 
any driver adversely who is operating currently under Sec.  391.64. 
Finally, the Agency also requested comment on the need for an ITDM 
individual to be examined by an optometrist or ophthalmologist as a 
condition of passing the medical examination.

D. September 9, 2016, Notice of Availability; Request for Comments: 
Medical Review Board Task Report on Insulin-Treated Diabetes Mellitus 
and Commercial Motor Vehicle Drivers

    The NPRM's comment period closed on July 6, 2015. In that same 
month, FMCSA directed the MRB to review and analyze all comments to the 
NPRM from medical professionals and associations, and to identify 
factors the Agency should consider when making decisions about the next 
steps in the diabetes rulemaking (MRB Task 15-1). In response, the 
Agency received MRB Task 15-1 Report (2015 MRB report) dated September 
1, 2015. FMCSA published a Federal Register notice on September 9, 
2016, announcing the availability of the 2015 MRB report and requesting 
comments on the MRB recommendations (81 FR 62448). The MRB's 
recommendations are considered in the Discussion of Comments and 
Responses section below. The full report is available in the docket for 
this rulemaking, in addition to being available on the Agency's website 
at https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/advisory-committees/mrb/mrb-task-15-01-report.

E. July 27, 2017, Notice and Request for Comments: Agency Information 
Collection Activities; Information Collection Revision Request--Medical 
Qualification Requirements, OMB Control Number 2126-0006 (Proposed ITDM 
Assessment Form)

    On July 27, 2017, FMCSA published a 60-day notice announcing that 
it was considering submitting an Information Collection Request (ICR) 
to OMB for its review and approval (82 FR 35041). In anticipation of 
this final rule, the notice invited public comment on a revision to an 
information collection titled Medical Qualification Requirements, 
covered by OMB Control Number 2126-0006, which is currently due to 
expire on August 31, 2018. Based on the MRB's 2015 analysis of the 
comments and its recommendations, as well as public comments to the 
NPRM, FMCSA announced that it was considering replacing the previously 
proposed written notification from the TC with the ITDM Assessment 
Form. The form would be completed by the TC and provided to the 
certified ME. The 60-day notice, draft supporting statement, and 
proposed form are available in the docket for this rulemaking. The 
comment period closed on September 25, 2017. The comments are addressed 
in the Discussion of Comments and Responses section below.

VI. Discussion of Comments and Responses

A. Comment Overview

    In this rule, FMCSA responds to public comments to the following 
Federal Register documents.
    NPRM: In response to the May 2015 NPRM (80 FR 25260), FMCSA 
received 1,281 submissions between May 4, 2015, and February 16, 
2016.\6\ Based on a review of those submissions, 114 submissions were 
identified as non-germane and four submissions were duplicates. Almost 
all commenters expressed general support for the proposed rule, though 
many asked for more detail about the proposal. These commenters include 
CMV drivers, individuals diagnosed with diabetes, relatives of 
individuals diagnosed with diabetes, diabetes educators, health care 
professionals, and medical associations. General opposition to the 
proposed rule cited a risk to public safety as the basis for opposition 
contending that insulin-controlled diabetes is not a condition well-
suited to the demands of operating CMVs. These commenters included two 
individuals diagnosed with diabetes, a physician, and a diabetes 
educator. Of the generally-supportive submissions, 561 were form 
letters. The common reasons cited for general support of the proposal 
include the following: It would treat ITDM individuals fairly by 
assessing how diabetes affects each individual rather than focusing on 
the diagnosis of diabetes or use of insulin alone; it would simplify 
the qualification procedures for ITDM CMV drivers and focus on their 
operational safety by requiring that they be evaluated by healthcare 
professionals; it would improve safety by encouraging ITDM CMV drivers 
to properly manage their condition rather than to hide it in an effort 
to keep their jobs; and this action would enable CMV drivers newly 
diagnosed with ITDM to keep their jobs and encourage more individuals 
to enter the workforce, thereby reducing the driver shortage.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \6\ FMCSA stated in the NPRM, at 80 FR 25261, that it would not 
respond to comments made in response to the March 17, 2006, advance 
notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPRM) (71 FR 13801). The Agency 
requested that commenters reference any previous relevant comments 
in their comments to the NPRM. Therefore, this final rule does not 
respond to the comments submitted in response to the ANPRM.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Approximately a dozen commenters expressed general opposition to 
the proposed diabetes standard. Most of these commenters cited the risk 
to public safety for their opposition to the proposed rule and 
contended that insulin-controlled diabetes is not a condition well-
suited to the demands of operating CMVs.
    2015 MRB Report: In response to the September 2016 notice of 
availability and request for comments on the 2015 MRB report (81 FR 
62448), FMCSA received 41 comments, one of which was a duplicate. 
Commenters focused

[[Page 47492]]

on specific recommendations within the 2015 MRB report.
    ITDM Assessment Form: In response to the request for comments on 
the ICR and the ITDM Assessment Form (82 FR 35041), FMCSA received 44 
comments. Rather than providing substantive comments on the content or 
structure of the ITDM Assessment Form, 39 commenters discussed the 
issue of allowing ITDM individuals to operate CMVs. None of these 
commenters presented new issues that were not raised in the comments 
submitted in response to the NPRM or the 2015 MRB report. Five 
substantive comments related to the ITDM Assessment Form are discussed 
in the appropriate section below (TC Written Notification (ITDM 
Assessment Form)).

B. Qualifications of a Certified ME To Examine an ITDM Individual

    NPRM: FMCSA proposed that ITDM individuals be medically examined 
and certified by a certified ME listed on the National Registry as 
provided in Sec.  391.43.\7\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \7\ The Agency notes that the categories of healthcare 
professionals eligible to be listed on the National Registry are 
advanced practice nurses (APNs), doctors of chiropractic (DCs), 
doctors of medicine (MDs), doctors of osteopathy (DOs), physician 
assistants (PAs), and other healthcare professionals authorized by 
applicable State laws and regulations to perform physical 
examinations (49 CFR 390.103). APNs, also referred to as advanced 
practice registered nurses (APRNs), are registered nurses (RNs) 
educated at the masters or post masters level who have passed a 
national certification test in a specific role and patient 
population. The types of APNs are certified nurse practitioners 
(CNPs or NPs), clinical nurse specialists (CNSs), certified 
registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs), and certified nurse-midwifes 
(CNMs). See https://www.ncsbn.org/aprn.htm (Accessed May 25, 2018).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Comments on the Qualifications of a Certified ME to Examine an ITDM 
Individual: Both the American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA) 
and the American Academy of Physician Assistants in Occupational 
Medicine (AAPA-OM) supported FMCSA's proposal and noted that PAs are 
qualified to examine and certify any individual who operates a CMV. 
These commenters stated that the certified ME does not need to be a 
specialist to examine an individual.
    The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) noted that some 
certified MEs have no experience prescribing medications or managing 
the effects of insulin; thus, they would have to accept the TC's 
assessment without further evaluation. The American College of 
Occupational and Environmental Medicine (ACOEM) stated the certified ME 
should be an MD or DO experienced with the treatment and evaluation of 
diabetes and diabetes treated with insulin to medically qualify 
individuals using insulin; therefore, there should be designated 
certified MEs who review and medically qualify individuals using 
insulin. The ACOEM stated further that some certified MEs are making 
certification determinations pertaining to individuals with medical 
conditions that they are unable to independently diagnose or treat.
    A number of commenters stated that the certified ME should be a 
physician (either an MD or DO) or have other professional 
qualifications. For example, individuals who identified themselves as 
the first five members appointed to the MRB (herein after ``former MRB 
members'') \8\ wrote in their comment that there are now thousands of 
certified MEs who have no significant medical training. These former 
MRB members also stated that the primary care and tertiary care 
providers for individuals with diabetes often do not understand the 
specific demands on CMV drivers. Based on these considerations, the 
former MRB members wrote that FMCSA cannot meet the statutory 
requirement under 49 U.S.C. 31136(a)(3) for periodic physical 
examinations of individuals by having the TC work in conjunction with 
the certified ME.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \8\ The Agency notes that the comments expressed by the former 
MRB members in their letter were received in the docket in response 
to the Agency's request for public comments.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Unless TCs are required to have appropriate additional training, 
experience, and certification, Truckers for a Cause (TFAC) suggested 
that FMCSA require that ITDM individuals get their MECs, MCSA-5876, 
from a certified ME who is an MD, DO, NP, or PA. TFAC was concerned 
that not all certified MEs, e.g., DCs, will have the medical expertise 
to evaluate the information from a TC. TFAC wrote that in some States, 
for example Illinois, it would be a violation of State law for a DC to 
render an expert medical opinion on an individual meeting a diabetes 
treatment requirement. An individual commenter wanted to delay a 
rulemaking until there is assurance that the certified MEs can safely 
screen ITDM individuals.
    2015 MRB Report: The 2015 MRB report did not change the 
qualifications of certified MEs for conducting medical certification 
examinations on ITDM individuals.
    Comments on the MRB Report Regarding the Qualifications of a 
Certified ME: The University of Utah School of Medicine (University of 
Utah) stated that, unless the form proposed by the MRB clearly 
specifies what the outcome of a particular response is, the only 
alternative is to have diabetes examinations done by those with medical 
backgrounds, which is ``particularly mandatory because of the large 
number of non-medically trained examiners.'' An NP who is a certified 
ME hoped that NPs and PAs certified in primary care and experienced in 
managing patients with ITDM would not be excluded from certifying ITDM 
individuals. The NP stated that numerous studies have demonstrated that 
APNs in primary care settings perform as well as physicians in terms of 
clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction. The ACOEM stated that the 
certified ME must have the training and knowledge to evaluate whether 
the documentation provided is sufficient. Concentra commented that 
certified MEs who are not licensed to prescribe insulin should not be 
allowed to certify an individual with ITDM.
    FMCSA Response: In this final rule, the Agency continues to provide 
that ITDM individuals may be examined and medically certified by any 
certified ME on the National Registry. As such, the categories of 
healthcare professionals eligible to become certified MEs remain 
unchanged from when the National Registry was established (77 FR 24104; 
April 20, 2012). All certified MEs are required to be licensed, 
registered, or certified by their States to perform physical 
examinations. FMCSA will continue to rely on State determinations 
regarding which categories of healthcare professionals have sufficient 
education and training to qualify them to perform physical 
examinations.
    To become a certified ME and be listed on the National Registry, 
healthcare professionals are required to receive training on the 
Agency's physical qualification standards and the demands of driving a 
CMV, complete a certification test, and receive a certificate 
evidencing that they are qualified to perform medical certification 
examinations and determine who is qualified to safely operate a CMV. A 
State has found certified MEs to possess sufficient medical training to 
perform a physical examination and the Agency has found them to be 
proficient in the use of the medical protocols necessary to perform the 
medical certification examination in accordance with the FMCSRs. As 
such, the Agency's certified MEs have a significant training on 
performing medical certification examinations. Moreover, the National 
Registry allows FMCSA to monitor and audit certified MEs and to provide 
periodic training to its certified MEs.

[[Page 47493]]

    The current categories of certified MEs have been evaluating 
individuals with diabetes and have been making qualification 
determinations based on the existing physical qualification standards 
in Sec.  391.41(b) for many years. In addition, conditions that may 
result from complications of diabetes may also result from medical 
conditions other than diabetes. The Agency has no data that suggests 
MEs have had difficulty applying the physical qualification standards 
to individuals with diabetes or to any specific conditions. If a 
certified ME encounters a condition that is outside his or her scope of 
practice or requires evaluation by a specialist, FMCSA expects the 
certified ME to make any appropriate referral and to confer with the 
specialist as necessary.
    FMCSA emphasizes that the role of the certified ME is to conduct a 
medical certification examination to determine if the individual meets 
the physical qualification standards and to evaluate the safety impact 
of any medical conditions; it is not to diagnose or treat individuals. 
As such, FMCSA has concluded that it is not necessary for a certified 
ME to be licensed or certified to diagnose and treat every condition 
that is addressed by the physical qualifications standards. FMCSA has 
no data that suggests that this longstanding conclusion is flawed.
    The Agency has determined that its certified MEs are qualified to 
examine and medically certify that ITDM individuals are physically 
qualified to drive a CMV in accordance with Sec.  391.43 and new Sec.  
391.46, and are free of complications that may impair an individual's 
ability to safely operate a CMV. The Agency finds that this medical 
certification approach through certified MEs is consistent with 
congressional intent to have certified MEs make an individualized 
assessment of an individual's health status and ability to safely 
operate a CMV.

C. Definition and Qualifications of a TC

    NPRM: The NPRM defined a TC as a physician or healthcare 
professional who manages and prescribes insulin for the treatment of 
diabetes mellitus.
    Comments on the Definition and Qualifications of a TC: Because of 
the TC's personal knowledge of the driver's medical history and 
condition, both the Illinois Office of the Secretary of State and the 
Owner-Operator Independent Driver Association (OOIDA) stated that the 
TC would be able to make an accurate determination of a driver's 
condition. The Illinois Office of the Secretary of State agreed with 
FMCSA's proposal to use the TC, working with a certified ME to complete 
the physical examination of drivers.
    Some commenters, including AAPA, AAPA-OM, and TFAC, stated that a 
TC should be a physician, PA, or NP who manages and prescribes insulin 
for the treatment of individuals with diabetes mellitus. AAPA and AAPA-
OM noted these represent the three types of healthcare professionals in 
the United States who provide primary medical care. In rural and other 
medically-underserved communities, a PA may be the only healthcare 
professional.
    The AAPA-OM noted further that PAs are trained in primary care and 
complete board certification every 10 years in primary care. The AAPA-
OM commented that PAs have been treating patients with complicated 
medical conditions for over 40 years and should be allowed to continue 
the evaluations of commercial drivers with ITDM.
    The American Trucking Associations, Inc. (ATA) requested that FMCSA 
further define the term TC to reduce ambiguity and ensure the person 
making the recommendation is properly certified and knowledgeable about 
ITDM. Health & Safety Works, LLC (H&SW) was concerned FMCSA did not 
address drivers who receive insulin without a prescription and 
therefore would not have a TC. This commenter recommended FMCSA should 
state that ``anyone without a prescription or a treating clinician may 
not be qualified to operate a CMV in interstate commerce.''
    Some commenters agreed with FMCSA that TCs do not need to be 
licensed physicians or specialists in diabetes treatment and 
management, but could be other types of healthcare professionals. 
Commenters, including the ATA, the American Diabetes Association (ADA), 
the International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT), and TFAC, supported 
allowing the certified ME to consult with the TC instead of requiring 
approval from an endocrinologist, noting that driver access to board-
certified endocrinologists may be limited. The IBT wrote that the TC, 
rather than an endocrinologist, would be a more suitable medical 
provider to monitor any of the progressive conditions associated with 
diabetes (e.g., nerve damage to the extremities and diabetic 
retinopathy).
    The American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) urged FMCSA to 
allow applicants to be examined by their family physicians, rather than 
endocrinologists. This commenter noted that not all applicants have 
access to an endocrinologist, and the family physician is more than 
capable of managing and treating patients with diabetes, as well as 
completing the forms needed by CMV drivers.
    Some commenters, including the American Bus Association (ABA), two 
diabetes educators, a physician, an NP, and the Southern Company 
Entities (SOCO), disagreed with the proposal and wanted ITDM 
individuals to continue to be evaluated by endocrinologists. While ABA 
appreciated the interest in simplifying the process or putting fewer 
restrictions on the medical professionals available to drivers with 
ITDM, it could not support this proposed provision because in its 
opinion endocrinologists are the best qualified individuals to be 
engaged in the process. SOCO would require a note from the treating 
physician with a specialty in diabetes, such as an endocrinologist, who 
is also familiar with the essential job functions of a commercial 
driver. The note would document that the driver is stable and not 
experiencing hypoglycemic episodes.
    The NP objected to removing an endocrinologist from the process of 
certifying drivers with ITDM because it significantly limits objective, 
specialized medical assessment of the disease. This commenter indicated 
that primary care providers are sometimes too lenient.
    While they did not indicate that evaluation by an endocrinologist 
is necessary, some commenters stated that the TC should be a licensed 
physician or other medical professional with appropriate training. In 
order to address sufficient training in diabetes, the complications of 
diabetes, and interactions among diabetic medications, the former MRB 
members stated that an MD or DO should, at a minimum, oversee a mid-
level provider and this physician should countersign the forms 
approving the ITDM driver as safe to drive. An RN stated that drivers 
should be followed by a primary care physician. A physician commented 
that a diabetologist--not an endocrinologist--should evaluate patients 
for safety because they are better equipped to determine whether a 
patient with type 1 diabetes might be a low-risk driver. Advocates for 
Highway and Auto Safety (Advocates) stated that the Agency should 
require the TC to be a physician and establish penalties for both 
drivers and TCs who submit falsified reports, specifically concerning 
diabetes management and severe hypoglycemic reactions.
    The ADA agreed that requiring a specialist to perform evaluations 
of drivers with ITDM is unnecessary. It stated that internists or 
primary care

[[Page 47494]]

physicians--not endocrinologists--treat many individuals with diabetes 
and that there are parts of the country where no endocrinologists are 
available. The ADA commented that the important qualification is that 
the TC must have knowledge of the disease and treatment regimens in 
order to assess an individual's diabetes management and determine 
whether CMV operation is safe and practicable in accordance with the 
revised standard and accompanying diabetes guidelines.
    TFAC agreed that requiring an evaluation by a board-certified 
endocrinologist places an undue burden on a driver, due to the lack of 
these specialists nationwide. However, TFAC did not think that FMCSA's 
qualifications for a TC specified enough medical training and 
certification to evaluate properly a CMV operator with ITDM. TFAC 
recommended that the TC have completed appropriate additional training 
and have the experience to hold a certification in Advanced Diabetes 
Care and Management.
    A physician wrote that FMCSA is putting the TC, whose duty is to 
his or her patient, in the position of losing patients who will doctor 
shop until they find a TC to sign off on their condition.
    2015 MRB Report: The 2015 MRB report recommended that a TC be 
defined as the MD, DO, NP, or PA who prescribes insulin to the driver 
and is knowledgeable regarding the treatment of diabetes.
    Comments on the MRB's Report on the Definition and Qualifications 
of a TC: The AAPA stated that allowing PAs who have clinical experience 
with diabetes to act as TCs will ensure that drivers who are under the 
care of a PA can remain in compliance with FMCSA regulations, while 
continuing to see their current healthcare provider. It commented that 
this is particularly important in medically-underserved areas, where 
there may be less access to specialists. The AAPA described the breadth 
of PA education, testing, and experience, particularly as it applies to 
diabetes.
    OOIDA agreed that letting an MD, DO, NP, or PA who has prescribed 
insulin to the driver perform the assessment will provide a better way 
to determine if the driver's condition is well-controlled. It would 
reduce the costs and treatment delays caused by the requirement for an 
evaluation by a board-certified or board-eligible endocrinologist.
    A certified ME, who is an NP, commented that there is a shortage of 
MD and DO primary care providers in her region; therefore, the use of 
NPs and PAs improves access to needed care. She also stated that access 
to endocrinologists is limited in her area, so most ITDM individuals 
are managed by their primary care providers.
    The ADA stated that an appropriate TC, including endocrinologists, 
physicians, PAs, NPs, and diabetes educators, is one who is 
knowledgeable and experienced in the management of diabetes, not 
necessarily a specialist.
    A driver, a certified ME, and SOCO stated that a TC, as defined by 
the MRB, is not qualified to properly assess drivers with ITDM. These 
commenters indicated that only an endocrinologist should assess such 
drivers. The certified ME stated that the rulemaking will increase the 
burden on the certified ME and affect the certified ME's willingness to 
accept a ``clinician'' statement about a driver's control of diabetes 
mellitus.
    H&SW, the University of Utah, AAFP, Concentra, and an individual 
were not satisfied with the definition and qualifications of a TC in 
the 2015 MRB report and indicated that the TC should meet additional 
requirements. Some commenters stated that many TCs are not familiar 
with the requirements of commercial driving. For example, H&SW noted 
that the total reliance on the TC to evaluate a driver's management of 
his or her diabetes was a flaw in the proposal. H&SW pointed out that 
FMCSA has no authority over the TC. It did not agree that the Agency 
should assign responsibility to the TC, who is not certified to perform 
CMV physical examinations.
    The University of Utah wanted the TC to have knowledge of at least 
3 years of the driver's treatment--either through direct knowledge or 
from medical records. The commenter added that there also had to be a 
mechanism to stop drivers with ITDM from doctor shopping for a 
favorable opinion. Concentra stated that the TC should have treated the 
driver for the preceding 12 months, so the TC can attest to the lack of 
hypoglycemic reactions and to the driver having properly managed the 
diabetes.
    While the AAFP urged FMCSA to allow drivers to be examined by their 
primary care physicians, rather than to require examination by an 
endocrinologist, it asked FMCSA to allow only a DO or MD to perform 
these services. Both Concentra and the individual indicated that the 
non-physician healthcare professional should qualify as a TC only if 
under the supervision of an endocrinologist or other physician.
    The individual commenter warned that the TC must be held to high 
standards, and any TC who submitted a falsified or disingenuous report 
should be penalized. This commenter also wrote that FMCSA should 
require the TC to notify the Agency if the driver becomes noncompliant 
or if the driver discharges the TC.
    FMCSA Response: The final rule does not limit the TC to a specific 
discipline or require the TC to be an endocrinologist. The Agency 
agrees with commenters who stated that an appropriate TC is one who is 
knowledgeable and experienced in the management of diabetes and is not 
necessarily a specialist.
    FMCSA defines the TC in the final rule as a healthcare professional 
who manages, and prescribes insulin for, the treatment of the 
individual's diabetes mellitus as authorized by the healthcare 
professional's State licensing authority. The final rule establishes 
that the ITDM individual must have a prescription from his or her TC 
for treatment with insulin. FMCSA adds this requirement because 
prescriptive authority for some healthcare disciplines may be limited 
by the State's scope of practice. This requirement ensures that the 
healthcare professional who routinely treats the ITDM individual is the 
one who prescribes the individual's insulin for treatment.
    The Agency declines to specify disciplines that may serve as the TC 
for purposes of this rulemaking due to the differences in scopes of 
practice among States. Some areas of the country may be underserved in 
some disciplines and have greater access to other disciplines. FMCSA 
finds that identifying specific disciplines disadvantages individuals 
who may not have access to those healthcare professionals. The Agency's 
definition allows for maximum flexibility in addressing issues related 
to shortages in various categories of licensed healthcare professionals 
in all States.
    FMCSA agrees with the commenters who stated that requiring 
evaluation by an endocrinologist is burdensome to ITDM individuals 
seeking certification because of the scarcity of endocrinologists in 
many regions of our country. A June 2014 Endocrine Society white paper 
states that there were approximately 4,841 adult endocrinologists 
engaged in clinical practice in 2011, and it projected a shortage of 
1,484 adult endocrinologists by 2015.\9\ The paper also shows that 85 
percent of office visits for diabetes were with physicians other than

[[Page 47495]]

endocrinologists.\10\ As stated in the NPRM, a requirement to be 
evaluated by an endocrinologist seems impracticable for most drivers 
with ITDM (80 FR 25266). The frequent monitoring by a specialist as 
required by the exemption program was a financial burden for many 
individuals, many of whom have primary care providers who are capable 
of prescribing and managing insulin treatment for their patients. The 
Agency has concluded that the higher cost of an endocrinologist 
evaluation is not justified given that a TC can determine that the 
individual has a stable insulin regimen and properly controlled ITDM.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \9\ ``Endocrine Clinical Workforce: Supply and Demand 
Projections'' prepared for the Endocrine Society by the Lewin Group, 
2014, pp. 1-2. Available at https://www.endocrine.org/~/media/
endosociety/files/advocacy-and-outreach/important-documents/white-
paper-endocrinology-workforce-final-white-paper.pdf (May 25, 2018).
    \10\ Id. at 40.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The requirement that the TC must be the healthcare professional who 
manages, and prescribes insulin for, the treatment of the individual 
who is being evaluated makes it likely that the TC will be the 
individual's primary care provider. As the commenters indicate, primary 
care providers are well trained and experienced in managing diabetes 
and provide most care for diabetes in many areas. As such, FMCSA is not 
requiring that a qualified TC hold any specific certification or have 
any specialized training with respect to diabetes. The Agency agrees 
with commenters that TCs who have personal knowledge of an individual's 
medical history and treatment regimens will be able to make an accurate 
determination as to whether an individual maintains a stable insulin 
regimen and proper control of his or her ITDM. As such TCs managing, 
and prescribing insulin for, the treatment of ITDM individuals are 
well-suited to monitor for complications related to diabetes. FMCSA is 
confident that when necessary, TCs will refer the ITDM individual to 
appropriate specialists for any additional medical evaluations for 
diabetes-related co-morbid conditions requiring specialized diagnosis 
and treatment.
    FMCSA anticipates that the TC would have an ongoing relationship 
with the individual being evaluated, but is not requiring that the TC 
treat the individual for any specific period. If the TC is newly 
establishing a relationship with an individual seeking evaluation, the 
TC may exercise his or her independent medical judgment with respect to 
the need to obtain and review prior medical records and whether the TC 
has sufficient information to complete the ITDM Assessment Form, MCSA-
5870, and to attest the information provided is true and correct to the 
best of the TC's knowledge. Similarly, FMCSA declines to require the TC 
to notify the Agency if a driver becomes noncompliant or discharges the 
TC. The need to obtain the required information from a TC who is 
prescribing insulin for the treatment of the individual's ITDM should 
discourage noncompliance and doctor shopping for a favorable 
attestation.
    FMCSA emphasizes that it is not relying on the TCs to make the 
medical qualification determination. FMCSA is implementing the ITDM 
Assessment Form, MCSA-5870, as recommended by the 2015 MRB report, that 
asks specific questions of the TC and provides information needed for 
medical certification determinations by the certified ME. Evaluation by 
the TC in this collaborative manner is consistent with current 
certified ME practice during the medical certification process. 
Certified MEs confer routinely with and obtain the treating providers' 
opinions concerning the stability of individuals' underlying medical 
conditions and how the medical conditions may impact safety. This 
process minimizes the concern that TCs who are primary care providers 
may be lenient because certified MEs make the determination regarding 
physical qualification.

D. Role and Relationship of the TC and Certified ME

    NPRM: FMCSA proposed that, prior to the annual or more frequent 
examination by the certified ME, the ITDM individual would have to be 
evaluated by the TC. The TC would determine that within the previous 12 
months the individual had no severe hypoglycemic reaction and had 
properly managed his or her diabetes. The certified ME had to obtain 
written notification from the individual's TC that the individual's 
diabetes was being properly managed and had to evaluate whether the 
individual was physically qualified to operate a CMV.
    Comments on the Role and Relationship of the TC and Certified ME: 
The IBT supported the Agency's proposal. It stated that, although the 
TC may not be thoroughly familiar with FMCSA regulations or tasks 
performed by a CMV driver, subsequent evaluation by a certified ME 
would complement the role of the TC in the certification process. The 
ADA noted that the NPRM had not made completely clear the role of the 
certified ME in evaluating the applicant's diabetes. However, the ADA 
supported a two[hyphen]step certification process where the TC 
certifies that the individual with ITDM meets the revised diabetes 
standard and the certified ME completes the certification process with 
regard to all other aspects not related to diabetes. If the certified 
ME had concerns about an individual's diabetes, the ADA recommended 
that the certified ME should consult the TC or an independent diabetes 
healthcare professional for verification.
    A number of commenters wanted certified MEs and TCs to work 
directly together. For example, given that certified MEs are ultimately 
responsible for certifying individuals, the Transportation Trades 
Department, AFL-CIO (TTD) and the Amalgamated Transit Union wanted 
FMCSA to encourage certified MEs and TCs to work closely together so 
that fit individuals may work.
    The ACOEM added that allowing the certified ME, who has the 
training and understanding of the role of the CMV operator, to obtain 
and review additional medical information would increase the margin of 
safety in the determination, while lessening the certified ME's 
liability in relying on a TC who might not fully understand the safety 
concern. The ACOEM commented that FMCSA should require the TC to sign a 
statement saying that the ITDM individual can manage his or her health 
condition.
    A physician/certified ME, who is also board-certified in 
occupational medicine, questioned the value of having certified MEs for 
ITDM individuals, if the certified MEs simply defer to the TC. This 
commenter wanted FMCSA to clarify that a certified ME can request 
whatever medical information is necessary to make a sound 
determination. He also stated that the increased cost and 
responsibility for the certified ME would be reflected in higher fees.
    The NTSB noted that FMCSA allows healthcare professionals who are 
not licensed to prescribe medication to medically-certify individuals 
who operate CMVs. Because these certified MEs have no experience 
prescribing medications or managing the effects of insulin or other 
diabetic medications, the NTSB indicated that these certified MEs must 
accept a TC's assurance of ``proper management'' without further 
evaluation. The NTSB commented that a TC's interpretation of proper 
management, as well as the individual's compliance with 
recommendations, might vary considerably.
    TFAC noted that the certified ME is required to certify the ITDM 
individual is free of complications, while the written notification 
from the TC gives the certified ME no information about how the TC made 
that determination. This commenter proposed that ``the statement 
required from the TC make[s] it clear in the area of diabetes 
management it is the TC who is rendering the expert medical opinion 
that the driver is `safe' therefore

[[Page 47496]]

relieving the medical examiner from concerns about potential 
liability.''
    H&SW disagreed with FMCSA relying solely on the TC for information 
about the ITDM individual's management of his or her diabetes. It 
recommended that FMCSA require the collection of documentation by the 
TC as only one piece of the data gathered by the certified ME. It 
further suggested that FMCSA should also require the certified ME to 
obtain additional test and laboratory results, review glucose logs, and 
ensure the ITDM individual has received hypoglycemic awareness 
training. If documentation from a TC is the only tool the certified ME 
has, H&SW indicated the Agency is permitting the TC to make the medical 
certification decision even though he or she is not listed on the 
National Registry. A physician questioned how the certified MEs will 
protect themselves from discrimination lawsuits when they do not 
approve every individual recommended by the TCs.
    Some commenters were concerned that the NPRM did not provide the 
certified ME with sufficient specific criteria to determine if the 
individual's diabetes was properly managed or if he or she was 
physically qualified to operate a CMV. H&SW indicated that the 
certified ME needs to see the blood sugar logs and the results of the 
eye examination; ensure the driver has had hypoglycemic awareness 
training; and check the blood levels for glucose to make an evidence-
based decision regarding whether the driver is physically qualified to 
operate a CMV.
    2015 MRB Report: The 2015 MRB report recommended that a 
questionnaire be developed for the TC to complete and send to the 
certified ME. Based on the responses to the questionnaire, the TC was 
to indicate whether the individual had stable, well-controlled diabetes 
and had no severe hypoglycemic episodes over the past year, and to 
state that neither the individual's diabetes nor diabetes-related 
medical conditions would impair the ability to operate a CMV safely. 
The MRB recommended specifically that the final determination as to 
whether the ITDM individual was physically qualified to drive a CMV was 
to be made by the certified ME.
    Comments on the MRB's Report on the Role and Relationship of the TC 
and Certified ME: In response to this recommendation, OOIDA, Concentra, 
H&SW, and the ACOEM commented on the appropriate relationship between 
certified MEs and TCs. Concentra commented that certified MEs should be 
able to review a TC's records of an ITDM individual for at least the 
preceding year. OOIDA had concerns that the certified ME could override 
the TC's determinations. It suggested that certified MEs should provide 
``sound medical evidence'' before challenging the TCs findings or 
requiring individuals to undergo more testing. H&SW added that the 
certified ME should be given the tools that the TC has and should ask 
for detailed tests and laboratory reports from the TC, if needed. H&SW 
also wrote that FMCSA should put the TC in a consultation position, 
especially because the certified MEs will be held responsible should 
the ITDM individual have a crash. The ACOEM stated that certified MEs 
must review at least 3-5 years of medical records so the certified ME 
can evaluate the individual's condition independently.
    FMCSA Response: This final rule continues the two-step process for 
medical certification in which the TC evaluates the individual's 
insulin regimen and control of his or her ITDM, then a certified ME 
performs an examination and determines whether the individual is 
physically qualified under all medical standards to operate a CMV. 
FMCSA agrees with commenters that the medical information provided by 
the TC to the certified ME should be relevant and useful and allow a 
certified ME to make an appropriate medical certification determination 
on an ITDM individual. As such, FMCSA is adding a requirement in this 
final rule that the TC complete an ITDM Assessment Form, MCSA-5870, 
rather than simply provide written notification that the individual's 
diabetes was being properly managed.
    As discussed above, the Agency relies on State licensing 
authorities to make scope of practice determinations and has found that 
the TCs and certified MEs are qualified to perform their respective 
roles in this collaborative certification process. The role of the 
individual's TC, who is experienced in the management of diabetes, is 
to attest on the ITDM Assessment Form, MCSA-5870, that the individual 
maintains a stable insulin regimen and proper control of his or her 
ITDM. The role and responsibility of the certified ME, who is trained 
in FMCSA's physical qualification standards and the demands of 
operating a CMV, is to medically certify that the ITDM individual can 
safely operate a CMV. In making the qualification determination, the 
certified ME is to consider the attestation and information provided by 
the TC, but the certified ME does not automatically defer to the TC's 
attestation or rely solely on it. Consistent with current practice for 
any medical condition, the certified ME may confer with the TC 
concerning an individual's medical history and status, make appropriate 
referrals, or request medical records, all with appropriate consent.
    The final rule relies on the TC's knowledge of an individual and 
understanding of the treatment of ITDM and the certified ME's knowledge 
of the requirements to operate a CMV and FMCSA regulations. FMCSA 
agrees with commenters and the MRB, as discussed more fully below, that 
the certified ME must be provided with more information regarding how 
the TC made his or her determinations. This rule adopts the ITDM 
Assessment Form, MCSA-5870, as the way to communicate that information.
    The form requests specific information to assist both the TC and 
the certified ME in evaluating and assessing whether an ITDM individual 
maintains a stable insulin regimen and proper control of his or her 
diabetes. The TC will have the relevant and current information on the 
individual's medical history needed to complete and sign the ITDM 
Assessment Form, MCSA-5870.
    FMCSA notes that, if a certified ME also meets the qualifications 
to be an individual's TC, the certified ME may perform the TC 
evaluation and medical certification examination contemporaneously. The 
certified ME who also acts as the TC must still complete the ITDM 
Assessment Form, MCSA-5870.

E. TC Written Notification (ITDM Assessment Form)

    NPRM: FMCSA proposed that the certified ME must obtain written 
notification from the individual's TC that the individual's diabetes is 
being managed properly.
    Comments on TC Written Notification: Some commenters stated that 
FMCSA should develop a comprehensive form to organize the certification 
criteria, thus ensuring that the information was complete and providing 
the certified ME the information necessary to determine that the 
individual is physically qualified. The former MRB members suggested a 
form that includes sections completed by the driver, the TC, and an 
ophthalmologist or optometrist. Some commenters, like the ADA, OOIDA, 
the IBT, and the ACOEM, recommended the use of specific forms or 
checklists that they suggested be adopted. Several commenters had 
extensive lists of documentation they suggested the TC should provide 
to the certified ME

[[Page 47497]]

including: Properly-maintained glucose logs; proof of proper diabetes 
management and compliance; records related to any hypoglycemic 
episodes; HbA1C testing results; and proof of yearly preventive care to 
screen for the long-term side effects of diabetes, such as retinopathy. 
Some commenters, like the ACOEM, requested a full packet of 
documentation be submitted to the certified ME.
    Many commenters said the requirements of the proposed rule needed 
clarity or more specific guidance for the TC or certified ME to use to 
decide whether an ITDM individual may operate a CMV in interstate 
commerce. Concentra suggested that the Agency review the criteria with 
leading endocrinologists who specialize in diabetes.
    Other commenters suggested adoption of best practices. The NTSB 
suggested that FMCSA emulate the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) 
and the United States Coast Guard, which require operators with ITDM to 
be evaluated using published or scientifically-based standards. An 
individual commenter suggested that FMCSA model the requirements after 
FAA requirements, adjusted to allow ITDM individuals to take insulin by 
pump or manual injection. H&SW provided specific recommendations, some 
based on requirements cited by the ADA and Canada's qualifications for 
ITDM individuals.
    TFAC understood FMCSA's reluctance to make very specific medical 
requirements, as the science of treatment options changes; yet, it 
noted there is a need for specificity in medical requirements to ensure 
there is consistency in how certified MEs handle situations. TFAC 
stated that without clear criteria, normal practice standards would be 
established by individual certified MEs and litigators, rather than by 
FMCSA through rulemaking. A physician who had experience with a 
discrimination lawsuit stated that, unless FMCSA provides specific 
certification guidance, the TC and the certified ME will avoid the risk 
of litigation by allowing individuals who should not be driving to get 
an MEC, MCSA-5876.
    2015 MRB Report: The 2015 MRB report recommended that FMCSA develop 
a questionnaire for the TC to provide to the certified ME and provided 
an outline of specific information to obtain. The TC would complete, 
sign, and send the form to the certified ME. The form would also be 
signed by the ITDM individual. The report also recommended specific 
criteria in several areas including severe hypoglycemic episodes, 
glucose logs and self-monitoring blood glucose, HbA1C results, eye 
examinations, and diabetic complications.
    Comments on the General MRB Recommendation to Develop a Form: The 
AAPA supported using the MRB recommended form as proposed. It stated 
that the degree of uniformity provided by the form would ensure that 
all TCs are assessing commercial drivers in the same way and using the 
same metrics when evaluating a driver's health. Additionally, a 
certified ME commended inclusion of the TC's signature and stated that 
the form would facilitate communication between the certified ME and 
TC. The ADA appreciated the efforts of the MRB to provide instruction 
to the TC regarding clinical indicators for evaluation but indicated 
the criteria were medically inappropriate in several places. An 
endocrinologist provided a sample of an assessment form used by the 
Pennsylvania DOT in the evaluation of ITDM drivers.
    Concentra stated that the MRB-proposed form was lengthy, complex, 
and lacked specific direction, particularly in identifying serious co-
morbid diseases. The University of Utah stated that the form was just 
an outline and needed exact requirements and consequences. It wanted a 
place for the ITDM individual to sign to attest to its truthfulness and 
to include a penalty for that individual not being truthful. It also 
stated that the final draft form should be made available to the public 
for comment. The ADA stated that having an ITDM individual sign the 
form would be inappropriate because FMCSA does not have the legal 
authority to require the TC to report any information to a certified ME 
unless the patient provides express permission for such reporting.
    Proposed ITDM Assessment Form: FMCSA agreed with commenters that a 
form would enhance communication between the TC and certified ME and 
provide consistent information to certified MEs. Accordingly, FMCSA 
prepared a proposed ITDM Assessment Form and published a 60-day notice 
on July 27, 2017, announcing that it was considering replacing the 
previously proposed written notification from the TC with the ITDM 
Assessment Form (82 FR 35041). The Agency sought comment on the form, 
which is available in the docket for this rulemaking.
    Comments on the ITDM Assessment Form: Five commenters provided 
substantive comments specific to the ITDM Assessment Form in response 
to the 60-day notice. An endocrinologist wholeheartedly agreed with the 
proposed approach of the form. A certified ME supported the use of the 
form and stated that it should be passed along to the treating primary 
care physician for completion and then should be reviewed by a 
certified ME who is knowledgeable about the challenges of driving a 
CMV. Another certified ME was concerned that the form requests 
information on severe hypoglycemic events for only the past 3 months. 
This commenter stated that he ``would want to know of any severe 
hypoglycemic events over the past 5 years, as previous guidance from 
the FMCSA Examiner's Handbook for diabetics not on insulin, was not to 
certify if there had been a severe hypoglycemic event within the past 
12 months, or 2 within the last 5 years.'' The commenter also wanted to 
know the lowest recorded finger-stick blood glucose over the preceding 
3 months and all HbA1c results for the preceding year. An MD stated 
that the form should include questions about co-morbid conditions such 
as peripheral neuropathy, sleep apnea, uncontrolled hyperlipidemia, or 
hypertension being treated by the TC.
    The ADA was concerned about the requirement that a driver be on a 
stable insulin regimen for the prior 3 months. The ADA also stated that 
the Agency requires the driver to have his or her HbA1C measured 
intermittently over the last 12 months with the most recent measure 
within the preceding 3 months and noted that newly-diagnosed 
individuals will not have that data.
    FMCSA Response: The Agency agrees with commenters that more than 
written notification from the individual's TC that the individual's 
diabetes is being managed properly should be provided by the TC to the 
certified ME. The final rule requires that the TC complete the ITDM 
Assessment Form, MCSA-5870, to provide additional information for the 
certified ME about the ITDM individual's medical history. The Agency 
has considered the forms and checklists provided by commenters, and has 
determined that the ITDM Assessment Form, MCSA-5870, collects the 
appropriate information to enable the certified ME to make his or her 
certification determination. Comments on specific criteria are 
discussed below by substantive area.
    With respect to the comment that the form should be completed by 
the treating primary care physician, FMCSA is not limiting the TC role 
to physicians. As discussed above, FMCSA expects that the TC will be 
the individual's primary care provider for diabetes treatment.

[[Page 47498]]

    A certified ME determines whether an individual meets FMCSA's 
physical qualification standards as of the time of the medical 
certification examination. Therefore, FMCSA has determined that 
providing information to the certified ME regarding whether an ITDM 
individual has had a severe hypoglycemic episode in the prior 3 months 
is generally sufficient. As discussed elsewhere in this preamble, that 
time frame coincides with the Agency's requirement that an ITDM 
individual provide the TC with 3 months of blood glucose self-
monitoring records to be eligible for up to the maximum 12-month MEC, 
MCSA-5876. The Agency finds that this is a balanced approach for ITDM 
individuals that allows time to demonstrate a stable insulin regimen 
and proper control of ITDM, while providing enough information for the 
certified ME to determine whether the individual can safely operate a 
CMV. In any event, an ITDM individual is also required to provide the 
certified ME with a completed ITDM Assessment Form, MCSA-5870, for any 
severe hypoglycemic episodes that may have occurred since any previous 
medical certification examination, so the certified ME will be aware of 
such episodes. With respect to comments suggesting that the form be 
consistent with guidelines provided in the Medical Examiner Handbook, 
FMCSA notes that the Handbook, a tool certified MEs could consider 
during the medical certification process, has now been withdrawn.
    The ITDM Assessment Form, MCSA-5870, already includes questions 
about co-morbid medical conditions as suggested by a commenter. It also 
provides an area for additional comments by the TC where other relevant 
conditions may be referenced.
    The final rule requires that, to be eligible for up to the maximum 
12-month MEC, MCSA-5876, all ITDM individuals must provide to the TC at 
least the preceding 3 months of blood glucose self-monitoring records 
while being treated with insulin. If an individual does not provide the 
3 months of records, the certified ME has discretion to grant the 
individual up to but not more than a 3-month MEC, to allow time for the 
individual to collect the necessary records. Once the individual has 3 
months of blood glucose self-monitoring records, the individual is 
treated the same as an ITDM individual with 3 months of records. The 
individual must first go to the TC for evaluation and then to the 
certified ME, who must exercise independent medical judgment, to 
determine if the individual is eligible for up to the maximum 12-month 
MEC.
    The form asks has the individual had HbA1C measured intermittently 
over the last 12 months, with the most recent measure within the 
preceding 3 months, and, if so, to attach the most recent result. The 
Agency notes that the lack of HbA1C data does not automatically 
disqualify an individual from being medically certified.
    In the final form, FMCSA made changes to be consistent with the 
terminology, definitions, and requirements in the final rule. The 
Agency also made minor changes to improve clarity and organization. 
More specifically, a sentence was added to specify that the certified 
ME must receive the form and begin the medical examination no later 
than 45 days after the date on the signed form; however, FMCSA notes 
that the medical certification determination does not need to be 
completed within 45 days. The Agency also added a provision that an 
ITDM individual who is being evaluated after a severe hypoglycemic 
episode must retain the form and give it to the certified ME at the 
next medical certification examination. FMCSA removed the question that 
asked whether the individual experienced any severe hypoglycemic 
episodes in the absence of warning symptoms in the preceding 3 months. 
The Agency found the question was redundant of the general request for 
information about severe hypoglycemic episodes. The Agency added a 
request for the individual's driver's license number and issuing State, 
but agrees with the ADA that it is not appropriate for the form to 
require the individual's signature. The Agency also added a request for 
the TC's medical credential, as well as professional license number and 
the issuing State, to be able to identify these individuals. Finally, 
FMCSA modified the TC's attestation on the form.
    The Agency notes that the ITDM Assessment Form, MCSA-5870, is 
available on FMCSA's Medical Programs and National Registry websites. 
Additionally, once the TC has signed and dated the form as required, 
the form is provided to the certified ME by either the ITDM individual 
or the TC.

F. Certified ME Certification and TC Evaluation Frequency

    NPRM: In the NPRM, FMCSA proposed that at least annually, a 
certified ME listed on the National Registry must examine and certify 
that the ITDM individual is physically qualified and free of 
complications that would impair the individual's ability to operate a 
CMV. Prior to the annual or more frequent certified ME's examination, 
the individual would have to be evaluated by the TC.
    Comments on Certified ME Certification and TC Evaluation Frequency: 
While some commenters wanted an interval of 2 years between medical 
certification of drivers, others stated the ITDM individual should be 
examined more frequently. For example, the ADA, SOCO, Advocates, and 
H&SW agreed with the proposed interval of at least annual examination. 
The ATA and AAPA-OM suggested a graduated approach whereby certified 
MEs would issue shorter-term medical certifications initially and 
longer-term certifications after the initial period during which the 
ITDM individual demonstrated his or her condition was stable and 
properly controlled. The ATA recommended that the longest term of 
certification should not exceed a year. A physician/certified ME wrote 
that the endocrinologist is responsible for stating that the ITDM 
individual is well controlled throughout the year; this commenter 
stated that the NPRM took a step back from the effort to improve 
medical examinations.
    2015 MRB Report: The 2015 MRB report recommended that a certified 
ME could certify an ITDM individual as medically qualified for no more 
than 1 year if the individual had no disqualifying factors. The MRB did 
not make a specific recommendation regarding the frequency of the TC 
evaluation. No comments were received concerning the MRB report in this 
regard.
    FMCSA Response: FMCSA agrees with commenters who stated that ITDM 
individuals should not be granted medical certification for a period 
longer than 12 months. Annual or more frequent recertification by the 
certified ME allows for earlier detection and consideration of any 
changes or complications that may impact an ITDM individual's ability 
to safely operate a CMV. If a certified ME determines an individual 
should not be qualified for the maximum 12 months, the certified ME may 
certify that individual for a shorter period. FMCSA finds that this 
approach allows for the application of individualized medical 
certification determinations based on the certified ME's medical 
discretion. ITDM individuals must see their TC prior to every medical 
certification examination to ensure they maintain a stable insulin 
regimen and proper control of their ITDM as the rule requires.

[[Page 47499]]

G. Annual Certification of Individuals With Diabetes Mellitus Not 
Treated With Insulin

    NPRM: In the NPRM, the Agency did not propose that individuals with 
diabetes mellitus not treated with insulin (non-ITDM individuals) be 
recertified at least annually. However, FMCSA cited the 2007 MRB 
recommendation to require annual or more frequent medical 
recertification for all individuals with diabetes mellitus, and 
requested comment on the recommendation.
    Comments on Annual Certification of Non-ITDM Individuals: The IBT, 
Illinois Office of the Secretary of State, and the ADA said the Agency 
should not require that non-ITDM individuals obtain recertification at 
least annually because a change to the current procedure for qualifying 
these individuals is not warranted. The ADA commented that non-ITDM 
individuals should be able to hold a medical certificate for up to 24 
months like other individuals, unless their healthcare provider or the 
certified ME determines otherwise. In contrast, Advocates recommended 
that the Agency should establish more frequent medical certification 
for all individuals with diabetes.
    2015 MRB Report: The 2015 MRB report did not address the 
requirement that non-ITDM individuals be recertified at least annually; 
no comments were received concerning the MRB report in this regard.
    FMCSA Response: FMCSA agrees with commenters that a 2-year 
recertification period for non-ITDM individuals is appropriate and will 
not adopt the MRB's 2007 recommendation. FMCSA finds that is not 
necessary to impose a requirement for annual certification of these 
individuals because certified MEs have a long history with 
certification of non-ITDM individuals. Certified MEs have been trained 
that they may issue short duration MECs, MCSA-5876, for medical 
conditions that require frequent monitoring or where additional medical 
information is needed. Moreover, the commenters provided no data that 
suggests annual medical certification of non-ITDM individuals is 
warranted.

H. Eye Examinations

    NPRM: The NPRM did not propose any changes to the existing vision 
standards. The Agency requested comments on the need for an ITDM 
individual to be examined by an optometrist or ophthalmologist as a 
condition of passing the physical examination.
    Comments on Eye Examinations: The ADA commented that it should be 
left to the judgment of the TC to refer the individual to an 
optometrist or ophthalmologist, as needed, based on clinical indicators 
that a screening by an eye specialist is necessary. The ADA's Standards 
of Medical Care recommend that individuals with type 1 diabetes be 
screened for retinopathy within 5 years of diagnosis because 
retinopathy is estimated to take at least 5 years to develop following 
hyperglycemia. The Standards of Care recommend that patients with type 
2 diabetes be screened shortly after diagnosis. The ADA further 
commented that after one or more normal eye examinations, individuals 
with well-controlled type 2 diabetes had essentially no risk of 
developing significant retinopathy within 3 years of a normal 
examination. According to the ADA's comments, ``[n]ot all individuals 
with diabetes will develop vision complications, and among those that 
do, not all will interfere with safe driving ability. As such, only 
those CMV drivers who pose a high risk--because of the presence of 
complications that interfere with driving, such as impaired vision--
should be further assessed by a specialist to determine if the risk is 
too high.'' OOIDA endorsed the comments submitted by the ADA.
    The Illinois Office of the Secretary of State agreed with the 
proposal, provided that the ITDM individual can meet the vision 
standards in Sec.  391.41(b)(10). It stated that the process will 
provide a reasonable certainty that any ITDM individual who cannot meet 
the standards will be discovered by the certified ME during the annual 
examination and the process will not present any threat to general 
traffic safety. The IBT also agreed with the proposal and FMCSA that 
meeting the vision acuity standard provides `` `reasonable certainty of 
discovering and mitigating risks associated with any safety-related 
condition that would interfere with meeting the standard, including 
diabetic retinopathy.' ''
    Some commenters, including H&SW and the ACOEM, stated that FMCSA 
should require an annual evaluation from an ophthalmologist or 
optometrist. SOCO suggested that FMCSA should require a note from an 
ophthalmologist or optometrist stating that the individual is free of 
diabetic-related retinal disease and vision impairing cataracts and has 
good field of vision in both eyes. The NTSB stated that diabetic 
retinopathy can cause loss of areas of vision without affecting acuity; 
therefore, a dilated retinal eye examination is an annual standard of 
care for most ITDM individuals. It indicated that eliminating the 
annual ophthalmological examination will increase the likelihood of 
ITDM individuals driving CMVs with significant diabetic retinopathy and 
degraded visual performance, which will pose a hazard to public safety. 
A physician/certified ME stated that if the exemption program is 
eliminated he will continue to expect at least annual assessment from 
an ophthalmologist.
    Several commenters that were in favor of requiring annual eye 
examinations, including the American Optometric Association (AOA) and 
the former MRB members, noted that the certified ME may not have the 
experience and training to perform dilated eye examinations or have the 
specialized equipment necessary to do so. The former MRB members noted 
that by the time an ITDM individual experiences reduced visual acuity 
that is captured by the relatively crude examination performed by a 
certified ME, it is often too late to avoid complications. Thus, the 
former MRB members stated there is further need for mandatory, annual 
eye examinations for retinopathy by ophthalmologists or optometrists.
    The AOA noted it is important to understand that the entire range 
of diabetic retinopathy complications are predominantly asymptomatic 
and can occur without any deterioration in visual acuity. It stated 
that a visual acuity test is not a substitute for a dilated eye 
examination, which is the only appropriate method for evaluating the 
eye health of ITDM individuals and for predicting with high confidence 
which individuals will retain adequate visual function in the interim 
between eye examinations. It was concerned that the current proposal 
could put drivers and the public at serious risk. The AOA suggested, 
rather than requiring evaluation by an ophthalmologist, FMCSA could 
reduce the cost and burden to ITDM individuals, while maintaining 
quality of evaluation, by allowing a doctor of optometry to evaluate 
those applicants.
    TFAC suggested FMCSA require a vision examination by a qualified 
eye specialist when the individual goes on insulin treatment and every 
2 years thereafter. It suggested that the eye specialist complete a 
form acknowledging familiarity with the requirements of 49 CFR and the 
physical demands of a CMV operator.
    2015 MRB Report: The 2015 MRB report included the recommendation 
that ITDM individuals receive a complete eye examination by a qualified 
ophthalmologist or optometrist, including a dilated retinal 
examination, at least every 2 years. This examination should document 
the presence or

[[Page 47500]]

absence of retinopathy and macular edema, and, if present, the degree 
using the International Classification of Diabetic Retinopathy and 
Diabetic Macular Edema. The MRB advised increasing the frequency of 
these examinations based on the ophthalmological findings.
    Comments on the MRB's Report on Eye Examinations: HS&W concurred 
with the MRB's recommendation. The National Rural Electric Cooperative 
Association commented that it was not opposed to a comprehensive eye 
examination \11\ every 2 years, but having the TC attest that the TC 
reviewed the results of the report was ``duplicative at best and 
onerous at worst.''
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \11\ The AOA commented that ``comprehensive eye examination'' is 
the proper terminology to describe the general evaluation of the 
complete visual system, including a dilated retinal examination, 
rather than ``an ophthalmology or optometry exam.''
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The AOA, the ACOEM, and several individuals suggested a 
comprehensive eye examination should be conducted on an annual basis. 
The AOA stated that its evidence-based guidelines explain that the 
clinical signs of diabetic retinopathy can appear early in the disease 
process; however, individuals many not experience symptoms until 
relatively late, at which time treatment may be less effective. The AOA 
noted that ``[t]he success of appropriate intervention and management 
strategies depends upon accurate and timely detection of diabetic eye 
disease.'' The University of Utah stated that individuals with non-
proliferative retinopathy should be required to have annual 
comprehensive eye examinations.
    The ADA repeated its prior comments to the NPRM that an annual 
comprehensive eye examination is not required by its Standards of Care. 
It again concluded that it should be left to the judgment of the TC to 
refer the ITDM individual to an ophthalmologist or optometrist as 
needed.
    FMCSA Response: This rule does not include a mandatory requirement 
or specify the frequency for comprehensive eye examinations for ITDM 
individuals. FMCSA finds the Standards of Care and comments presented 
by the ADA to be persuasive and reasonable. Given that not all 
individuals with diabetes will develop vision complications, FMCSA has 
determined that it would be inconsistent with the rule's emphasis on 
individualized assessment to impose a required frequency for a separate 
comprehensive eye examination by an ophthalmologist or optometrist as a 
condition of passing the medical certification examination for all ITDM 
individuals. FMCSA also finds that to do so is inconsistent with 
Congress' instruction that the Agency may not hold ITDM individuals to 
a higher standard than other individuals unless it is medically 
necessary. The Agency's determination that annual comprehensive eye 
examinations should not be required also is supported by the MRB's 
recommendation that ITDM individuals undergo such examinations every 2 
years, unless clinical indicators suggest otherwise.
    The Agency finds that the TC is in the best position to determine 
for each ITDM individual when a comprehensive eye examination is 
necessary and, when warranted, to make a referral to an ophthalmologist 
or optometrist. If any eye condition that may impact an ITDM 
individual's ability to safely operate a CMV is present, it is 
reasonable for the Agency to expect that the ITDM individual's TC will 
ensure that proper comprehensive eye examinations are obtained to 
appropriately monitor any progressive vision impairment. As with all 
medical certification examinations, with the ITDM individual's consent, 
the certified ME may confer as needed with the TC or an eye specialist 
to determine whether additional information or evaluation is necessary 
prior to the medical certification decision.
    The final rule does not change the existing requirement that all 
individuals must meet the vision standard in Sec.  391.41(b)(10) to 
operate a CMV. The Agency continues to find that meeting the vision 
standard provides reasonable certainty of discovering and mitigating 
risks associated with any safety-related condition that would interfere 
with meeting the standard. As such, this rule does not include a 
mandatory requirement or specify the frequency for comprehensive eye 
examinations for ITDM individuals.

I. Disqualification for Vision Impairment

    NPRM: The NPRM did not propose that any specific visual 
complications associated with diabetes would disqualify an ITDM 
individual from being medically qualified.
    Comments on Disqualification for Vision Impairment: Commenters 
stated that no diabetic retinopathy above stage 1 is acceptable. The 
risks of progression, which may occur very suddenly, are too high. No 
laser treatments or intraocular injections for retinopathy should be 
allowed. Additionally, vision exemptions should not be acceptable in 
this context.
    2015 MRB Report: If ITDM individuals had stage 3 or 4 of diabetic 
retinopathy, the MRB recommended that such individuals be disqualified 
permanently from medical certification.\12\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \12\ The Agency sought clarification from the MRB and was 
informed that stage 3 diabetic retinopathy could be termed severe 
non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy and stage 4 diabetic 
retinopathy could be termed severe proliferative diabetic 
retinopathy.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Comments on the MRB's Report on Disqualification for Vision 
Impairment: Commenters agreed that stage 3 or 4 retinopathy should be a 
permanent disqualification because of the significant risk of sudden 
vision compromise from bleeding or retinal detachment. In addition, the 
ADA noted that the standard treatment for this stage is pan-retinal 
photocoagulation, which cuts down night vision and peripheral vision 
that are important to CMV operation.
    The University of Utah stated that anything beyond non-
proliferative retinopathy should be disqualifying because 
epidemiological studies suggest sudden onset of vision impairment is 
too common. This commenter also stated that it should be made clear 
that any laser treatments or intraocular injections for treatment of 
retinopathy would preclude driving. Additionally, monocular driving in 
combination with any degree of retinopathy, not just stage 3 or 4 
retinopathy, should be clearly disqualifying due to the inability to 
have a compensatory eye combined with the potential suddenness of onset 
of vision impairments.
    In contrast, an endocrinologist stated the 2015 MRB recommendation 
is relatively arbitrary. Proliferative retinopathy, even after laser 
therapy, affects vision variably. Thus, not all individuals in these 
categories will have significant vision impairment. The endocrinologist 
commented that the criterion should be based on function, such as 
acuity, night vision, and response times to stimuli in the periphery of 
visual fields. An individual wrote that, if an ITDM individual receives 
treatment for the diabetic retinopathy and an ophthalmologist states 
that the individual can operate a CMV safely, the retinopathy should 
not be a disqualifying factor.
    FMCSA Response: This final rule requires that the certified ME 
disqualify permanently from medical certification any ITDM individual 
who is diagnosed with severe non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy or 
proliferative diabetic retinopathy.
    The Agency agrees with the 2015 MRB report and commenters that ITDM 
individuals with advanced stages of diabetic retinopathy pose a safety 
risk while operating a CMV. ITDM individuals whose diabetic retinopathy 
has reached the advanced stages of

[[Page 47501]]

severe non-proliferative or proliferative diabetic retinopathy are at 
risk of sudden incapacitation from a detached retina or bleeding. FMCSA 
agrees, therefore, that ITDM individuals with severe non-proliferative 
or proliferative diabetic retinopathy should be disqualified 
permanently from operating a CMV. Given that treatment for advanced 
diabetic retinopathy impacts night and peripheral vision adversely, 
which are important for operating a CMV, the Agency has determined that 
there is a rational basis to find that ITDM individuals with severe 
non-proliferative or proliferative diabetic retinopathy should be 
permanently disqualified from being medically certified, despite 
treatment.
    The Agency declines to incorporate any specific definition of 
severe non-proliferative or proliferative diabetic retinopathy in 
either the ITDM Assessment Form, MCSA-5870, or the regulation. Instead, 
the Agency refers to classification categories created by eye 
specialists, such as the National Eye Institute \13\ and the 
International Clinical Diabetic Retinopathy Disease Severity Scale,\14\ 
with which eye specialists are familiar and well versed for the 
definitions. Adding a specific definition would not assist the trained 
eyecare specialist in making a clinical determination.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \13\ See https://nei.nih.gov/diabetes/content/english/know 
(Accessed May 25, 2018).
    \14\ See https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3874488/ 
(Accessed May 25, 2018).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    With respect to the disqualification determination process, the 
ITDM Assessment Form, MCSA-5870, asks the TC whether the ITDM 
individual has been diagnosed with severe non-proliferative diabetic 
retinopathy or proliferative diabetic retinopathy. If it is noted on 
the form that the ITDM individual has been diagnosed as such, the 
certified ME may rely on that representation and disqualify the 
individual permanently from medical certification. Alternatively, the 
certified ME may exercise his or her independent medical judgment and 
refer the individual for further evaluation prior to making a 
certification determination.

J. HbA1C Levels

    NPRM: The NPRM did not propose a standard for HbA1C levels for 
medical qualification of ITDM individuals.\15\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \15\ The A1C blood test is often referred to as the hemoglobin 
A1C, HbA1C, or glycohemoglobin test. See https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/tests-diagnosis/a1c-test#1 
(Accessed Sept. 13, 2017).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Comments on HbA1C: The former MRB members wanted FMCSA to state its 
position on acceptable HbA1C levels, and recommended that driving be 
allowed when the HbA1C is below 10 percent. A physician indicated that 
FMCSA needs to establish specific guidance regarding what HbA1C level 
would enable an individual to operate a CMV safely and asked whether a 
level of 12 percent is satisfactory. The commenter stated that FMCSA 
will need to provide a table as it does for blood pressure. An RN 
stated that ITDM individuals should be required to have an HbA1C test 
every 3 months. Another commenter stated that an individual should 
check his or her HbA1C every 6 months.
    The ACOEM and TFAC would require the TC to send the certified ME 
the current HbA1C results. TFAC stated that this should be done within 
30 days of certification. TFAC commented further that the HbA1C test 
provides the best information available on long-term control and cannot 
be falsified as a daily blood glucose log can. The NTSB suggested that 
FMCSA could require clinical information, including HbA1C levels, from 
the TC to demonstrate that the individual meets specified criteria.
    The ADA, on the other hand, opposed requiring a specific HbA1C 
range when licensing ITDM individuals, and recommended that FMCSA not 
use this ``medically unjustified criterion'' in any form. The ADA noted 
that, taken alone, an HbA1C above 7 percent in no way indicates the 
individual cannot operate a CMV safely. The ADA, along with the ACOEM, 
maintained that an HbA1C test is a useful indicator of diabetes 
management when used in conjunction with other assessment tools to 
assess an individual's ability to drive safely. The ADA wrote that 
diabetes management decisions should be made by an individual and his 
or her physician based on how diabetes affects that person.
    2015 MRB Report: The 2015 MRB report recommended that an ITDM 
individual with uncontrolled diabetes be disqualified from operating 
CMVs. The evidence for uncontrolled diabetes would be an HbA1C level 
greater than 10 percent. The ITDM individual could be reinstated when 
his or her HbA1C level is less than or equal to 10 percent.
    Comments on the MRB's Report on HbA1C: The ACOEM was the sole 
commenter who supported this recommendation. It added that the ITDM 
individual could be reinstated only when the recommended HbA1C level is 
maintained for at least 3 months.
    Some commenters objected to a threshold of 10 percent. An MD 
commented that this level does not take into consideration individual 
variability in glycation rate and that the criterion could be tighter. 
An individual wrote that HbA1C is not clearly defined as a range as it 
is in Canadian and European regulations nor is the level in the healthy 
or controlled range.
    Other commenters, including H&SW, an MD, the ADA, and the ATA, 
objected to the use of HbA1C altogether to determine whether an 
individual is safe to drive. H&SW wrote that the HbA1C test measures 
average blood sugar over 3 months, and does not give information about 
hypoglycemic episodes. An MD commented that he is not aware of any 
evidence that a high HbA1C renders an individual unfit to drive. The MD 
added that, while a high HbA1C may result in neuropathy, retinopathy, 
and other end organ damage that could lead to unsafe driving, these 
conditions take many years to develop and an HbA1C greater than 10 
percent does not mean that an individual has these conditions. Because 
individuals on oral medications would be allowed to drive with HbA1C 
levels higher than 10 percent, the MD indicated that this rule would 
discriminate against ITDM individuals and create a disincentive for 
individuals to seek appropriate treatment with insulin. The MD 
recommended either removing this recommendation or increasing the HbA1C 
threshold to 12 percent.
    The ADA and the ATA wrote that the HbA1C test is a useful indicator 
of poor diabetes management when used with other assessment tools. The 
ADA highlighted that the HbA1C measure does not predict hypoglycemia. 
Additionally, a high HbA1C does not impair driving, and evaluation of 
end organ damage will identify individuals whose diabetes leads to 
complications that impact safe driving. The ATA stated that 
disqualifying an individual for an HbA1C level greater than 10 percent 
may be somewhat arbitrary. This recommendation could create a disparity 
between individuals who are managing their diabetes with and without 
insulin. The ATA suggested that the certified ME should work with the 
TC to determine whether a high HbA1C presents a danger. It recommended 
further that FMCSA should consider other factors, in addition to a high 
HbA1C level, for determining whether an individual's diabetes is well-
controlled and maintained.
    FMCSA Response: FMCSA agrees with comments that HbA1C values should 
not be relied upon as a sole measure of an ITDM individual's ability to 
safely operate a CMV. The final rule allows the TC to evaluate all 
relevant clinical factors to determine whether an individual maintains 
proper control of

[[Page 47502]]

his or her ITDM. HbA1C levels are one factor the TC may consider in 
making that determination.
    FMCSA agrees further that making a medical qualification 
determination based solely on a specific HbA1C level is inconsistent 
with the rule's emphasis on individualized assessment. In addition, the 
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease states 
that HbA1C test results can be up to 0.5 percent higher or lower than 
the reported actual percentage; can be unreliable for people of 
African, Mediterranean, or Southeast Asian heritage; and can be altered 
by diseases that affect blood or hemoglobin.\16\ While a high HbA1C 
level may suggest that complications from diabetes might develop in the 
future, it does not mean that an individual presently has complications 
or is unsafe to drive a CMV.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \16\ See https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/tests-diagnosis/a1c-test#1 (Accessed Sept. 13, 2017).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The ITDM Assessment Form, MCSA-5870, asks the TC to report whether 
the individual has had HbA1C measured intermittently over the past 12 
months, with the most recent measure within the preceding 3 months. If 
so, a copy of the most recent laboratory result is to be attached to 
the form so that it is available to the certified ME.

K. Specific Blood Glucose Limits

    NPRM: The NPRM did not propose a specific range for blood glucose 
readings.
    Comments on Establishing Specific Glucose Limits: The NTSB 
suggested FMCSA require ITDM individuals meet specified criteria to 
demonstrate that their diabetes is properly managed, including an 
acceptable range for blood glucose. Some commenters, including a 
retired FAA safety inspector, the former MRB members, an RN, the ACOEM, 
and H&SW, recommended specific acceptable blood glucose limits. The 
retired FAA safety inspector stated that a reading lower than 80 mg/dL 
should be flagged, which would give the individual time to correct 
blood glucose. The former MRB members said ITDM individuals should 
maintain blood glucose levels of at least 100 mg/dL while driving. If a 
blood glucose value is less than 60 mg/dL, the ACOEM would require the 
individual to repeat the test at least every 30 minutes until 90 mg/dL 
is reached. During this time, the individual would have to document 
that he or she was not driving and provide additional documentation on 
the low reading. H&SW stated that a blood glucose level within the 
normal range of 80 to 140 mg/dL would be appropriate.
    The ADA wrote that it is appropriate to evaluate blood glucose 
readings. However, there is no legitimate medical reason to 
automatically disqualify individuals whose blood glucose logs show some 
readings below 100 mg/dL or above 400 mg/dL, as stipulated in the 
current exemption program.
    2015 MRB Report: The MRB recommended that if an ITDM individual had 
a blood glucose measure of less than 60 mg/dL, as demonstrated in the 
current glucose logs, the individual would be disqualified for at least 
6 months.
    Comments on the MRB's Report on Establishing Specific Blood Glucose 
Limits: Many commenters objected to the disqualification of an ITDM 
individual for having a single reading below 60 mg/dL. Several 
commenters stated that it was not appropriate to set a blood glucose 
standard for when an individual is not on duty. They, along with the 
ATA and ADA, discussed that a single reading of a blood glucose level 
below 60 mg/dL should not be sufficient to disqualify an ITDM 
individual. They stated that the Agency should consider whether a low 
blood glucose recording was an isolated incident or part of an overall 
pattern of poorly-controlled diabetes.
    The ADA stated that the recommendation is ``an extreme overreaction 
to the potential risk of hypoglycemia, and does not provide for 
individualized assessment of a specific driver's diabetes risk.'' It 
continued that a blood glucose level less than 60 mg/dL is dangerous 
only if it is not treated. The ADA commented that, instead of 
disqualifying the individual, it is important to determine the cause of 
the low blood glucose level. The ADA strongly urged the Agency to 
eliminate all categorical glucose levels from the list of disqualifying 
factors.
    An endocrinologist stated that all ITDM individuals will have some 
blood glucose readings below 60 mg/dL, perhaps once a week. In the 
endocrinologist's opinion, disqualifying individuals for a blood 
glucose level any time it was under 60 mg/dL would be ``unreasonable/
discriminatory.'' A different MD stated that disqualification based on 
a onetime reading of less than 60 mg/dL ``seems arbitrary.'' The MD 
continued that ``[t]his rare low blood glucose reading does not imply 
the driver's diabetes is uncontrolled or that the driver has a problem 
with hypoglycemic unawareness.''
    The ATA noted that there are several factors that can cause blood 
glucose to drop low, including titration following a new treatment. For 
this reason, the ATA stated that the TC and certified ME should review 
blood glucose logs to determine whether the low blood glucose level was 
an isolated incident.
    The ACOEM stated that a blood glucose level of less than 60 mg/dL 
is probably too low, as once the blood glucose is at 60 mg/dL the 
individual is likely to already be having symptoms. If the blood 
glucose is below 70 mg/dL, the ACOEM recommended that the ITDM 
individual should not be permitted to drive until all blood glucose 
logs show levels above 70 mg/dL for at least 6 months, with recurrent 
episodes triggering progressive duration of out of service periods.
    FMCSA Response: The Agency agrees with commenters that an ITDM 
individual should not be disqualified for a single blood glucose 
reading that falls below or above a specific limit. The intent of the 
final rule is for an individualized assessment of the stability of the 
individual's insulin regimen and control of his or her ITDM, as 
determined by the TC, and of whether the individual satisfies the 
physical qualification standards, as determined by the certified ME. 
Therefore, FMCSA finds it is appropriate for TCs to set individualized, 
clinically-based parameters for blood glucose limits for ITDM 
individuals rather than establishing a regulatory requirement. TCs 
should look for frequent occurrences of low blood glucose levels and 
determine the cause. For example, frequent low blood glucose levels may 
indicate potential improper diabetes management or other underlying 
medical issues. While the certified ME considers the TC's input on 
whether the ITDM individual maintains a stable insulin regimen and 
proper control of his or her ITDM, it is the certified ME's 
responsibility to consider safety and make a physical qualification 
determination.

L. Severe Hypoglycemic Episodes

    NPRM: FMCSA proposed to allow ITDM individuals to drive CMVs if 
they were free of severe hypoglycemic reactions in the 12 months prior 
to the TC evaluation. A severe hypoglycemic reaction was described as 
one that results in loss of consciousness or seizure, requires the 
assistance of another person, or results in impaired cognitive 
function.
    Comments on Severe Hypoglycemic Episodes: The former MRB members, 
Concentra, the NTSB, and the ACOEM recommended that FMCSA establish 
specific, measurable standards to define a severe hypoglycemic episode.

[[Page 47503]]

Comments included concerns regarding ways of reporting severe 
hypoglycemic episodes and the length of time between episodes. 
Advocates supported the proposed rulemaking, but was concerned that the 
reporting requirement may be too lax and open to potential abuse. SOCO 
recommended a note from the TC stating that the ITDM individual is 
stable on current therapy and is not experiencing hypoglycemic 
episodes. This commenter would require immediate reporting to the 
certified ME and the TC of new or recurring hypoglycemia. Instead of 
the proposed 12 months, a diabetes educator stated that ITDM 
individuals should have to follow-up at least every 6 months with an 
endocrinologist and diabetes educator to make sure that the individuals 
are not having multiple episodes of hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia.
    The former MRB members, Advocates, the ATA, and AAPA-OM agreed that 
FMCSA should remove any ITDM individual who has a severe hypoglycemic 
episode within a year from work for at least 1 year. AAPA-OM stated 
that there should not be recurrent (two or more) severe hypoglycemic 
episodes in the last 5 years. The former MRB members recommended 
periods of longer than 12 months for not allowing ITDM individuals to 
operate CMVs if they had more than two episodes in the last 5 years. 
Concentra commented that the safety risks from acute hypoglycemia are 
too great not to be defined and that FMCSA should review the criteria 
with leading endocrinologists who specialize in diabetes. The NTSB was 
concerned that the NPRM required only that the TC determine that an 
individual has had no severe hypoglycemic episodes and that the 
diabetes is properly managed, rather than providing clinical 
information to demonstrate that the individual meets specified 
criteria.
    2015 MRB Report: The 2015 MRB report defined a severe hypoglycemic 
episode as loss of consciousness, seizures or coma, requiring the 
assistance of others, or needing urgent treatment (glucagon injection 
or intravenous glucose). If an ITDM individual had an episode of severe 
hypoglycemia within the previous 6 months, the MRB recommended that the 
individual be disqualified from operating a CMV for at least 6 months.
    Comments on the MRB's Report on Severe Hypoglycemic Episodes: The 
ADA, the ACOEM, and the University of Utah stated that the recommended 
definition needs to be clarified. For example, the ADA stated that 
urgent treatment is too broad a term and could include self-treatment 
by an individual who recognizes dropping blood glucose. The University 
of Utah commented that a glucose level below 60 mg/dL is the same as 
severe hypoglycemia. This commenter also suggested that there should be 
a requirement for the ITDM individual who experienced an episode to 
make some adjustment to prevent another episode from occurring. H&SW 
recommended that moderate hypoglycemia should be addressed in the 
rulemaking because it can pose a serious concern.
    Some commenters supported the recommendation that an ITDM 
individual who experienced a hypoglycemic episode be disqualified for 6 
months, while others who disagreed with it, including an 
endocrinologist, stated the disqualification was unreasonable and 
discriminatory to ITDM individuals. Commenters who opposed this 
recommendation, again including the endocrinologist, stated that 
episodes that occurred off duty should not count against the ITDM 
individual, as they have no safety implications. They noted that there 
are many reasons for low blood glucose, such as acute illness, 
infections, or medication. Commenters, including OOIDA, stated that 
disqualifying ITDM individuals for 6 months would be financially 
burdensome on these individuals and may even lead to job losses. Rather 
than having FMCSA set a specific timeframe for disqualification, 
commenters, such as the ADA, stated that the TC should determine the 
length of the disqualification period, or determine that the 
disqualification has been lifted as a result of corrective measures or 
lapse in time since the disqualifying event(s). Concentra noted 
generally that the 6-month disqualification period may be difficult for 
the certified ME to track and that it is conceivable the individual 
could be seen by another certified ME who would be unaware of the 
disqualification.
    Some commenters stated that a single episode of severe hypoglycemia 
should not be disqualifying and that the issue needs to be recurring. 
For example, the ADA stated that ``any policy that disqualifies a 
driver on the basis of a single episode of severe hypoglycemia is 
misguided.'' Instead, the ADA maintained, the TC should determine the 
cause of the low blood glucose, whether it was an isolated incident, 
and the likelihood of such an episode recurring. In contrast, the 
University of Utah and the ACOEM stated that the Agency should consider 
progressively longer periods of disqualification based on the frequency 
of these episodes. The University of Utah indicated that there must be 
a limit to the number of severe hypoglycemia episodes.
    FMCSA Response: In the final rule, FMCSA has revised the NPRM and 
2015 MRB definitions of a severe hypoglycemic episode to eliminate 
ambiguity and potential redundancy. FMCSA also has clarified that the 
scope of the definition is severe episodes by eliminating from the 
definitions that the episode results in impaired cognitive function or 
requires urgent treatment. The revised definition provides a more 
objective standard that allows for more consistent determinations 
regarding what constitutes a severe hypoglycemic episode. A severe 
hypoglycemic episode is defined as an episode requiring the assistance 
of others, or resulting in a seizure, coma, or the loss of 
consciousness.
    In view of the potential impact on safety, FMCSA is clarifying in 
the final rule that an ITDM individual certified as physically 
qualified to operate a CMV who experiences a severe hypoglycemic 
episode is prohibited from operating a CMV. The Agency is adding a 
requirement in the rule that such an individual must report the episode 
to and be evaluated by a treating clinician as soon as is reasonably 
practicable.
    The driving prohibition continues until the ITDM individual has 
been evaluated by a TC (who meets the specifications in the rule), and 
a TC determines that the cause of the severe hypoglycemic episode has 
been addressed and that the individual again has a stable insulin 
regimen and properly controlled ITDM. Once a TC completes a new ITDM 
Assessment Form, MCSA-5870, following the episode, the individual may 
resume operating a CMV. The rule requires the ITDM individual to retain 
the form and to provide it to the certified ME at the individual's next 
medical certification examination so the certified ME will be aware of 
the prior episode.
    The Agency agrees with commenters that after an ITDM individual 
experiences a severe hypoglycemic episode the individual must 
demonstrate that the cause of the episode has been addressed and that a 
future episode is not likely to recur. However, the Agency also agrees 
with some commenters that prohibiting an individual from driving for 6 
to 12 months after a severe hypoglycemic episode is onerous for both 
ITDM individuals and employers. In addition, a period of 6 to 12 months 
is not necessary medically to determine stability in most instances 
because severe hypoglycemic episodes are often the result of short-term 
causes. For

[[Page 47504]]

example, in certain circumstances, the cause of an episode might be 
able to be addressed while an individual is in an emergency room or 
other medical facility, and a TC could complete a new ITDM Assessment 
Form, MCSA-5870, at that time. Moreover, the Agency lacks data that 
suggest an ITDM individual who has experienced a severe hypoglycemic 
episode is likely to experience another episode within any specific 
timeframe, and commenters, as well as the MRB, have not provided any 
relevant data.
    Accordingly, the final rule does not establish a specific timeframe 
that an ITDM individual is prohibited from operating a CMV following a 
severe hypoglycemic episode. Rather, the rule defers to a TC to make an 
individualized assessment as to when the cause of the episode has been 
addressed and the individual again has a stable insulin regimen and 
properly controlled ITDM. A TC is in a good position to obtain and take 
in to account an ITDM individual's medical history. Therefore, a TC is 
also in a good position to determine and treat the cause of a severe 
hypoglycemic episode, assess the response to treatment, determine when 
the cause has been addressed, and, then, complete an ITDM Assessment 
Form, MCSA-5870.
    FMCSA finds that any regulatory requirement that specifies a 
timeframe that an ITDM individual is prohibited from operating a CMV is 
not consistent with the intent of this rule to provide for 
individualized assessment. The individualized approach the Agency has 
adopted appropriately balances the safety of the motoring public with 
encouraging ITDM individuals to seek proper treatment and to comply 
with the rule's requirements.
    The Agency emphasizes that a TC is not determining whether the ITDM 
individual is qualified to operate a CMV following a severe 
hypoglycemic episode. Rather, a TC's role continues to be limited to 
determining whether the ITDM individual has a stable insulin regimen 
and properly controlled ITDM.
    FMCSA has considered the comments to the effect that severe 
hypoglycemic episodes that occur when an ITDM individual is off duty 
have no effect on safety. The Agency has revised the definition to 
clarify that the episodes of hypoglycemia that trigger the prohibition 
from operating a CMV and the reporting requirement are only those that 
are severe. FMCSA has concluded that it is in the interest of safety to 
require that ITDM individuals seek treatment after having experienced 
any severe hypoglycemic episode to ensure that the cause of the episode 
has been addressed.
    FMCSA also declines to establish by regulation that any particular 
number of severe hypoglycemic episodes automatically disqualifies an 
ITDM individual from operating a CMV. Such a requirement would be 
contrary to the individualized assessment approach adopted in this 
rule. Instead, TCs will consider prior episodes of severe hypoglycemic 
episodes in determining whether an individual has a stable insulin 
regimen and properly controlled ITDM. Additionally, certified MEs will 
be aware of prior episodes via the ITDM Assessment Form, MCSA-5870, 
provided at any subsequent medical qualification examination.
    FMCSA notes that the existing requirement that a new medical 
examination and certification must be obtained when an individual has a 
physical or mental injury or disease that impairs the individual's 
ability to perform his or her normal duties \17\ could, depending on 
the circumstances, be applicable to the ITDM individual who experiences 
a severe hypoglycemic episode. Such ITDM individuals would be subject 
to a new evaluation by the TC, including completion of a new ITDM 
Assessment Form, MCSA-5870, and subsequent medical examination by the 
certified ME.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \17\ Now recodified without change in 49 CFR 391.45(f) by this 
final rule.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    FMCSA declines to define or establish by regulation a moderate 
hypoglycemic episode as a disqualifying event. FMCSA expects the TC to 
evaluate a moderate hypoglycemic episode and any other diabetic 
complications in determining whether the individual maintains a stable 
insulin regimen and proper control of his or her ITDM.
    The Agency developed the ITDM Assessment Form, MCSA-5870, that 
gathers information about an individual's diabetes and addresses many 
of the commenters' concerns. The Agency has concluded, through the 
completion of the form and evaluation of available subjective and 
objective clinical data, such as interviewing the individual and 
reviewing blood glucose records for fluctuations over time, that the TC 
is equipped to provide an appropriate assessment for the certified ME 
to review.

M. Hypoglycemia Unawareness

    NPRM: The proposed rule did not address hypoglycemic events 
occurring without prior warning, also known as hypoglycemia 
unawareness.
    Comments on Hypoglycemia Unawareness and Hypoglycemia Unawareness 
Training: The former MRB members commented that, to be qualified to 
drive, the ITDM individual should not experience hypoglycemia 
unawareness. The ATA added that the certified ME or TC should evaluate 
whether the individual has experienced any episodes of hypoglycemia 
unawareness. In terms of hypoglycemia awareness training, several 
commenters recommended that FMCSA require this training as a part of 
the diabetes qualification process to prevent an ITDM individual from 
experiencing a hypoglycemic episode while operating a CMV. Commenters 
who supported this requirement include Advocates, H&SW, the ACOEM, and 
TFAC. Comments on this topic included how often ITDM individuals should 
attend training sessions and how they should provide documentation to 
prove their attendance.
    2015 MRB Report: The MRB recommended in its report that an ITDM 
individual who had hypoglycemia unawareness within the previous 6 
months be disqualified from operating a CMV for at least 6 months.
    Comments on the MRB's Report on Hypoglycemia Unawareness: 
Commenters generally agreed that impaired awareness of hypoglycemia is 
incompatible with driving and asked FMCSA to clarify the definition of 
hypoglycemia unawareness. For example, an MD suggested defining 
hypoglycemia unawareness as hypoglycemia under 50 ml/dL appearing in 
the absence of warning symptoms. The MD noted that symptoms of 
hypoglycemia in many well-controlled ITDM individuals without 
hypoglycemia unawareness do not arise until the glucose level is under 
50, so clinicians may mistakenly label individuals as having 
hypoglycemia unawareness. The MD agreed, however, that an episode of 
hypoglycemia unawareness, as he defined it, should result in 
disqualification for 6 months.
    On the other hand, most commenters indicated that a 6-month 
disqualification period is too long. An endocrinologist stated that the 
period of 6 months is arbitrary, and, in her opinion, unreasonable and 
discriminatory. Comments included the view that a single episode of 
hypoglycemia unawareness should not be disqualifying, and that such 
episodes need to be recurring or ongoing. The ADA and an 
endocrinologist indicated that ITDM individuals should be allowed to 
return to driving once the appropriate measures to avoid hypoglycemia 
and create awareness have been established.

[[Page 47505]]

    While some commenters indicated that an ITDM individual should be 
reinstated once the hypoglycemic unawareness issue is resolved, the 
University of Utah stated that there should be a minimum, perhaps 6 
months, of blood glucose logs and symptom reviews to ascertain that the 
individual had regained awareness of hypoglycemia. The ACOEM stated 
that if an ITDM individual with hypoglycemia unawareness is later able 
to demonstrate hypoglycemia awareness and is certified, but 
hypoglycemia unawareness recurs, that individual should be permanently 
disqualified. The ACOEM commented further that, if an ITDM individual 
is not experiencing awareness of a blood glucose level below 60 mg/dL, 
the individual should be permanently barred from operating a CMV.
    FMCSA Response: FMCSA has determined that hypoglycemia unawareness 
on its own should not be considered for medical qualification. 
Hypoglycemia unawareness would be considered by the TC in determining 
whether the individual has a stable insulin regimen and proper control 
of his or her ITDM. Due to the individualized effect of occurrences of 
hypoglycemia unawareness, the assessment, evaluation, and treatment for 
this condition should be a component of the TC's individualized 
management for a stable insulin regimen and proper control of the ITDM 
individual's diabetes. To assist the TC in educating ITDM individuals 
regarding hypoglycemic unawareness, FMCSA is planning to develop 
education and outreach information to promote recognition of 
hypoglycemia unawareness.

N. Blood Glucose Self-Monitoring

    NPRM: During the period of medical certification, the NPRM required 
the ITDM individual to monitor and maintain blood glucose records as 
determined by the TC. The ITDM individual would submit those records to 
the TC at the time of evaluation. The NPRM did not propose a minimum 
insulin use period for new or established ITDM individuals to be 
eligible for medical certification.
    Comments on Blood Glucose Self-Monitoring: Some commenters, 
including a retired FAA safety inspector, the former MRB members, an 
RN, the ACOEM, and H&SW, recommended a specific schedule for blood 
glucose monitoring. Commenters generally suggested testing prior to 
driving and then every 4 to 6 hours while driving. The retired FAA 
safety inspector recommended the most frequent monitoring, with testing 
1 hour before driving and at least every 2 hours while driving.
    The ACOEM recommended that a log be required consisting of at least 
2 weeks of testing four times per day (before meals and at bedtime). It 
would require the blood glucose log to be downloaded and printed 
directly from the glucometer--no typed or handwritten logs--and to have 
a time stamp for each blood glucose value.
    Concentra stated that FMCSA should discuss the criteria for self-
monitoring blood glucose while driving. A diabetes educator stated that 
ITDM individuals should follow up at least every 6 months with an 
endocrinologist who would download their blood glucose readings. SOCO 
also recommended that a glucose log be maintained for review by the 
treating doctor.
    Advocates was concerned about the lack of definitions for 
``appropriate ranges'' and ``management.'' To support and document the 
conclusions of the TC, Advocates recommended that the Agency require 
ITDM individuals to submit blood glucose records for a specified time 
prior to the medical evaluation. Advocates indicated that leaving the 
definition of the appropriate level of reporting to the TC could 
encourage TC shopping.
    The IBT and Concentra asked for clarification on how long insulin 
must be used before an ITDM individual can be certified to drive. The 
AAPA-OM commented that an ITDM individual must be on insulin for at 
least 2 years prior to certification. The ACOEM wrote that FMCSA should 
require a new insulin user to demonstrate stability, control, and lack 
of hypoglycemia over a period of time before being medically cleared 
for driving; this monitoring cycle could be more frequent at the 
discretion of the TC and the certified ME. The ACOEM commented that the 
Law Enforcement Officer Medical Guideline requires 3 months of stable 
insulin regimen for individuals on insulin for treatment of type 2 
diabetes mellitus, and 6 months for individuals on insulin for 
treatment of type 1 diabetes mellitus. If the individual is on an 
insulin pump, the ACOEM would require the TC to send the certified ME a 
summary report on the use of the pump.
    2015 MRB Report: The MRB report recommended that the suggested ITDM 
form request information on how many times per day the individual is 
testing blood glucose. It also suggested that ITDM individuals test 
blood glucose before driving and every 4 hours while driving.
    The MRB recommended that the form request information about whether 
an individual on insulin with type 2 diabetes has been on a stable 
medication regimen for 3 months prior to evaluation by the TC. For 
individuals who have been newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, the 
minimum period of insulin use to establish medication regimen stability 
would be not less than 2 months. For individuals who have type 2 
diabetes and are converting to insulin use, the minimum period of 
insulin use to establish medication regimen stability would be not less 
than 1 month.
    The MRB specified that all ITDM individuals must have documentation 
of ongoing self-monitoring of blood glucose; however, established 
insulin users must have records covering a minimum of the most recent 3 
months. This monitoring must be done using a finger stick glucose meter 
that stores every reading and records date and time of the readings, 
which the user can download. Handwritten blood glucose records would 
not be acceptable. The MRB recommended that an ITDM individual be 
disqualified for an inadequate record of self-monitoring blood glucose, 
``i.e., unreliable or absent capillary blood glucose measurements.'' 
This disqualification would last until the individual could demonstrate 
adequate evidence of glucose records, and a minimum of 1 month.
    Comments on the MRB's Report on Blood Glucose Self-Monitoring: The 
University of Utah commented that the wording ``[i]nadequate record of 
self-monitoring of blood glucose'' was ``insufficiently clear.'' It 
recommended that it be specified how many readings can be missing over 
what period. It suggested considering blood glucose self-monitoring 
five times per day on days spent driving and four times per day on 
other days. The ACOEM asked what would be defined as adequate self-
monitoring, which may differ based on the treatment. If left to the 
examiner to determine, the ACOEM commented that the examiner must be 
someone who can evaluate and treat individuals who use insulin. The 
ACOEM asked if the monitoring criteria would mirror the exemption 
program--prior to driving and every 4 hours while driving.
    The ADA agreed with the importance of reviewing blood glucose 
records as part of an individualized assessment of an ITDM individual. 
It was concerned that the adequacy of records was referenced, but left 
undefined. The ADA stated that the adequacy of the records should be 
determined only by the TC. The ADA stated that it is inappropriate for 
the certified ME or anyone else to determine how often an ITDM

[[Page 47506]]

individual should be testing blood glucose.
    The ADA was the only commenter that discussed the length of time an 
ITDM individual should be on insulin before being eligible to be 
medically certified. It noted the discrepancy between requiring an 
individual with type 2 diabetes treated with insulin to be on a stable 
medication regimen for 3 months, and the recommendation that an 
individual with type 2 diabetes converting to insulin use be using 
insulin for not less than 1 month. The ADA commented that these two 
standards should be the same and follow the criteria of the existing 
exemption program, which requires that an individual with type 2 
diabetes use insulin for 1 month prior to eligibility for medical 
certification.
    In terms of disqualification for inadequate records, the ADA stated 
that an ITDM individual should never be disqualified on the assumption 
that the individual's records of blood glucose monitoring are 
inadequate. An individual stated that the rule should allow for 
extenuating circumstances beyond the ITDM individual's control, such as 
difficulties with the blood glucose monitor. In such circumstances, the 
commenter felt it would be unfair to penalize the individual.
    Some commenters wanted the rule to do more to increase the 
likelihood that an ITDM individual would keep blood glucose records. 
The University of Utah wanted a mechanism in the rule to assure ongoing 
compliance with blood glucose monitoring requirements. Concentra was 
concerned that an ITDM individual who was certified and became non-
compliant would be able to continue to drive without FMCSA's knowledge. 
It stated that there should be a mechanism in place to require the TC 
to notify FMCSA if the individual becomes non-compliant or discharges 
the TC. H&SW wrote that the ITDM individual has ``additional impetus to 
keep blood glucose logs when a regulation requires it.'' A physician 
recommended that patients who have type 1 diabetes mellitus for over 5 
years use continuous glucose sensors to minimize their risk of driving 
while hypoglycemic to ensure safety for the others on the road.
    FMCSA Response: FMCSA agrees with the 2015 MRB recommendations and 
other commenters that a requirement for a period of blood glucose self-
monitoring records should be included in the final rule. The final rule 
requires that all ITDM individuals must provide at least the preceding 
3 months of blood glucose self-monitoring records while being treated 
with insulin to the TC to be eligible for up to the maximum 12-month 
MEC, MCSA-5876. If an individual does not provide the 3 months of 
records, the certified ME has discretion to grant the individual up to 
but not more than a 3-month MEC, MCSA-5876, to allow time for the 
individual to collect the necessary records. Once the individual has 3 
months of blood glucose self-monitoring records, the individual is 
treated the same as an ITDM individual with 3 months of records. The 
individual must first go to the TC for evaluation and then to the 
certified ME, who must exercise independent medical judgment, to 
determine if the individual is eligible for up to the maximum 12-month 
MEC, MCSA-5876.
    FMCSA has included the 3-month requirement for blood glucose self-
monitoring records while being treated with insulin for all ITDM 
individuals. FMCSA has determined that there is no basis to 
differentiate blood glucose self-monitoring record requirements based 
on whether individuals have been newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes 
or have type 2 diabetes and are converting to insulin use because both 
categories are beginning the use of insulin.
    The Agency is requiring 3 months of records because this timeframe 
provides current blood glucose self-monitoring records to the TC, and 
is generally consistent with medical practice standards for follow-up 
visits for ITDM individuals. The Agency finds that this is a balanced 
approach for ITDM individuals that allows time to demonstrate a stable 
insulin regimen and proper control of ITDM, while providing enough 
information for the certified ME to determine whether the individual 
can safely operate a CMV.
    The final rule does not establish the specific frequency of blood 
glucose monitoring. FMCSA finds that any regulatory requirement that 
specifies monitoring frequency does not support the intent of the rule 
for individualized assessment. Rather, the rule provides that ITDM 
individuals must self-monitor blood glucose in accordance with the 
specific treatment plan prescribed by the TC.
    The TC is most familiar with the ITDM individual's medical history. 
As such, the TC is in the best position to determine the specific blood 
glucose monitoring plan, including monitoring requirements while 
driving a CMV, and whether the submitted blood glucose self-monitoring 
records are consistent with the plan. The Agency finds that this rule 
encourages the maintenance of blood glucose records in a manner that is 
focused on good monitoring practices, as well as maintaining proper 
control of the individual's diabetes and the overall health of the 
individual. Because daily testing and recording of results are routine 
aspects of managing ITDM, the rule's requirements do not impose any 
additional burden on ITDM individuals.
    ITDM individuals must self-monitor blood glucose in accordance with 
the specific treatment plan prescribed by the TC. They must maintain 
blood glucose records measured with an electronic glucometer that 
stores all readings, that records the date and time of readings, and 
from which data can be electronically downloaded. A printout of the 
electronic blood glucose records or the glucometer must be provided to 
the TC at the time of any evaluation. Handwritten blood glucose records 
are not acceptable. As long as the ITDM individual can satisfy the 
foregoing requirements, the self-monitoring may be performed by finger 
stick or continuous glucose sensor.

O. Requirement To Carry Readily-Absorbable Glucose

    NPRM: In the NPRM, FMCSA did not propose that ITDM individuals must 
carry readily-absorbable glucose, which is required under the existing 
exemption program.
    Comments on the Requirement to Carry Readily-Absorbable Glucose: 
H&SW, Concentra, and a certified ME/physician commented that ITDM 
individuals should have readily-absorbable glucose within reach while 
driving to mitigate the risk of severe symptoms developing from a 
hypoglycemic episode. TFAC, on the other hand, stated that the 
requirement to carry readily-absorbable glucose is overly burdensome 
and would not improve safety.
    2015 MRB Report: The 2015 MRB report did not address carrying 
readily-absorbable glucose. No comments were received concerning the 
MRB report in this regard.
    FMCSA Response: The final rule does not require that ITDM 
individuals carry a readily-absorbable form of glucose. FMCSA finds 
that treatment for potential hypoglycemia is more appropriately a 
component of diabetes management as instructed by the TC rather than a 
mandate by a regulatory agency.

P. Diabetic Complications and Target Organ Damage

    NPRM: The NPRM proposed that ITDM individuals must meet the 
physical qualification standards in Sec.  391.41 and be free of 
complications that might impair their ability to operate a CMV.

[[Page 47507]]

    Comments on Diabetic Complications and Target Organ Damage: Several 
commenters, including SOCO, the ATA, the NTSB, and the ACOEM, indicated 
that FMCSA should require evaluation of ITDM individuals to make sure 
that they do not show signs of diabetic complications or target organ 
damage. Commenters wanted ITDM individuals to be evaluated for 
complications such as diabetic neuropathy, paresthesia, and 
proprioception. Commenters also stated that ITDM individuals' kidney 
function should be evaluated by measuring creatinine. The ACOEM 
provided that an ITDM individual with kidney function worse that stage 
3 should not be qualified. If the ITDM individual had stage 2 kidney 
function, the individual should be more closely monitored.
    The ACOEM added that ITDM individuals have the same cardiovascular 
risk as someone with established coronary artery disease; thus, 
cardiovascular risk factors should be evaluated. The ACOEM recommended 
that ITDM individuals who meet certain Cardiovascular Advisory Panel 
Guidelines should be subject to the same medical qualifying criteria as 
those individuals with known coronary heart disease, including an 
exercise stress test. If there is evidence of ischemia, or the left 
ventricular ejection fraction is less than 40 percent, then the 
individual would be deemed ineligible for certification. SOCO also 
commented that FMCSA should require evaluation and documentation of the 
presence of coronary atherosclerosis and peripheral or cerebral 
vascular disease. Concentra commented that the safety risks from long-
term co-morbidities are too great not to be defined and that FMCSA 
should review the criteria with leading endocrinologists who specialize 
in diabetes. The NTSB wrote that many ITDM complications cannot be 
identified by a routine physical examination.
    2015 MRB Report: The MRB report recommended that, if there were 
signs of target organ damage, as evidenced by peripheral neuropathy, 
diabetic nephropathy, or cardiovascular disease, with the risk of 
impairing the ability to operate a CMV safely, an ITDM individual would 
be disqualified until the problem was resolved by treatment, if 
possible.
    Comments on the MRB's Report for Diabetic Complications and Target 
Organ Damage: The ACOEM and the ADA supported the MRB recommendation, 
but the ACOEM added that there should not be a risk of the target organ 
damage recurring. An individual commented that the only factor should 
be whether the complication impairs the individual's ability to safely 
operate a CMV. An MD commented that the language ``signs of target 
organ damage'' is not specific and may not be an appropriate 
disqualifier. The MD recommended that the query should be whether 
symptomatic target organ damage is present that could render an ITDM 
individual unsafe to operate a CMV. If so, the ITDM individual should 
be disqualified until the matter is resolved by treatment.
    The University of Utah stated that the phrase ``[d]isqualification 
until resolved by treatment, if possible'' is unclear. It noted that 
one could not resolve a heart attack by treatment and generally it is 
impossible to completely resolve neuropathy. This commenter recommended 
that those with four or more multiple conditions should be precluded 
from driving. For nephropathy, the prior Renal Medical Expert Panel and 
MRB recommendations should be applied, including staging of the 
nephropathy.
    Concentra asked for specific direction regarding the diagnostic 
tests, including their frequency, that should be used to evaluate 
cardiovascular disease and diabetic nephropathy in ITDM individuals. It 
also asked that FMCSA clearly define the severity of diabetic 
nephropathy that would warrant disqualification.
    FMCSA Response: In the final rule, the Agency continues to require 
that an ITDM individual must meet the physical qualification standards 
in Sec.  391.41, have an exemption unrelated to diabetes, or have a 
Skill Performance Evaluation Certificate, if required. With the 
exception of diabetic retinopathy, the Agency declines to establish 
specific regulatory requirements pertaining to complications that may 
arise from diabetes.
    The TC for the ITDM individual is best suited to provide 
information regarding diabetes complications. Moreover, the ITDM 
Assessment Form, MCSA-5870, adopted in this rule includes specific 
questions for the TC to identify diabetes complications and possible 
target organ damage. In making the final medical certification 
decision, the certified ME will consider the TC's information provided 
on the form in determining whether the individual meets the physical 
qualification standards to safely operate a CMV. FMCSA notes that the 
target organ complications associated with diabetes can result from any 
number of other medical conditions that certified MEs evaluate. 
Therefore, certified MEs should be familiar with the medical 
certification process involving such conditions.
    FMCSA agrees with the MRB that an individual who has a complication 
from diabetes that interferes with safely operating a CMV should not be 
medically qualified to operate a CMV. The Agency finds, however, that 
diabetes complications should not automatically preclude medical 
certification. Such determinations should be based on an individualized 
assessment and the severity of symptoms. A complication becomes a 
disqualifying factor only if it impairs the ability to operate a CMV 
safely. As an alternative to disqualification, a certified ME may 
determine that an ITDM individual is unqualified until treatment is 
received and appropriate intervention mitigates or addresses the 
problem.

Q. Motor Carrier Responsibility To Enforce the ITDM Standard

    NPRM: FMCSA did not propose any new requirements for motor carriers 
to enforce the ITDM physical qualification standard.
    Comments on Motor Carrier Responsibility to Enforce the ITDM 
Standard: The ATA stated that no responsibility for monitoring and 
submitting compliance information should fall on the motor carrier; 
instead, it wrote this responsibility most appropriately resides with 
the certified MEs, TCs, and the ITDM individuals. However, the ATA did 
want motor carriers to retain access to the health information 
available on the ``medical long form'' and other sources to monitor 
compliance with Sec.  392.3. ABA stated that passenger carriers should 
not be ``placed at the risk of assessing the medical condition of a 
driver or whether the driver is vigilant in maintaining [his or her] 
condition.''
    2015 MRB Report: The MRB did not address the issue of motor 
carriers enforcing the ITDM standard. No comments were received 
concerning the MRB report in this regard.
    FMCSA Response: The final rule revises the physical qualification 
standard for ITDM individuals, but does not create any new or 
additional monitoring or compliance requirements for motor carriers 
beyond those already set out in general terms in the FMCSRs. See 49 CFR 
390.11, 391.11(a), and 391.41(a). The provisions of Sec.  392.3 relate 
only to determining whether to allow an ill or fatigued individual to 
operate a CMV. The rule does not require access to any medical records, 
such as an individual's Medical Examination Report Form, MCSA-5875, to 
make that determination.

[[Page 47508]]

R. ITDM Individuals Operating CMVs Transporting Passengers or Hazardous 
Materials

    NPRM: FMCSA did not propose to restrict ITDM individuals from being 
medically qualified to operate CMVs carrying passengers or hazardous 
materials but indicated that the MRB recommended in 2007 that ITDM 
individuals be restricted from passenger and hazardous materials 
transportation. The Agency requested public comment on this issue.
    Comments on ITDM Individuals Operating CMVs Transporting Passengers 
or Hazardous Materials: The ADA, the IBT, OOIDA, and the Illinois 
Office of the Secretary of State supported allowing ITDM individuals to 
continue to operate CMVs carrying passengers or hazardous materials. 
These commenters agreed with FMCSA that the risk posed by an individual 
with stable, well-controlled ITDM is very low in general and that there 
is no medical evidence to support prohibiting ITDM individuals from 
certain operations. The ADA stated that prohibiting individuals from 
certain types of operations based on their diagnosis or use of insulin 
alone is antithetical to the basic premise of individual assessment 
that Congress required in SAFETEA-LU. OOIDA added that individuals who 
transport hazardous materials are frequently some of the most 
experienced and safest operators on our nation's highways and their 
highway safety performance should be the focus, not an arbitrary 
condition-based decision.
    Commenters that expressed concern about the Agency not restricting 
ITDM individuals from transporting passengers or hazardous materials 
include the NTSB, United Motorcoach Association (UMA), ABA, Advocates, 
and the former MRB members. UMA and ABA, however, supported continuing 
the current exemption program for drivers transporting passengers.
    The NTSB and ABA questioned relying on the ADA study that FMCSA 
cited in the NPRM \18\ to support the Agency's conclusions. For 
example, the NTSB stated that the ADA report did not address the risks 
to public safety of ITDM individuals who operate CMVs. The NTSB noted 
that an individual's risk of becoming impaired from stable, well-
controlled ITDM may not be higher among individuals who operate CMVs, 
but the potential consequences of such an event are significantly 
greater.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \18\ ADA, ``Diabetes and Driving,'' Diabetes Care, vol. 35, 
suppl. 1, Jan. 2012, p. S81, which is available in the docket for 
this rule.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Advocates stated that research has shown individuals with diabetes 
in the United States have an increased crash risk, as do individuals 
treated with insulin. Advocates recommended that the Agency restrict 
ITDM individuals from transporting passengers or hazardous materials 
for a specified amount of time until they have driven freight under the 
conditions of the proposed regulations and have a safe driving record.
    ABA commented that the 2007 MRB recommendation recognized that 
drivers of passenger vehicles are not conducting the same operations as 
cargo carrying CMV drivers, and required a higher medical standard. ABA 
noted that, although the Agency stated it is impermissible under the 
law to adopt higher physical standards for ITDM individuals, the law 
provides for exceptions, as demonstrated by the current exemption 
process.
    UMA noted that over-the-road bus operations may not be conducive to 
maintaining proper blood glucose levels because schedules often vary 
and are not flexible, testing and snacking opportunities are limited, 
and passengers may become alarmed when observing a driver injecting 
insulin or monitoring blood glucose. UMA recommended that FMCSA study 
crash rates for ITDM individuals operating CMVs under the NPRM for at 
least 5 years before considering whether to allow ITDM individuals to 
obtain a passenger endorsement.
    2015 MRB Report: The 2015 MRB report did not mention the 2007 MRB 
recommendation proposing to restrict ITDM individuals from operating 
CMVs transporting passengers or hazardous materials cited in the NPRM.
    Comment on the MRB's Report on ITDM Individuals Operating CMVs 
Transporting Passengers or Hazardous Materials: Advocates noted the 
omission of the 2007 recommended restriction from the 2015 MRB report. 
It stated that the Agency is obliged to provide a full and complete 
discussion of the 2007 MRB recommendation, which it characterized as an 
important safety precaution. Advocates wrote that the revision of the 
medical requirements for ITDM individuals should ensure that they do 
not impose any greater risk of crash involvement than non-ITDM 
individuals operating CMVs that transport either passengers or 
hazardous materials.
    FMCSA Response: The Agency continues to conclude that individuals 
who maintain a stable insulin regimen and proper control of their ITDM 
can operate any category of CMV safely. No new information or data was 
provided by commenters that persuades the Agency to depart from its 
conclusion. Under section 4129 of SAFETEA-LU, FMCSA may not hold ITDM 
individuals to a higher standard of physical qualification than other 
individuals, except to the extent that limited operating, monitoring, 
and medical requirements are deemed medically necessary under 
regulations. The Agency finds that there is no available evidence to 
support holding ITDM individuals to a higher standard in connection 
with transporting passengers or hazardous materials. FMCSA addresses 
the issue of ITDM individuals' ability to safely operate CMVs in a 
following section.

S. ITDM Individuals With Licenses Issued in Canada or Mexico

    NPRM: The NPRM stated that ITDM individuals with licenses issued in 
Canada or Mexico would not be allowed to operate CMVs in the United 
States.
    Comments on Not Allowing ITDM Individuals with Licenses Issued in 
Canada or Mexico to Operate CMVs in the United States: FMCSA received 
two comments addressing this issue. The IBT commented that it supports 
continuing the current policy applicable to ITDM individuals domiciled 
in Canada and Mexico. A Canadian ITDM individual noted that Canada 
requires commercial operators to have a medical examination, monitor 
HbA1C results, and have a retinopathy examination done annually. 
Because the United States recognizes Canadian medical evaluations, this 
commenter suggested that FMCSA allow ITDM individuals with licenses 
issued by Canada to drive in the United States.
    2015 MRB Report: The MRB did not discuss certifying ITDM 
individuals from Canada or Mexico and no comments were received 
concerning the MRB report in this regard.
    FMCSA Response: FMCSA retains its position that ITDM individuals 
with licenses issued in Canada or Mexico are prohibited from operating 
CMVs in the United States. Individuals from Canada with a license 
issued in conformity with the Canadian National Safety Code and from 
Mexico with a Licencia Federal de Conductor (LFC) generally may operate 
CMVs in the United States (49 CFR 383.23(b) n.1 and 391.41(a)(1)(i)). 
Nonetheless, under the terms of the 1998 reciprocity agreement with 
Canada, a Canadian ITDM individual is not authorized to operate a CMV 
in the United States. Mexico does not issue an LFC to any ITDM 
individual. FMCSA cannot change its current position

[[Page 47509]]

unless the underlying reciprocity agreement with Canada is amended or 
Mexico changes its policy to allow ITDM individuals to be issued LFCs.

T. The Grandfather Provision for Insulin-Treated Diabetes

    NPRM: From 1993 until 1994, ITDM individuals could apply to the 
FHWA for a waiver that allowed them to drive a CMV in interstate 
commerce. In 1994, a Federal court decision invalidated the waiver 
program, but individuals holding waivers were allowed to continue to 
drive CMVs under the grandfather provision in Sec.  391.64(a). In the 
NPRM, FMCSA stated that the provisions in Sec.  391.64 might be 
redundant if the proposed rule was adopted, and asked if removing Sec.  
391.64 would affect adversely any individual still operating a CMV 
under that rule.
    Comments on Removing the Grandfather Provision for Insulin-Treated 
Diabetes: A physician/certified ME concurred with FMCSA that Sec.  
391.64 would be redundant if the proposed rule was adopted. He stated 
that, with the termination of the diabetes exemption program, Sec.  
391.64 should be eliminated. This commenter did not see how individuals 
certified under Sec.  391.64 would be affected adversely by eliminating 
the grandfather provision.
    The Illinois Office of the Secretary of State stated that removing 
the grandfather provision would not adversely affect individuals 
currently operating CMVs under Sec.  391.64. This commenter noted that 
there are currently 10 operators in Illinois who are grandfathered 
under Sec.  391.64. The commenter wrote that holding these individuals 
to the approach proposed in the NPRM would not impact their safety or 
the safety of other motorists adversely.
    2015 MRB Report: The 2015 MRB report did not discuss the 
grandfather provision and no comments were received concerning the MRB 
report in this regard.
    FMCSA Response: In the final rule, FMCSA eliminates the diabetes 
grandfather provision in Sec.  391.64(a). FMCSA agrees with the 
commenter that the grandfather provision is redundant of several 
requirements in new Sec.  391.46. Individuals currently certified under 
Sec.  391.64 are either already able to meet the requirements of this 
rule or could meet a less restrictive requirement. FMCSA finds that 
discontinuing the grandfather provision has no adverse impact on the 
less than 100 currently grandfathered individuals or on motor carriers. 
FMCSA provided a year to transition to the new process to avoid any 
possible hardships for individuals who would need to be certified just 
after the rule becomes effective. FMCSA is directly contacting the 
currently grandfathered individuals to further explain the transition 
process.
    The diabetes grandfather provision in Sec.  391.64(a) will sunset 
and will be removed 1 year after the effective date of this final rule. 
During that year, individuals certified under the grandfather provision 
may choose to be certified under Sec.  391.64(a) or this final rule. 
Within 1 year after the effective date, however, all individuals 
previously certified under Sec.  391.64(a) must comply with the 
provisions outlined in Sec. Sec.  391.41, 391.45, and 391.46 in the 
final rule. As such, any individual who chooses to be certified under 
Sec.  391.64(a) must be certified again under this final rule within a 
year after the effective date, which would mean that the individual 
would have to undergo a second evaluation by a TC and a medical 
qualification examination. FMCSA anticipates that it will be 
advantageous for individuals certified previously under Sec.  391.64(a) 
to transition to certification under this rule as soon as possible to 
avoid duplicative examination costs and to potentially reduce costs by 
being evaluated by a TC, rather than by an endocrinologist. In any 
event, any waiver and current MEC, MCSA-5876, issued pursuant to Sec.  
391.64(a) will automatically become void 1 year after the effective 
date of the final rule.

U. Safety of ITDM Individuals

    NPRM: The NPRM proposed to permit individuals with stable, well-
controlled ITDM to be medically qualified to operate CMVs and to 
eliminate the diabetes exemption program. The Agency determined that 
``[t]he risk posed by a driver with stable, well-controlled ITDM is 
very low in general'' (80 FR 25265). In making this determination, the 
Agency concurred with a finding of the ADA in its 2012 position 
statement titled ``Diabetes and Driving'' that ``[M]ost people with 
diabetes safely operate motor vehicles without creating any meaningful 
risk of injury to themselves or others.'' \19\ Id.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \19\ ADA, ``Diabetes and Driving,'' Diabetes Care, vol. 35, 
supp1. 1, Jan. 2012 p. S81, which is available in the docket for 
this rulemaking.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Comments on the Safety of ITDM Individuals: Many commenters agreed 
specifically that ITDM individuals whose condition is stable and well 
controlled do not pose an unreasonable safety risk. For example, the 
National School Transportation Association agreed with this conclusion 
and expressed support for the proposed rule as it applies to CMV 
operators driving school buses. Additionally, the Transportation 
Division of the Sheet Metal, Air, Rail Transportation Union pointed out 
data in the Preliminary RIA published with the NPRM showed that the 
1,730 drivers in the exemption program performed much better than the 
general CMV population in terms of crash rates. Several commenters 
noted that the rulemaking alleviates the burden of the exemption 
process, while maintaining safety. OOIDA concurred that the proposed 
rule would continue to ensure safe operation of CMVs.
    Several commenters, including some medical professionals, the 
ACOEM, ABA, and the NTSB, stated that changing the exemption program 
would decrease safety. TFAC supported removing the exemption program 
but stated that the proposed rule went too far in removing requirements 
and a compromise group of requirements would be appropriate. H&SW also 
concurred with the proposal to eliminate the diabetes exemption 
program, but expressed that it is in the best interest of road safety 
to maintain some of the important provisions of the exemption program. 
Advocates acknowledged recent advances in medical information regarding 
ITDM and expressed support for a change to the medical standards to 
permit ITDM individuals to operate CMVs. Advocates maintains, however, 
that the requirements for ITDM individuals should incorporate the 
recommendations of the 2007 MRB that were cited in the NPRM.
    The former MRB members disputed FMCSA's conclusions on the safety 
of ITDM individuals. They cited five studies \20\ and FMCSA's 2006 
Diabetes Evidence Report \21\ that they stated show drivers with 
diabetes have about a 20 percent increased risk of crash and drivers 
taking insulin have a 40 to 130 percent increased risk of crash. When 
parsing the data down to insulin use and studies based in the United 
States, the former MRB members stated that FMCSA's 2010 Evidence Report 
Update \22\ found that the risk of crash is

[[Page 47510]]

likely doubled, even though the result currently lacks statistical 
significance. They stated that a study shows that efforts to keep HbA1C 
below 7 percent ``is a substantial concern for further increasing crash 
risk.'' \23\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \20\ Songer TJ, Lave LB, LaPorte RE. Risk Anal. 1993 Jun; 13(3): 
319-26. Songer TJ, Dorsey RR. Annu Proc Assoc Adv Automot Med. 2006; 
50: 335-351. Redelmeier DA, Kenshole AB, Ray JG. PLoS Med. 2009 Dec; 
6(12): e1000192. Kilpatrick ES, Rigby AS, Warren RE, Atkin SL. 
Diabet Med. 2013 May; 30(5): 616-9. Orriols L, et al. Accid Anal 
Prev. 2014 Oct; 71: 137-43.
    \21\ ``Evidence Report: Diabetes and Commercial Motor Vehicle 
Drive Safety,'' Sept. 8, 2006, which is available in the docket for 
this rulemaking.
    \22\ ``Evidence Report: 2010 Update: Diabetes and Commercial 
Motor Vehicle Driver Safety,'' May 27, 2011, which is available in 
the docket for this rulemaking.
    \23\ Kilpatrick ES, Rigby AS, Warren RE, Atkin SL. Diabet Med. 
2013 May; 30(5): 616-9.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The former MRB members asserted that an implied purpose of 
eliminating the diabetes exemption program is to increase the number of 
ITDM individuals operating CMVs. The former MRB members indicated that 
it is inappropriate to infer from the diabetes waiver program, the 
diabetes exemption program, and The Large Truck Causation Study what 
would happen to a larger pool of ITDM individuals.
    The NTSB stated that the Agency's justification for the proposed 
rule is flawed because the ADA position statement does not address the 
risks to public safety of CMV drivers with ITDM. H&SW also stated the 
Agency should not apply the ADA information on driving non-CMVs to 
driving CMVs. In addition, Advocates disagreed with the Agency's safety 
conclusions and cited FMCSA's 2010 Evidence Report Update, which it 
quoted as stating that in the United States there is ``approximately a 
24 percent increase in crash risk among drivers with diabetes compared 
with drivers without diabetes,'' and ``a significant increase [175%] in 
crash risk for individuals treated with insulin compared with drivers 
treated with oral medication and/or diet alone.'' Based on this 
information, Advocates urged the Agency to adopt the 2007 MRB 
recommendations.
    2015 MRB Report: The 2015 MRB report did not address the safety of 
ITDM individuals but stated that the baseline for acceptable risk 
should be the current diabetes exemption program.
    Comments on the MRB's Report on Safety of ITDM Individuals: Few 
commenters specifically referenced data in connection with evaluating 
the safety of ITDM individuals. For example, OOIDA commented that, 
since the implementation of the exemption program in 2003, individuals 
with a stable history of treating their insulin dependent diabetes have 
proven to be safe CMV operators. OOIDA was ``unaware of any studies 
that have been conducted or any serious concerns that have been raised 
concerning those drivers who have completed the current exemption 
process.''
    In contrast, the University of Utah stated that FMCSA's 2010 
Evidence Report Update notes that the risk of crash among ITDM 
individuals in the United States is now estimated to be a 2.76-fold 
increased risk. The commenter stated that this risk is so high that it 
means there may be a very small minority of ITDM individuals who may be 
reasonably safe, and that ``[i]t demonstrates that the overwhelming 
majority of insulin using drivers are unsafe for driving commercial 
vehicles.'' The commenter noted that the United States-based data are 
naturally the most important to the question of safety, as European 
countries' populations have comparatively minor needs to drive motor 
vehicles. Therefore, European populations are arguably not comparable 
to the United States.
    The University of Utah also stated that DOT's insulin waiver 
program, which had stringent criteria and enrolled 139 drivers in the 
1990s, had subsequent crash data that suggested there was not an 
increased risk of crash for those individuals. The commenter noted that 
the comparison group of general CMV drivers likely included drivers who 
should not have been driving; thus, it was likely a biased control 
group. The University of Utah continued that FMCSA has subsequently had 
a fairly-stringent diabetes exemption program and it should be 
mandatory to examine the crash risks from that program prior to 
consideration of this proposal. While the crash data would still have 
the problem of a biased control population, the commenter stated that 
it would provide a somewhat reasonable comparison with the prior waiver 
program and help to determine whether and the extent to which both 
driver safety and public safety can be assured. Finally, the commenter 
recommended that there should be a pilot test with monitoring of crash 
risks before expanding the medical qualification of ITDM individuals.
    FMCSA Response: The Agency continues to conclude that the crash 
risk posed by ITDM individuals who maintain a stable insulin regimen 
and proper control of their diabetes is very low in general and that 
such ITDM individuals do not create any meaningful risk of injury to 
themselves or others due to their insulin treatment. Although the 
Agency acknowledges that there is conflicting data regarding the crash 
risk posed by ITDM individuals, no new data have been presented by 
commenters to persuade the Agency to depart from its prior conclusions. 
Moreover, the Agency has determined that this final rule includes 
sufficient requirements and safeguards to ensure that only individuals 
who maintain a stable insulin regimen and proper control of their ITDM 
will receive medical qualification. Therefore, this final rule has no 
adverse impact on safety.
    The Agency acknowledges that the 2012 ADA position statement 
focused primarily on non-CMV drivers. FMCSA emphasizes, however, that 
it is not the only source the Agency has considered in making its 
determination that the risk posed by ITDM individuals who maintain a 
stable insulin regimen and proper control of their diabetes is very 
low. The Agency has considered its Evidence Reports, information 
presented by commenters, and its own experience with CMV drivers.
    As a commenter suggested, because there are few studies that 
evaluate ITDM individuals who operate CMVs, the Agency's actual 
experience with such individuals is highly relevant. Considering the 
long period over which the exemption program has operated, the Agency 
has determined that there is sufficient data to allow generalized 
conclusions to be reached. FMCSA's experience with the exemption 
program has demonstrated that the safety performance of ITDM 
individuals who hold exemptions is as good as that of the general 
population of CMV drivers. As set forth in the NPRM, on a per-driver, 
per-year basis, the crash rate for drivers with an exemption was 0.013, 
as compared to about 0.038 crashes per year per active CMV driver. As 
is discussed more fully in the RIA, a November 2016 analysis of the 
safety performance of ITDM individuals who held exemptions for the full 
period of 2011 through 2015 shows the 755 diabetes exemption holders 
had 58 crashes that resulted in a crash rate of 0.01536 crashes per 
driver per year. This compares to a crash rate of 0.03115 crashes per 
driver per year for a national population of 4,599,623 drivers and 
143,289 crashes. These results were deemed to be demonstrative that 
exemption program crash rates were of the same order of magnitude as 
the national crash rate derived from the Motor Carrier Management 
Information System data. The analysis proceeded to determine if the 
0.02986 crash rate for treatment group drivers was significantly 
different than the 0.02627 crash rate for the control group drivers, at 
a 95 percent confidence level. The analysis indicated that there was no 
statistical difference between the treatment group and control group 
crash

[[Page 47511]]

rates at the 95 percent confidence level.\24\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \24\ ``Safety Performance of Drivers with Medical Exemptions: 
How safe are drivers in a medical exemption program compared to 
those who are not?'' Nov. 2016, which is available at https://rosap.ntl.bts.gov/view/dot/31521 (June 1, 2018).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Although the Agency fully considered FMCSA's 2006 Diabetes Evidence 
Report and the 2010 Evidence Report Update at the time of the NPRM, the 
Agency will briefly address the 2010 Evidence Report Update due to 
comments regarding the crash risks provided in the report. The report 
found that the overall quality of the crash risk studies reviewed was 
low to moderate. Because only a single study compared crash risk among 
CMV drivers with diabetes against comparable CMV drivers without 
diabetes, an evidence-based conclusion regarding possible increased 
crash risk for CMV drivers with diabetes could not be drawn. The 
strength of evidence for the overall finding that drivers with diabetes 
are at an increased risk for a crash when compared with comparable 
drivers who do not have diabetes was determined to be weak. It could 
not be determined whether drivers with type 1 or type 2 diabetes or 
ITDM drivers were overrepresented in populations of drivers who have 
experienced a motor vehicle crash. As such, the report's findings are 
inconclusive at best.
    The report noted that studies conducted in the United States showed 
approximately a 24 percent increase in crash risk among drivers with 
diabetes compared with drivers without diabetes. This finding, however, 
was based on six studies that were published in 1965, 1968, 1973, 1988, 
1991, and 2003. The Agency agrees with Advocates that knowledge and 
treatment of diabetes has increased significantly in recent years. 
Because the studies reviewed most likely do not reflect current 
treatment practices and protocols, the Agency has determined that they 
are of little probative value with respect to the present issue. The 
report noted that in the United States there was a significant increase 
in crash risk (2.753) for individuals treated with insulin when 
compared with drivers treated with oral medication and/or diet alone. 
It continued that a firm conclusion could not be made with respect to 
this finding because there were only two studies to review. In 
addition, those studies, which were published in 1988 and 2003, are too 
old to provide probative evidence. FMCSA finds that its more recent 
data that relates directly to ITDM individuals who operate CMVs are 
more relevant in assessing crash risk in such individuals.
    The Agency has reviewed the five journal articles referenced by the 
former MRB members. Three of the articles examine the relationship 
between diabetes and crash risk for drivers in foreign countries. 
Because of potential differences in the experience and training of 
drivers, driving regulations, and the treatment of diabetes, drivers in 
foreign countries may not be comparable to those in the United States. 
The Agency agrees, therefore, with the University of Utah that United 
States-based data are the most important to assessing the safety risk 
at issue. One of these articles was cited by the former MRB members for 
the proposition that increased crash risk is associated with efforts to 
maintain tight blood glucose control with HbA1C below 7 percent. In as 
much as this rule has not prescribed a specific HbA1C level that must 
be achieved to be medically qualified, the rule does not provide an 
incentive to maintain HbA1C levels below 7 percent. This was the only 
one of the three articles that included CMV operators; however, it also 
included non-CMV drivers and did not differentiate between the two 
types of drivers in the statistical analysis.
    A fourth article examined the extent to which there is an age-
related component to crash risk among individuals with type 1 diabetes. 
The article concluded that reported crashes decline with age in all 
persons, but the crash risk remained higher for persons with diabetes 
throughout the age span. There was no relationship between crashes and 
diabetes complications, blood glucose control, and diabetes treatment 
patterns. Severe hypoglycemia was consistently and strongly related to 
crashes at all ages.\25\ However, the authors found that the link 
between reported hypoglycemia history and reported crashes was 
indirect, and it was not possible to determine the extent to which 
hypoglycemia actually contributed to the reported crashes. 
Additionally, the number of crashes identified was low; therefore, the 
article concluded further study was necessary to establish the 
relationship between hypoglycemia and crashes.\26\ The article does not 
identify whether it included CMV operators. It also included drivers 
under the age of 21, who generally would not qualify to obtain an 
interstate CDL. Finally, the article included individuals with 
retinopathy who may not be eligible under this rule to be medically 
qualified to operate a CMV.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \25\ Songer TJ, Dorsey RR. Annu Proc Assoc Adv Automot Med. 
2006; 50: 348.
    \26\ Id. at 349.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The fifth study presents the results of an analysis in which the 
number of crashes are estimated for a hypothetical group of ITDM truck 
drivers with an estimated incidence of mild and severe hypoglycemia, an 
estimated number of reactions while driving, and an estimated 
likelihood of a crash during a mild or severe hypoglycemic reaction, as 
compared to a second hypothetical group of truck drivers who are not 
insulin dependent. Because the article was not based on actual data and 
was published in 1993, FMCSA finds that this article is unreliable and 
is no longer relevant.
    For the reasons discussed above, the Agency finds that the five 
articles cited by the former MRB members are not as persuasive as 
FMCSA's actual experience with crash risk for ITDM individuals who 
drive CMVs.
    The Agency conducted a review of the literature regarding safety of 
ITDM individuals to identify studies performed after the 2010 Evidence 
Report Update. The Agency did not find any literature pertaining to the 
safety risk of ITDM individuals operating CMVs other than its own 
studies.
    FMCSA declines to pursue a pilot period prior to implementing this 
rule, as a commenter has suggested. FMCSA finds that the current 
exemption program has demonstrated that ITDM individuals can drive a 
CMV in a manner as safe or safer than other CMV drivers.

V. Costs and Benefits of the Proposed Rule

    NPRM: The NPRM stated that this rulemaking would not have a 
significant economic impact. Compared to other CMV drivers, ITDM 
individuals would incur costs for an additional medical examination of 
$150 annually; however, they would have the ability to earn a living 
without the inconvenience and added costs of obtaining and maintaining 
an exemption.
    Comments on Costs and Benefits of the Proposed Rule: FMCSA received 
comments discussing the costs and benefits associated with the proposed 
rule. Two commenters provided information about potential cost savings. 
TFAC noted that FMCSA did not account for cost savings to existing 
drivers with type 2 diabetes who are trying to avoid insulin treatment. 
TFAC indicated that enabling ITDM individuals to be qualified to 
operate CMVs would remove the incentive to avoid insulin treatment and 
would allow medical professionals to treat their CMV-driver patients 
with type 2

[[Page 47512]]

diabetes in the most appropriate, cost-effective manner. An ITDM 
individual estimated his costs would decrease by at least $600 annually 
from eliminating three of his four annual visits to the 
endocrinologist. The IBT, TTD, and OOIDA commented that the exemption 
program is a time consuming and financially burdensome process that can 
result in lost income and possibly job loss while waiting for FMCSA to 
grant an exemption.
    Two commenters said FMCSA underestimated the cost of the proposed 
rule. A certified ME, who is a physician, stated that because the rule 
transfers the ``function and responsibilities'' for medically 
qualifying an ITDM individual from the Agency to the certified ME, as a 
physician, he would continue to require at least annual assessments 
from an ophthalmologist and endocrinologist, and increase his charges 
to compensate for the increased time and risk involved in certifying 
ITDM individuals. This commenter also indicated that the costs saved by 
FMCSA will be transferred as costs to ITDM individuals and certified 
MEs.
    A different physician asserted that the Agency did not account for 
several costs associated with the elimination of the exemption program. 
The physician stated that ``to avoid hypoglycemia, the CMV driver will 
not be able to maintain tight control which will accelerate the 
progression for the [insulin-treated CMV driver] to develop eye, nerve, 
and kidney complications.'' The physician suggested that FMCSA did not 
address the increased cost on the medical system of ITDM individuals 
avoiding hypoglycemia or consider the impact of the proposed rule on 
the organ systems and lifespan of ITDM individuals. The commenter noted 
that ``[i]n, 2011, about 282,000 emergency room visits for adults aged 
18 years or older had hypoglycemia as the first-listed diagnosis and 
diabetes as another diagnosis.'' Additionally, in 2011, about 175,000 
emergency room visits for people of all ages had hyperglycemic crisis 
as the first-listed diagnosis.
    2015 MRB Report: The 2015 MRB report did not address the costs and 
benefits of the proposed rule.
    Comments on the Costs and Benefits of the MRB's Recommendations: A 
few commenters discussed the costs and benefits of the 2015 MRB 
recommendations. For example, OOIDA supported most of the MRB 
recommendations and noted that the recommendations provide a more 
efficient and progressive approach than the current exemption process, 
which is costly and burdensome. OOIDA stated that the exemption process 
can take 180 days or more, plus a 30-day public comment period, and the 
costly time off-the-road can put an owner-operator out of business. In 
addition, the cost of seeing an endocrinologist can easily reach $200 a 
visit. An individual, however, stated that the 2015 MRB recommendations 
would increase the burden on the ITDM individual, creating twice the 
amount of work and expense for the individual and a high risk of 
suspension or loss of license.
    FMCSA Response: The RIA published with this final rule does account 
for cost savings from replacing four endocrinologist visits with one 
visit to a TC. FMCSA estimated the average cost of an office visit with 
an endocrinologist at $280, including $60 for the opportunity cost of 
an assumed 2 hours for the ITDM individual's time to complete the 
appointment, versus $223, inclusive of the ITDM individual's time, for 
a TC evaluation. The annual evaluation and quarterly visits under the 
exemption program are estimated at $1,120, which compares to the $223 
annual cost for the TC evaluation.
    The Agency does not have sufficient data, nor did TFAC provide any 
substantive data, to confirm TFAC's assertion that the rule will 
provide cost savings because type 2 non-ITDM drivers will no longer 
have the incentive to continue using oral medication to avoid insulin.
    In response to OOIDA, the TTD, and the IBT comments, the Agency 
finds that it is appropriate to estimate the income forgone by an 
existing CMV operator who begins treatment with insulin. Thus, in the 
RIA, the Agency included in the exemption program baseline a 
nonrecurring cost of $4,235 per ITDM individual for existing CMV 
operators who begin treatment with insulin.
    The Agency disagrees with the certified ME's assertion that the 
final rule shifts risk to certified MEs and ultimately to individuals 
in the form of higher fees. FMCSA does not regulate the fees the 
certified ME charges, but continues to believe fees are established by 
market forces that will not be altered by this rule. In addition, the 
final rule does not prevent a certified ME from mitigating the 
perceived risk of performing medical examinations on ITDM individuals 
by restricting the certified ME's practice to non-ITDM individuals.
    FMCSA disagrees with the commenter who stated that the Agency did 
not consider that tight control to avoid hypoglycemia will accelerate 
the progression of diabetic complications. The Agency did not specify 
ranges for either HbA1C or blood glucose that would apply to all ITDM 
individuals. By not specifying such ranges, the Agency provides the TC 
with the flexibility to establish and adjust an ITDM individual's 
insulin regimen that will minimize the emergence of complications and 
the occurrence of hypoglycemic episodes. The commenter did not offer 
sufficient data to support the assertions that in 2011 the number of 
emergency room visits for hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia demonstrates 
that FMCSA failed to recognize such costs. Moreover, the data cited was 
for a subset of individuals with coexisting diabetic complications. 
Finally, FMCSA does not maintain data on the lifespan of ITDM 
individuals. Factors other than the impact of diabetes on target organs 
affect an ITDM individual's lifespan. It is beyond the scope of this 
rule to determine the cause of death of ITDM individuals that may occur 
years after they operate a CMV.

W. Privacy Issues

    NPRM: In the NPRM, the Agency determined that the privacy risks and 
effects associated with the proposed rule were not unique and had been 
addressed in other rules.
    Comments Related to Privacy Issues: The IBT expressed its concern 
about privacy issues related to releasing medical information. 
According to the IBT, in many instances the certified ME is a ``company 
doctor'' who requests the entire medical file for individuals as a 
prerequisite to performing a certification examination. To obtain that 
information, the certified ME requires individuals to sign a ``blanket 
authorization,'' which allows the certified ME to release the 
individual's medical file to insurance companies, the employer, and 
various other entities. The IBT stated that motor carriers should not 
be allowed to improperly use the regulations in 49 CFR part 391 as 
justification to obtain and release to third parties information that 
is not relevant to determining whether an individual is qualified to 
operate a CMV.
    2015 MRB Report: The 2015 MRB report did not discuss privacy issues 
and no comments were received concerning the MRB report in this regard.
    FMCSA Response: This final rule does not change the laws and 
regulations applicable to the use or disclosure of an individual's 
medical information. As such, comments regarding the release of medical 
information to employers are outside the scope of this rulemaking. 
Nonetheless, FMCSA notes that TCs and certified MEs are bound by the 
privacy protections outlined under the Health

[[Page 47513]]

Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), which establishes 
national standards to protect individuals' medical records and other 
personal health information. HIPAA requires appropriate safeguards to 
protect the privacy of personal health information and sets limits and 
conditions on the uses and disclosures of such information that may be 
made without authorization by an individual. Therefore, an individual 
would have to provide his or her consent for a TC or certified ME to 
share medical information with other entities, including the motor 
carrier. More information on HIPAA and its requirements can be found on 
the Department of Health and Human Services' website at https://www.hhs.gov/hipaa/for-professionals/privacy/index.html.

X. Other Comments

    Comments on Procedural and Other Issues in the NPRM: Some 
commenters expressed concerns about procedural or documentation matters 
related to the proposed rule. For example, Advocates stated that the 
Expert Panel Opinion resulting from the MRB review of the 2010 Evidence 
Update Report had not been published on FMCSA's website or added to the 
docket for this rulemaking.
    H&SW suggested adding a checkbox to the MEC, MCSA-5876, that states 
the individual is physically qualified to operate a CMV when managing 
his or her condition so the roadside inspector would know the 
individual has ITDM. H&SW noted that roadside inspectors are not 
clinicians; therefore, the requirements must set a blood glucose limit 
to help them determine whether an ITDM individual should operate a CMV. 
In contrast, TFAC strongly opposed any requirements that would make 
information on an individual's ITDM status available to roadside 
enforcement.
    Comments on the Other Issues in the MRB Report: In terms of 
procedural issues in response to the 2015 MRB report, Advocates stated 
that the MRB report was sent to the Agency on September 1, 2015, but 
the Agency took until September 9, 2016, before publishing the report 
for comment.
    FMCSA Response: As explained elsewhere in this final rule, FMCSA is 
not specifying any blood glucose level that would prevent an ITDM 
individual from operating a CMV; therefore, there is no need for 
involvement of enforcement personnel. The final rule does not provide 
any changes to the MEC, MCSA-5876. As with any other medical condition, 
if a driver possesses a valid MEC, MCSA-5876, the certified ME has 
determined that the ITDM individual has met FMCSA's physical 
qualification requirements. Therefore, adding a separate designation on 
the MEC, MCSA-5876, would serve no purpose for enforcement personnel.
    In response to the two comments from Advocates, the Agency notes 
that there is no expert panel commentary in response to the 2010 
Evidence Update Report. The Meeting Summary for the June 30, 2011, MRB 
meeting shows that FMCSA's contractor presented a summary of the 
results of the 2010 Evidence Update Report to the MRB, and the MRB 
decided not to request another expert panel following the report.\27\ 
To clarify, the MRB recommendations referenced in the NPRM were those 
provided at the MRB's July 26, 2007, meeting.\28\ The 2015 MRB report 
was available for public viewing on FMCSA's website on September 3, 
2015, just 2 days after the date of the report. Although the notice of 
availability was not published until September 9, 2016, the public was 
provided a meaningful opportunity to comment on the report. Comments 
received in response to the 2015 MRB report are addressed in this final 
rule.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \27\ See https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/summary-june-30-2011-medical-review-board-public-meeting.
    \28\ See https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/summary-july-26-2007-medical-review-board-public-meeting.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Y. Outside the Scope

    Comments Outside the Scope of the NPRM: Several commenters 
suggested adjustments to the proposed rule such as technological 
initiatives that are outside the scope of this rule; therefore, a 
response is not required. For example, one commenter stressed the 
importance of individuals with diabetes controlling their blood sugar 
levels, noting both low and high blood glucose index values can impede 
thinking, and recommended developing technology that would continually 
monitor the blood glucose index to alert the ITDM individual to highs 
or lows.
    Comments Outside the Scope of the MRB Report: The following 
commenters offered some observations that fall outside the scope of the 
recommendations of the 2015 MRB report. An individual recommended 
Bydureon as an alternative treatment to placing individuals on insulin. 
An owner-operator commented on being unable to obtain a CDL since he 
was prescribed insulin. He stated that, even though his diabetes is 
under control and he does not haul long distance, the current rule 
disqualifies him from operating CMVs. He requested that the Agency 
provide an exemption for individuals with controlled diabetes who haul 
short distances.

VII. Section-by-Section Analysis

    This section includes a summary of the regulatory changes in 49 CFR 
part 391 organized by section number.

Sec.  391.41 Physical Qualifications for Drivers

    In Sec.  391.41, paragraphs (a), (b)(1), and (b)(2) are not 
altered.
    Paragraph (b)(3) adds an exception at the end of the sentence to 
indicate that there are requirements provided in Sec.  391.46 for 
individuals who have diabetes mellitus treated with insulin for 
control.
    Paragraphs (b)(4) through (b)(13) are not modified.

Sec.  391.45 Persons Who Must Be Medically Examined and Certified

    Other than deleting ``of this subpart'' from the existing 
introductory paragraph, the introductory paragraph and paragraph (a) 
are not altered.
    The content from paragraph (b)(1) becomes new paragraph (b) and 
adds an exception with a reference to the newly created paragraphs (c), 
(d), (e), (f), and (g) of this section.
    Existing paragraph (b)(2) is separated to form new paragraphs (c) 
and (d) of this section. These new paragraphs are slightly modified for 
clarity and readability.
    New paragraph (e) is inserted to require compliance with new Sec.  
391.46.
    Content from existing paragraph (c) is moved to new paragraph (f).
    Content from existing paragraph (d) is moved to new paragraph (g).

Sec.  391.46 Physical Qualification Standards for an Individual With 
Diabetes Mellitus Treated With Insulin for Control

    This final rule codifies a new Sec.  391.46.
    Paragraph (a), Diabetes mellitus treated with insulin, states that 
ITDM individuals may be physically qualified if they meet certain 
criteria. Paragraph (a)(1) states that ITDM individuals are required to 
meet the physical qualification standards or hold an exemption. 
Paragraph (a)(2) explains that ITDM individuals must have the 
evaluation and medical examination, as required by paragraphs (b) and 
(c).
    Paragraph (b), Evaluation by the treating clinician, states that 
the ITDM individual must have a TC evaluation completed before any 
medical examination by the certified ME and defines a TC. Paragraph 
(b)(1) requires the TC to complete the ITDM Assessment Form, MCSA-5870.

[[Page 47514]]

Paragraph (b)(2) requires TCs to sign and date the form, and provide 
their business contact information on the form.
    Paragraph (c), Medical examiner's examination, sets forth the 
requirements for the certified ME's examination, including that the 
examination must begin no later than 45 days after the individual's TC 
evaluation. Paragraph (c)(1) states that the certified ME must have an 
ITDM Assessment Form, MCSA-5870, for each examination. Paragraph (c)(2) 
provides that the certified ME is to make a medical qualification 
determination by considering the information in the ITDM Assessment 
Form, MCSA-5870, and, using independent medical judgement, by applying 
the medical qualification standards in the paragraph. The standards 
provide that an individual must maintain a stable insulin regimen and 
proper control of his or her diabetes, and cannot have severe non-
proliferative diabetic retinopathy or proliferative diabetic 
retinopathy. The standards also establish the requirements for blood 
glucose self-monitoring for ITDM individuals.
    New paragraph (d), Blood glucose self-monitoring records, discusses 
the blood glucose record-keeping requirements, including submitting 
those records to the TC during the evaluation.
    New paragraph (e), Severe hypoglycemic episodes, provides that an 
ITDM individual who experiences a severe hypoglycemic episode, which is 
defined in the paragraph, is prohibited from operating a CMV and must 
report the episode to and be evaluated by a TC as soon as is reasonably 
practicable. The prohibition from operating a CMV continues until the 
ITDM individual has been evaluated by a TC, and the TC determines that 
the cause of the severe hypoglycemic episode has been addressed and 
that the individual again has a stable insulin regimen and properly 
controlled ITDM. Once a TC completes a new ITDM Assessment Form, MCSA-
5870, following the episode, the individual may resume operating a CMV. 
The ITDM individual must retain and provide the form to the certified 
ME at the individual's next medical certification examination.

Sec.  391.64 Grandfathering for Certain Drivers Participating in Vision 
and Diabetes Waiver Study Programs

    FMCSA inserts new language at the beginning of existing paragraph 
(a) that provides this rule will not apply to individuals certified 
pursuant to Sec.  391.64(a) until 1 year after the effective date of 
the rule. During that year, individuals certified under the grandfather 
provision may choose to be certified under Sec.  391.64(a) or this 
final rule.
    FMCSA adds new paragraph (a)(3) to remove and void all of paragraph 
(a) 1 year after the effective date of this rule; thus, eliminating 
certification under Sec.  391.64(a). FMCSA also adds an amendatory 
instruction for the deletion of paragraphs (a) through (a)(3) 1 year 
after the effective date of this rule. On this date, this language will 
be stricken from the regulation and paragraph (a) will be reserved.

Updates to Appendix A to Part 391--Medical Advisory Criteria

    FMCSA removes paragraph II.C., Diabetes Sec.  391.41(b)(3), in its 
entirety. That paragraph outlines advisory guidelines for the diabetes 
standard. These guidelines are no longer necessary because this final 
rule creates a new standard for ITDM individuals.

Updates to Guidance Q&A for Sec.  391.41, Question 3

    FMCSA also revises guidance for Sec.  391.41, Question 3. In the 
answer to Question 3, FMCSA will remove ``four'' and replace it with 
``three'' to update and reflect the correct number of medical 
conditions that are not subject to the certified ME's judgement, and 
remove ``insulin-using diabetes'' from the list of conditions for which 
the certified ME has no discretion.
    The answer to Question 3 of the guidance for Sec.  391.41 will now 
read as follows: ``The qualification standards cover 13 areas that 
directly relate to the driving functions. All but three of the 
standards require a judgement by the medical examiner. A person's 
qualification to drive is determined by a medical examiner who is 
knowledgeable about the driver's functions and whether a particular 
condition would interfere with the driver's ability to operate a CMV 
safely. In the case of vision, hearing, and epilepsy, the current 
standards are absolute, providing no discretion to the medical 
examiner.''

VIII. International Impacts

    The FMCSRs, and any exceptions to the FMCSRs, apply only within the 
United States (and, in some cases, United States territories). Motor 
carriers and drivers are subject to the laws and regulations of the 
countries in which they operate, unless an international agreement 
states otherwise. Drivers and carriers should be aware of the 
regulatory differences among nations. As stated previously, ITDM 
individuals with licenses issued in Canada or Mexico will not be 
allowed to operate CMVs in the United States.

IX. Regulatory Analyses

A. E.O. 12866 (Regulatory Planning and Review), E.O. 13563 (Improving 
Regulation and Regulatory Review), and DOT Regulatory Policies and 
Procedures

    FMCSA determined that this final rule is not a significant 
regulatory action under section 3(f) of E.O. 12866 (58 FR 51735, Oct. 
4, 1993), Regulatory Planning and Review, as supplemented by E.O. 13563 
(76 FR 3821, Jan. 21, 2011), Improving Regulation and Regulatory 
Review, and does not require an assessment of potential costs and 
benefits under section 6(a)(3) of that Order. Accordingly, OMB has not 
reviewed it under that Order. It is also not significant within the 
meaning of DOT regulatory policies and procedures (DOT Order 2100.5 
dated May 22, 1980; 44 FR 11034, Feb. 26, 1979). The Agency, however, 
has considered the total costs and benefits of this final rule and 
determined they are less than $100 million annually.
    The objective of the final rule is to replace the exemption program 
with a less time consuming and less costly process that continues to 
ensure that ITDM individuals can operate CMVs safely. The final rule 
also provides a clearer, equally effective, and more consistent 
framework than a program based entirely on exemptions. In the following 
sections, the Agency describes the impacts of the rule to the entities 
listed in Table 2 (above).
Costs to ITDM Individuals Currently Compliant With the Exemption 
Program
    The Agency estimates that there are presently 5,000 ITDM 
individuals that have exemptions (4,879 = 3,945 FMCSA exemption holders 
+ estimated 930 State exemption holders rounded to the nearest 
thousand).\29\ As the compliance costs of the exemption program are 
greater than those of the final rule, the Agency assumes that these 
ITDM individuals will comply with the final rule. Because these ITDM 
individuals have already obtained an MEC, MCSA-5876, and an exemption, 
the baseline costs for this group consist of annual recurring medical 
and associated expenses for examinations necessary to maintain their 
exemption.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \29\ See RIA Section 2.5.2 for the detailed development of the 
estimated number of State exemption holders.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    To gauge the final rule's cost impact to these ITDM individuals, it 
is necessary to compare their compliance costs pre- and post-rule. The 
Agency

[[Page 47515]]

estimates the recurring costs in the baseline for an ITDM individual to 
maintain an exemption as follows:
     The opportunity cost of 1 hour of time to prepare a 
renewal application: $30; \30\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \30\ The opportunity cost of drivers' time is estimated in RIA 
Section 2.6.1.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

     The cost of four endocrinologist office visits, consisting 
of one annual complete medical examination plus three quarterly office 
visits. The cost of each endocrinologist office visit is $280 
(inclusive of the ITDM individual's time to complete the 
examination).\31\ Therefore, these ITDM individuals would each incur 
$1,120 ($1,120 = $280 x 4) per year in compliance costs related to this 
component of the exemption program;
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \31\ This cost is estimated in RIA Section 2.6.3.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

     The cost for an annual comprehensive eye examination: $260 
(inclusive of the opportunity cost of the ITDM individual's time to 
complete the examination).\32\ However, Centers for Disease Control and 
Prevention (CDC) data indicate that approximately 65 percent of 
individuals with diabetes receive annual dilated vision 
examinations.\33\ Therefore, FMCSA assumes that only 35 percent of the 
$260 comprehensive eye examination cost is a cost attributable to the 
exemption program. Thus, the effective average comprehensive eye 
examination cost is reduced to $91 for this analysis ($91 = $260 x (1 - 
65 percent)); and
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \32\ Id.
    \33\ CDC, Division of Diabetes Translation, Diabetes Report Card 
2014, p. 9. This percentage represents the individuals 18 years and 
older that have diabetes and who reported receiving an annual 
dilated eye examination. The Diabetes Report Card is published 
biennially by the CDC. The report provides current information on 
the status of diabetes in the United States. It includes information 
and data about diabetes mellitus, gestational diabetes, prediabetes, 
preventive care practices, risk factors, quality of care, diabetes 
outcomes, and, National and State trends. The data are from the CDC 
Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, which is a health-
related telephone (landline and cellphone) survey that collects 
State-level data about health-related risk behaviors, chronic health 
conditions, and use of preventive services. The survey questions 
include 11 questions related to diabetes preventative medicine 
covering the frequency of physicals, dilated vision examinations, 
blood glucose and HbA1C monitoring, and diabetes education. See 
https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/pdfs/library/diabetesreportcard2014.pdf 
(Accessed May 25, 2018).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

     The cost of an out-of-period medical qualification 
examination: $218 (inclusive of the opportunity cost of the ITDM 
individual's time).\34\ However, the out-of-period examination occurs 
only every other year and therefore is halved to $109 for this 
analysis.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \34\ This cost is estimated in RIA Section 2.6.3.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Altogether, the recurring costs for ITDM individuals to renew and 
maintain their exemptions total $1,350 each. This is the sum of the 
costs noted above, specifically the $30 cost of time to prepare a 
renewal application, the $1,120 endocrinologist examination cost, the 
$91 vision examination cost, and the $109 out-of-period medical 
qualification examination cost.\35\ The continuation of the exemption 
program would cost this group of ITDM individuals $6,750,000 
($6,750,000 = 5,000 ITDM individuals x $1,350 per ITDM individual) per 
year.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \35\ The Agency assumes that the cost for an ITDM individual to 
obtain a State exemption or an FMCSA exemption is the same.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Because of the final rule, the exemption program will be 
eliminated. The compliance cost under the final rule for each of these 
5,000 ITDM individuals to obtain their MEC, MCSA-5876, is estimated as 
follows:
     The cost of an annual evaluation by a TC: $223 (inclusive 
of the opportunity cost of the ITDM individual's time); \36\ and
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \36\ This cost is estimated in RIA Section 2.6.3.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

     The cost of an out-of-period medical qualification 
examination: $218 (inclusive of the opportunity cost of the ITDM 
individual's time). However, the out-of-period examination occurs only 
every other year and therefore is halved to $109 for this analysis.
    The annual cost each of these 5,000 ITDM individuals will bear per 
year to comply with the final rule is therefore $332 ($332 = $223 + 
$109), a 75.4 percent decrease relative to the $1,350 compliance cost 
of the exemption program. In total, these 5,000 ITDM individuals will 
bear a cost of $1,660,000 under the final rule ($1,660,000 = 5,000 ITDM 
individuals x $332 per ITDM individual), which is $5.09 million less 
than the cost they would bear under the exemption program ($5.09 
million = ($6,750,000 - $1,660,000)/$1,000,000), and which constitutes 
the largest share of the total cost savings that will result from the 
final rule.

Costs to Future Compliant ITDM Individuals

    In accordance with 49 CFR 391.41(b)(3), an individual subject to 
FMCSA's physical qualification requirements who begins treatment with 
insulin for diabetes mellitus cannot be medically qualified to operate 
a CMV. Consequently, an ITDM individual in this situation is likely to 
lose income until FMCSA issues an exemption. Motor carriers that would 
employ these ITDM individuals will also lose income from the 
productivity that would have resulted from the labor hours forgone. The 
Agency estimates that 27 ITDM individuals and the carriers that would 
employ them would continue to bear the burden of obtaining an exemption 
in the baseline.\37\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \37\ The estimate of 27 new ITDM individuals seeking exemptions 
in the baseline is developed in RIA Section 2.5.2.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    FMCSA does not have data on the average length of time it takes for 
an individual beginning treatment with insulin to complete the daily 
blood glucose measurements and medical examinations necessary prior to 
submitting an initial exemption application.\38\ However, after 
receiving an initial exemption application, it takes FMCSA on average 
77 days to review a complete application before granting an exemption. 
This may be a conservative estimate of the length of time that both 
drivers and their potential employers incur opportunity costs, because 
the clock for determining the 77-day average waiting period does not 
start until the application is deemed complete by FMCSA. For these 
reasons, FMCSA finds that the 77-day estimate of the average waiting 
period during which drivers beginning treatment with insulin and the 
motor carriers that employ them incur opportunity costs may be 
conservatively low.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \38\ The exemption program requires individuals newly diagnosed 
with diabetes mellitus who are beginning treatment with insulin to 
provide 60 days of daily blood glucose measurements while being 
treated with insulin to the endocrinologist. Drivers transitioning 
from oral medication to insulin are required to provide 30 days of 
daily blood glucose measurements while being treated with insulin. 
FMCSA does not have data to determine how many ITDM individuals 
might fall under either of these reporting requirements. Were such 
data available, it would likely increase the Agency's estimate of 
the length of time an ITDM individual would not be able to operate a 
CMV. The daily blood glucose monitoring requirements are specified 
in Section 13A of the endocrinologist checklist that is included in 
the diabetes exemption program application package. See https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/medical/driver-medical-requirements/diabetes-exemption-application (Accessed May 25, 2018).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The Agency assumes that new ITDM drivers will obtain alternative 
employment while waiting for FMCSA to grant an exemption, and that the 
alternative employment will produce income (wage and benefits combined) 
equal to $25 per hour.\39\ Based on the

[[Page 47516]]

$30 per hour average wage and benefits per driver,\40\ a driver idled 
while waiting for an exemption to be granted would forgo $5 of income 
per hour he or she is prohibited from driving. Given the 77-day average 
wait time for FMCSA to issue an exemption and an 11-hour driving day, a 
driver filing an initial exemption application would forgo $4,235 
($4,235 = $5 per hour x 11 hours per day x 77 days) of income. The 
final rule eliminates this cost, resulting in an annual cost savings of 
$114,345 ($114,345 = $4,235 opportunity cost per new exemption program 
applicant x 27 new exemption program applicants per year).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \39\ The $25 per hour wage is an average of the hourly wage for 
several occupations within North American Industrial Classification 
System (NAICS) industry 488400 (Support Services Road 
Transportation). The 2016 average hourly wage for Laborers and 
Freight, Stock and Materials Movers is $13.85 and is $16.73 for Tank 
Car, Truck and Shop Loaders. This results in an average wage of 
$15.29 ($15.29 = ($13.85 + $16.73) / 2) to which is added $9.54 for 
average hourly benefits (discussed in further detail in the RIA). 
The Agency used these labor categories because they are 
representative of non-driving positions that may be available with 
motor carriers for a driver who begins treatment with insulin until 
an exemption is granted. The Agency believes that this is a 
conservative assumption because a motor carrier could terminate the 
employee, which would increase the opportunity cost to the driver. 
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) wage data are available at 
https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/naics4_488400.htm#53-0000 (Accessed 
May 25, 2018).
    \40\ See RIA Section 2.6.1.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The Agency also monetizes the opportunity cost to motor carriers 
resulting from the loss of available labor inputs during the 77-day 
average application waiting period. The Agency estimates motor 
carriers' opportunity cost at $3.20 per hour.\41\ At that rate, the 
opportunity cost to motor carriers per exemption program applicant is 
estimated at $2,710 ($2,710 = $3.20 per hour x 11 hours per day x 77 
days). The final rule will eliminate this cost, resulting in an annual 
cost savings of $73,170 ($73,170 = $2,710 motor carrier opportunity 
cost per new exemption program applicant x 27 new exemption program 
applicants per year).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \41\ See RIA Section 2.6.2.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Together, the driver and motor carrier opportunity costs per new 
exemption program applicant sum to $6,945 ($6,945 = $4,235 driver 
opportunity cost + $2,710 carrier opportunity cost). Aggregated over 
the projected 27 new exemption program applicants per year, this cost 
totals $187,515 ($187,515 = 27 applicants x $6,945 per applicant), of 
which $114,345 is borne by new ITDM individuals and $73,170 by motor 
carriers. In addition to the $114,345 in opportunity costs, ITDM 
individuals incur $36,450 of annual medical-related compliance costs 
($36,450 = $1,350 medical expenses per individual x 27 individuals). In 
total, the baseline annual cost of the exemption program with respect 
to new exemption holders and the motor carriers that would employ them 
is $223,965 ($223,965 = $187,515 + $36,450).
    The final rule eliminates the $187,515 opportunity cost of the 
exemption program's 77-day waiting period. The remaining $36,450 of 
baseline compliance costs for the 27 new ITDM individuals will be 
reduced by the final rule to $8,964 per year (that is, $332 per 
individual per year under the final rule versus $1,350 per individual 
per year in the baseline). On an annual basis, the cost savings to 
these individuals and to motor carriers totals $215,001 ($215,001 = 
$187,515 + $36,450-$8,964).
Costs to Non-Participating ITDM Individuals
    There is good reason to assume that ITDM individuals compliant with 
the requirements of the exemption program will comply with the less 
burdensome requirements of the final rule. It is not as simple to 
estimate the degree to which the estimated ITDM individuals without 
exemptions (among both CDL and non-CDL interstate drivers as well as 
intrastate CDL drivers), or intrastate non-CDL holders--also without 
exemptions--may alter their behavior in response to the final rule.
    In the RIA published at the NPRM stage, FMCSA demonstrated a range 
of gross compliance costs that would be incurred by medically qualified 
ITDM individuals by considering costs as a function of the share of 
medically qualified ITDM individuals. As the Agency does not know what 
share of ITDM individuals would be medically qualified, the NPRM 
analysis assumed three possible representative values: 100 percent, 
66.7 percent, and 33.3 percent. The Agency reconsidered and ultimately 
discontinued the use of this approach for the analysis of the final 
rule. The Agency concludes that a focus on gross compliance costs fails 
to properly characterize the deregulatory nature and cost savings of 
the rule. Therefore, it reassessed its analytical approach from a 
microeconomic perspective for this analysis of the final rule. Under 
the revised approach the Agency first divided the group of ``non-
participating'' ITDM individuals into three subgroups, then considered 
each subgroup's pre- and post-rule behavior using rational choice 
theory.
    The first subgroup consists of an estimated 189,363 ITDM 
individuals operating CMVs in interstate commerce either with or 
without a CDL, plus those with intrastate CDLs.\42\ By definition, 
these individuals should already be in compliance with the exemption 
program due to the fact that they either have a CDL, operate a CMV in 
interstate commerce, or both. The Agency assumes that these individuals 
have chosen not to participate in either FMCSA or State exemption 
programs because they perceive the cost of non-compliance to be less 
than the cost of compliance--making non-compliance their most rational 
choice in the baseline. The final rule may or may not change their 
behavior. Each individual will choose between the lesser of the reduced 
cost of compliance (that is, a $332 final rule compliance cost, as the 
final rule eliminates nearly all of the $5,585 baseline compliance 
cost) and his or her perceived cost of non-compliance, which is 
unaffected by the final rule. Regardless of the individual's chosen 
behavior under the final rule, he or she will not incur any new net 
costs, and potentially will incur a cost savings if the $332 compliance 
cost of the final rule is less than his or her perceived cost of non-
compliance. Therefore, this rule imposes no costs to this subgroup.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \42\ See RIA Section 2.5.2 for the Agency's derivation of the 
size of this subgroup's population.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The second and third subgroups together are composed of ITDM 
individuals operating as intrastate non-CDL drivers.\43\ Subgroup two 
consists of individuals operating in States that have medical 
requirements applicable to non-CDL individuals. The Agency assumes that 
this final rule will indirectly apply to these individuals through 
State adoption of compatible regulations in order to maintain 
eligibility for Motor Carrier Safety Assistance Program grants. 
Therefore, by definition, these individuals should already be in 
compliance with State exemption programs, but are not. Following the 
same logic as discussed with respect to subgroup one, these individuals 
will bear no new net costs under the final rule and could potentially 
incur a cost savings.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \43\ In Section 2.5.2 of the RIA, the Agency estimates that 
subgroups two and three together contain a total of 54,000 ITDM 
individuals, but lacks data to estimate the ratio of the size of 
subgroup two to subgroup three.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The third subgroup is the complement to the second subgroup but is 
specific to ITDM individuals operating in States that do not have 
medical requirements applicable to non-CDL individuals. The Agency 
assumes that these States will not change their regulations as a result 
of the final rule; therefore, individuals in this subgroup will be 
unaffected and will bear no costs.
Costs to the Agency
    FMCSA relies on a contractor to assist it to administer the 
diabetes exemption program. The average annual cost for the 3 remaining 
option years of the contract is $1,025,474. The final rule eliminates 
the need for this service, and will therefore produce an annual cost 
savings of $1,025,474.

[[Page 47517]]

Total Annual Costs of the Rule
    Table 3 shows the total costs estimated for the final rule. The 
Agency based the costs on a representative year approach (using 
exemption program participation data from December 31, 2016). The 
relative costs between the baseline and the final rule do not change in 
future years (save for slight changes due to growth in the baseline of 
the exemption holder population that are not accounted for as they are 
minimal). Therefore, this analysis does not present a separate 
discussion of the annualized costs at either a 3 percent or 7 percent 
discount rate, as those costs would be nearly identical to the costs 
shown in Table 3, which the Agency characterizes as annualized costs. 
The total costs of the final rule are estimated at -$6,347,241, 
representing a cost savings of $6.35 million annually.

                                        Table 3--Total Cost of Final Rule
                                              [Annualized in 2016$]
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                    Final rule      Total cost/
                            Category                               Baseline cost       cost          (savings)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Current Compliant ITDM Individuals..............................      $6,750,000      $1,660,000    ($5,090,000)
Future Compliant ITDM Individuals...............................         167,550           8,964       (158,586)
Non-Participating ITDM Individuals..............................               0               0               0
Motor Carriers..................................................          73,170               0        (73,170)
FMCSA...........................................................       1,025,474               0     (1,025,474)
                                                                 -----------------------------------------------
    Total.......................................................       8,016,205       1,668,694     (6,347,241)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Benefits
    The Agency reviewed the literature to identify analyses that 
quantified health benefits realized by treating diabetes with insulin. 
These studies quantified the benefits of insulin use; however, none of 
these analyses were applicable directly to CMV operators. In the 
absence of such analyses, the Agency did not quantify health benefits 
associated with the final rule, though considers that the final rule 
has potential to improve the health of drivers by encouraging that ITDM 
individuals manage their health with the help of TCs.
    The Agency finds that ITDM individuals do not present a safety risk 
greater than CMV drivers that either treat their diabetes with oral 
medication or who have not been diagnosed with diabetes. With respect 
to ITDM individuals' safety performance, the Agency has released a 
study examining the safety performance of CMV operators diagnosed with 
diabetes. The study examined whether the crash rate for ITDM 
individuals in compliance with the FMCSA exemption program was 
significantly different than a control group of non-ITDM individuals.
    In November 2016, FMCSA released an Analysis Brief titled ``Safety 
Performance of Drivers with Medical Exemptions.'' \44\ This analysis 
showed that a 0.02986 crash rate for a treatment group consisting of 
diabetes exemption holders was not significantly different than a 
0.02627 crash rate for a control group of drivers at a 95 percent 
confidence level.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \44\ The Analysis Brief is available at https://rosap.ntl.bts.gov/view/dot/31521 (Accessed May 25, 2018).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

B. E.O. 13771 (Reducing Regulation and Controlling Regulatory Costs)

    This final rule is considered to be an E.O. 13771 deregulatory 
action.\45\ The present value of the cost savings of this rule, 
measured on an infinite time horizon at a 7 percent discount rate, is 
$79.2 million. Expressed on an annualized basis, the cost savings are 
$5.5 million. These values are expressed in 2016 dollars.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \45\ Executive Office of the President. Executive Order 13771 of 
January 30, 2017. Reducing Regulation and Controlling Regulatory 
Costs. 82 FR 9339-9341. Feb. 3, 2017.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

C. Regulatory Flexibility Act

    The Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980 (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.) 
requires Federal agencies to consider the effects of the regulatory 
action on small business and other small entities and to minimize any 
significant economic impact. The term ``small entities'' comprises 
small businesses and not-for-profit organizations that are 
independently owned and operated and are not dominant in their fields 
and governmental jurisdictions with populations of less than 
50,000.\46\ Accordingly, DOT policy requires an analysis of the impact 
of all regulations on small entities, and mandates that agencies shall 
strive to lessen any adverse effects on these businesses.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \46\ Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601). See http://uscode.house.gov/browse/prelim@title5/part1/chapter6&edition=prelim.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Under the standards of the Regulatory Flexibility Act, as amended 
by the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996 (Pub. 
L. 104-121, 110 Stat. 857), this final rule does not impose a 
significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities 
because the medical standards apply to individuals seeking to operate a 
CMV in interstate commerce. Consequently, I certify that the action 
will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of 
small entities.

D. Assistance for Small Entities

    In accordance with section 213(a) of the Small Business Regulatory 
Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996, FMCSA wants to assist small entities 
in understanding this final rule so that they can better evaluate its 
effects on themselves and participate in the rulemaking initiative. If 
the final rule will affect your small business, organization, or 
governmental jurisdiction and you have questions concerning its 
provisions or options for compliance, please consult the FMCSA point of 
contact, Ms. Christine Hydock, listed in the For Further Information 
Contact section of this final rule.
    Small businesses may send comments on the actions of Federal 
employees who enforce or otherwise determine compliance with Federal 
regulations to the Small Business Administration's Small Business and 
Agriculture Regulatory Enforcement Ombudsman and the Regional Small 
Business Regulatory Fairness Boards. The Ombudsman evaluates these 
actions annually and rates each agency's responsiveness to small 
business. If you wish to comment on actions by employees of FMCSA, call 
1-888-REG-FAIR (1-888-734-3247). DOT has a policy regarding the rights 
of small entities to regulatory enforcement fairness and an explicit 
policy against retaliation for exercising these rights.

[[Page 47518]]

E. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995

    The Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (2 U.S.C. 1531-1538) 
requires Federal agencies to assess the effects of their discretionary 
regulatory actions. In particular, the Act addresses actions that may 
result in the expenditure by a State, local, or tribal government, in 
the aggregate, or by the private sector of $156 million (which is the 
value equivalent of $100,000,000 in 1995, adjusted for inflation to 
2015 levels) or more in any one year. This final rule imposes no new 
costs on any regulated entities nor upon State, local, or tribal 
governments. Therefore, no further examination of unfunded mandates is 
required.

F. Paperwork Reduction Act (Collection of Information)

    This final rule calls for a collection of information under the 
Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501-3520). As defined in 5 
CFR 1320.3(c), ``collection of information'' comprises reporting, 
recordkeeping, monitoring, posting, labeling, and other similar 
actions. The substantive comments in response to the 60-day notice 
addressing the ITDM Assessment Form are discussed in the TC Written 
Notification (ITDM Assessment Form) section above. FMCSA did not 
receive any comments in response to the burden of this information 
collection.
    The title and description of the information collection, a 
description of those who must collect the information, and an estimate 
of the total annual burden follow. The estimate covers the time for 
reviewing instructions, searching existing sources of data, gathering 
and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the 
collection.
    Title: Medical Qualification Requirements.
    OMB Control Number: 2126-0006.
    Summary of the Collection of Information: The final rule enables an 
ITDM individual to obtain an MEC, MCSA-5876, from a certified ME at 
least annually if the TC attests to the certified ME on the ITDM 
Assessment Form, MCSA-5879, that the individual maintains a stable 
insulin regimen and proper control of his or her diabetes, and the 
certified ME determines that the individual meets FMCSA's physical 
qualification standards. Certified MEs may certify ITDM individuals for 
up to 12 months.
    Need for Information: This ICR supports the DOT Strategic Goal of 
Safety by ensuring that CMV drivers are physically qualified to operate 
trucks and buses on our nation's highways.
    Use of Information: The TC completes the ITDM Assessment Form, 
MCSA-5870, and attests that the ITDM individual maintains a stable 
insulin regimen and proper control of his or her diabetes. Within 45 
days after the form has been completed, it is provided to the certified 
ME, who performs a physical qualification examination, considers the 
information provided by the TC, and determines whether the individual 
meets FMCSA's physical qualifications standards to safely operate a CMV 
in interstate commerce.
    Description of the Respondents: TCs.
    Number of Respondents: 4,906.
    Frequency of Response: Annually.
    Burden of Response: 8 minutes.
    Estimate of Total Annual Burden: 654 hours.

   TC Annual Burden Hours and Salary Costs To Complete a Form Evaluating the Health of a CMV Driver With ITDM
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                  Number of        Time to                        Annual salary
             Hourly wage of TC 47                   forms       complete form   Annual hours to  costs for TC to
                                                  completed       (minutes)      complete forms   complete forms
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$92.38.......................................           4,906       8 minutes              654          $60,417
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    As described in the table above, the final rule results in 654 
annual burden hours and $60,417 annual salary costs. However, as 
explained in the supporting statement to the ICR, eliminating the 
diabetes exemption program results in 2,599 fewer annual burden hours 
and a $77,749 reduction in annual salary costs. Therefore, the final 
rule results in a net decrease of 1,945 annual burden hours and a net 
decrease of $17,332 in salary costs.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \47\ Note that the $92.38 TC compensation cost used here differs 
from the $163.21 value used to represent the cost of an office visit 
to a TC. For PRA purposes, the $92.38 value--an estimate derived 
from BLS data to represent the hourly wage and benefits of a TC--is 
appropriate for estimating cost as a function of time to complete 
the form.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    As required by the Paperwork Reduction Act, FMCSA will submit a 
copy of this final rule to OMB for its review of the collection of 
information.

G. E.O. 13132 (Federalism)

    A rule has implications for federalism under section 1(a) of E.O. 
13132 if it has ``substantial direct effects on the States, on the 
relationship between the national government and the States, or on the 
distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of 
government.'' FMCSA has determined that this rule would not have 
substantial direct costs on or for States, nor would it limit the 
policymaking discretion of States. Nothing in this document preempts 
any State law or regulation. Therefore, this rule does not have 
sufficient federalism implications to warrant the preparation of a 
Federalism Impact Statement.

H. E.O. 12988 (Civil Justice Reform)

    This final rule meets applicable standards in sections 3(a) and 
3(b)(2) of E.O. 12988, Civil Justice Reform, to minimize litigation, 
eliminates ambiguity, and reduce burden.

I. E.O. 13045 (Protection of Children)

    E.O. 13045, Protection of Children from Environmental Health Risks 
and Safety Risks (62 FR 19885, April 23, 1997), requires agencies 
issuing ``economically significant'' rules, if the regulation also 
concerns an environmental health or safety risk that an agency has 
reason to believe may disproportionately affect children, to include an 
evaluation of the regulation's environmental health and safety effects 
on children. The Agency determined this final rule is not economically 
significant. Therefore, no analysis of the impacts on children is 
required. In any event, the Agency does not anticipate that this 
regulatory action could in any respect present an environmental or 
safety risk that could disproportionately affect children.

J. E.O. 12630 (Taking of Private Property)

    FMCSA reviewed this final rule in accordance with E.O. 12630, 
Governmental Actions and Interference with Constitutionally Protected 
Property Rights, and has determined it will not affect a taking of 
private property or otherwise have taking implications.

[[Page 47519]]

K. Privacy Impact Assessment

    Section 522 of title I of division H of the Consolidated 
Appropriations Act, 2005, enacted December 8, 2004 (Pub. L. 108-447, 
118 Stat. 2809, 3268, 5 U.S.C. 552a note), requires the Agency to 
conduct a privacy impact assessment (PIA) of a regulation that will 
affect the privacy of individuals. In accordance with this Act, a 
privacy impact analysis is warranted to address any privacy 
implications contemplated in the rulemaking. The Agency submitted a 
Privacy Threshold Assessment analyzing the privacy implications to the 
DOT Office of the Secretary's Privacy Office to determine whether a PIA 
is required.
    The DOT Chief Privacy Officer has evaluated the risks and effects 
that this rulemaking might have on collecting, storing, and sharing 
Personally Identifying Information and has examined protections and 
alternative information handling processes in developing the proposal 
in order to mitigate potential privacy risks. The privacy risks and 
effects associated with this rule are not unique and have previously 
been addressed by the medical examination/certification requirements in 
the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners and the Medical 
Examiner's Certification Integration PIA published on the DOT Privacy 
website and the DOT/FMCSA 009--National Registry of Certified Medical 
Examiners System of Records Notice (SORN) (77 FR 24247), published on 
April 23, 2012. An additional PIA and SORN for this rulemaking are not 
required.

L. E.O. 12372 (Intergovernmental Review)

    The regulations implementing E.O. 12372 regarding intergovernmental 
consultation on Federal programs and activities do not apply to this 
program.

M. E.O. 13211 (Energy Supply, Distribution, or Use)

    FMCSA has analyzed this final rule under E.O. 13211, Actions 
Concerning Regulations That Significantly Affect Energy Supply, 
Distribution, or Use. The Agency has determined that it is not a 
``significant energy action'' under that order because it is not a 
``significant regulatory action'' likely to have a significant adverse 
effect on the supply, distribution, or use of energy. Therefore, it 
does not require a Statement of Energy Effects under E.O. 13211. The 
Administrator of the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs has 
not designated it as a significant energy action. Therefore, it does 
not require a Statement of Energy Effects under E.O. 13211.

N. E.O. 13783 (Promoting Energy Independence and Economic Growth)

    E.O. 13783 directs executive departments and agencies to review 
existing regulations that potentially burden the development or use of 
domestically produced energy resources, and to appropriately suspend, 
revise, or rescind those that unduly burden the development of domestic 
energy resources. In accordance with E.O. 13783, DOT prepared and 
submitted a report to the Director of OMB that provides specific 
recommendations that, to the extent permitted by law, could alleviate 
or eliminate aspects of agency action that burden domestic energy 
production. This rule has not been identified by DOT under E.O. 13783 
as potentially alleviating unnecessary burdens on domestic energy 
production.

O. E.O. 13175 (Indian Tribal Governments)

    This rule does not have tribal implications under E.O. 13175, 
Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal Governments, because 
it does not have a substantial direct effect on one or more Indian 
tribes, on the relationship between the Federal government and Indian 
tribes, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities between 
the Federal government and Indian tribes.

P. National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act (Technical 
Standards)

    The National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act (15 U.S.C. 272 
note) directs agencies to use voluntary consensus standards in their 
regulatory activities unless the agency provides Congress, through OMB, 
with an explanation of why using these standards would be inconsistent 
with applicable law or otherwise impractical. Voluntary consensus 
standards (e.g., specifications of materials, performance, design, or 
operation; test methods; sampling procedures; and related management 
systems practices) are standards that are developed or adopted by 
voluntary consensus standards bodies. This rule does not use technical 
standards. Therefore, FMCSA did not consider the use of voluntary 
consensus standards.

Q. Environment (National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA), Clean 
Air Act (CAA), Environmental Justice)

    FMCSA analyzed this rule for the purpose of NEPA (42 U.S.C. 4321 et 
seq.) and determined this action is categorically excluded from further 
analysis and documentation in an environmental assessment or 
environmental impact statement under FMCSA Order 5610.1 (69 FR 9680, 
March 1, 2004), Appendix 2, in paragraphs 6(b) and 6(s)(7). The content 
in this rule is covered by the Categorical Exclusions (CEs) in 
paragraphs 6(b) and 6(s)(7) and the final action does not have any 
effect on the quality of the environment. The CE determination is 
available for review in the docket.
    FMCSA also analyzed this rule under section 176(c) of the CAA, as 
amended (42 U.S.C. 7506(c)), and implementing regulations promulgated 
by the Environmental Protection Agency. Approval of this action is 
exempt from the CAA's general conformity requirement because it does 
not affect direct or indirect emissions of criteria pollutants.
    Under E.O. 12898, Federal Actions to Address Environmental Justice 
in Minority Populations and Low-Income Populations, each Federal agency 
must identify and address, as appropriate, ``disproportionately high 
and adverse human health or environmental effects of its programs, 
policies, and activities on minority populations and low-income 
populations'' in the United States, its possessions, and territories. 
FMCSA evaluated the environmental justice effects of this rule in 
accordance with the E.O., and has determined that no environmental 
justice issue is associated with this final rule, nor is there any 
collective environmental impact that would result from its 
promulgation.

List of Subjects in 49 CFR Part 391

    Alcohol abuse, Drug abuse, Drug testing, Highway safety, Motor 
carriers, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, Safety, 
Transportation.

PART 391--QUALIFICATIONS OF DRIVERS AND LONGER COMBINATION VEHICLE 
(LCV) DRIVER INSTRUCTORS

0
1. The authority citation for part 391 continues to read as follows:


    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 504, 508, 31133, 31136, 31149, 31502; sec. 
4007(b), Pub. L. 102-240, 105 Stat. 1914, 2152; sec. 114, Pub. L. 
103-311, 108 Stat. 1673, 1677; sec. 215, Pub. L. 106-159, 113 Stat. 
1748, 1767; sec.

[[Page 47520]]

32934, Pub. L. 112-141, 126 Stat. 405, 830; secs. 5403 and 5524, 
Pub. L. 114-94, 129 Stat. 1312, 1548, 1560; sec. 2, Pub. L. 115-105, 
131 Stat. 2263; and 49 CFR 1.87.


0
2. Revise Sec.  391.41(b)(3) to read as follows:


Sec.  391.41  Physical qualifications for drivers.

* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (3) Has no established medical history or clinical diagnosis of 
diabetes mellitus currently treated with insulin for control, unless 
the person meets the requirements in Sec.  391.46;
* * * * *

0
3. Revise Sec.  391.45 to read as follows:


Sec.  391.45  Persons who must be medically examined and certified.

    The following persons must be medically examined and certified in 
accordance with Sec.  391.43 as physically qualified to operate a 
commercial motor vehicle:
    (a) Any person who has not been medically examined and certified as 
physically qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle;
    (b) Any driver who has not been medically examined and certified as 
qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle during the preceding 24 
months, unless the driver is required to be examined and certified in 
accordance with paragraph (c), (d), (e), (f), or (g) of this section;
    (c) Any driver authorized to operate a commercial motor vehicle 
only within an exempt intra-city zone pursuant to Sec.  391.62, if such 
driver has not been medically examined and certified as qualified to 
drive in such zone during the preceding 12 months;
    (d) Any driver authorized to operate a commercial motor vehicle 
only by operation of the exemption in Sec.  391.64, if such driver has 
not been medically examined and certified as qualified to drive during 
the preceding 12 months;
    (e) Any driver who has diabetes mellitus treated with insulin for 
control and who has obtained a medical examiner's certificate under the 
standards in Sec.  391.46, if such driver's most recent medical 
examination and certification as qualified to drive did not occur 
during the preceding 12 months;
    (f) Any driver whose ability to perform his or her normal duties 
has been impaired by a physical or mental injury or disease; and
    (g) Beginning June 22, 2021, any person found by a medical examiner 
not to be physically qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle 
under the provisions of paragraph (g)(3) of Sec.  391.43.


0
4. Add Sec.  391.46 to read as follows:


Sec.  391.46  Physical qualification standards for an individual with 
diabetes mellitus treated with insulin for control.

    (a) Diabetes mellitus treated with insulin. An individual with 
diabetes mellitus treated with insulin for control is physically 
qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle provided:
    (1) The individual otherwise meets the physical qualification 
standards in Sec.  391.41 or has an exemption or skill performance 
evaluation certificate, if required; and
    (2) The individual has the evaluation required by paragraph (b) and 
the medical examination required by paragraph (c) of this section.
    (b) Evaluation by the treating clinician. Prior to the examination 
required by Sec.  391.45 or the expiration of a medical examiner's 
certificate, the individual must be evaluated by his or her ``treating 
clinician.'' For purposes of this section, ``treating clinician'' means 
a healthcare professional who manages, and prescribes insulin for, the 
treatment of the individual's diabetes mellitus as authorized by the 
healthcare professional's State licensing authority.
    (1) During the evaluation of the individual, the treating clinician 
must complete the Insulin-Treated Diabetes Mellitus Assessment Form, 
MCSA-5870.
    (2) Upon completion of the Insulin-Treated Diabetes Mellitus 
Assessment Form, MCSA-5870, the treating clinician must sign and date 
the Form and provide his or her full name, office address, and 
telephone number on the Form.
    (c) Medical examiner's examination. At least annually, but no later 
than 45 days after the treating clinician signs and dates the Insulin-
Treated Diabetes Mellitus Assessment Form, MCSA-5870, an individual 
with diabetes mellitus treated with insulin for control must be 
medically examined and certified by a medical examiner as physically 
qualified in accordance with Sec.  391.43 and as free of complications 
from diabetes mellitus that might impair his or her ability to operate 
a commercial motor vehicle safely.
    (1) The medical examiner must receive a completed Insulin-Treated 
Diabetes Mellitus Assessment Form, MCSA-5870, signed and dated by the 
individual's treating clinician for each required examination. This 
Form shall be treated and retained as part of the Medical Examination 
Report Form, MCSA-5875.
    (2) The medical examiner must determine whether the individual 
meets the physical qualification standards in Sec.  391.41 to operate a 
commercial motor vehicle. In making that determination, the medical 
examiner must consider the information in the Insulin-Treated Diabetes 
Mellitus Assessment Form, MCSA-5870, signed by the treating clinician 
and, utilizing independent medical judgment, apply the following 
qualification standards in determining whether the individual with 
diabetes mellitus treated with insulin for control may be certified as 
physically qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle.
    (i) The individual is not physically qualified to operate a 
commercial motor vehicle if he or she is not maintaining a stable 
insulin regimen and not properly controlling his or her diabetes 
mellitus.
    (ii) The individual is not physically qualified on a permanent 
basis to operate a commercial motor vehicle if he or she has either 
severe non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy or proliferative diabetic 
retinopathy.
    (iii) The individual is not physically qualified to operate a 
commercial motor vehicle up to the maximum 12-month period under Sec.  
391.45(e) until he or she provides the treating clinician with at least 
the preceding 3 months of electronic blood glucose self-monitoring 
records while being treated with insulin that are generated in 
accordance with paragraph (d) of this section.
    (iv) The individual who does not provide the treating clinician 
with at least the preceding 3 months of electronic blood glucose self-
monitoring records while being treated with insulin that are generated 
in accordance with paragraph (d) of this section is not physically 
qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle for more than 3 months. 
If 3 months of compliant electronic blood glucose self-monitoring 
records are then provided by the individual to the treating clinician 
and the treating clinician completes a new Insulin-Treated Diabetes 
Mellitus Assessment Form, MCSA-5870, the medical examiner may issue a 
medical examiner's certificate that is valid for up to the maximum 12-
month period allowed by Sec.  391.45(e) and paragraph (c)(iv) of this 
section.
    (d) Blood glucose self-monitoring records. Individuals with 
diabetes mellitus treated with insulin for control must self-monitor 
blood glucose in accordance with the specific treatment plan prescribed 
by the treating clinician. Such individuals must maintain blood glucose 
records measured with an electronic glucometer that stores all 
readings, that records the date and time of readings, and from which 
data can be electronically downloaded. A printout of the electronic 
blood glucose records

[[Page 47521]]

or the glucometer must be provided to the treating clinician at the 
time of any of the evaluations required by this section.
    (e) Severe hypoglycemic episodes. (1) An individual with diabetes 
mellitus treated with insulin for control who experiences a severe 
hypoglycemic episode after being certified as physically qualified to 
operate a commercial motor vehicle is prohibited from operating a 
commercial motor vehicle, and must report such occurrence to and be 
evaluated by a treating clinician as soon as is reasonably practicable. 
A severe hypoglycemic episode is one that requires the assistance of 
others, or results in loss of consciousness, seizure, or coma. The 
prohibition on operating a commercial motor vehicle continues until a 
treating clinician:
    (i) Has determined that the cause of the severe hypoglycemic 
episode has been addressed;
    (ii) Has determined that the individual is maintaining a stable 
insulin regimen and proper control of his or her diabetes mellitus; and
    (iii) Completes a new Insulin-Treated Diabetes Mellitus Assessment 
Form, MCSA-5870.
    (2) The individual must retain the Form and provide it to the 
medical examiner at the individual's next medical examination.

0
5. Amend Sec.  391.64 as follows:
0
a. Revise paragraph (a) introductory text and add paragraph (a)(3); and
0
b. Effective November 19, 2019, remove and reserve paragraph (a).
    The revision and addition read as follows:


Sec.  391.64   Grandfathering for certain drivers participating in 
vision and diabetes waiver study programs.

    (a) Until November 19, 2019, the provisions of Sec.  391.41(b)(3) 
do not apply to a driver who was a participant in good standing on 
March 31, 1996, in a waiver study program concerning the operation of 
commercial motor vehicles by insulin-controlled diabetic drivers; 
provided:
* * * * *
    (3) On November 19, 2019, the provisions of paragraph (a) of this 
section are removed, and any medical examiner's certificate issued 
under Sec.  391.43 of this part on the basis that the driver is 
qualified by operation of the provisions of 49 CFR 391.64(a), related 
to insulin-controlled diabetic drivers, is void.
* * * * *

Appendix A to Part 391 [Amended]

0
6. Remove and reserve paragraph II.C. of appendix A to part 391.

    Issued under authority delegated in 49 CFR 1.87 on September 11, 
2018.
 Raymond P. Martinez,
Administrator, FMCSA.
[FR Doc. 2018-20161 Filed 9-18-18; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-EX-P