Kentucky Transportation Secretary issues emergency order for severe weather relief efforts

FRANKFORT, Ky., (KBSI) — To bolster relief efforts amid severe weather forecasts, Kentucky Transportation Secretary Jim Gray has issued an official order temporarily suspending certain restrictions on commercial motor carriers.

The order, effective immediately, applies to carriers engaged in debris removal, power restoration, or supplying essential fuels to affected areas. This move aims to expedite support delivery to areas expected to be impacted by tornadoes, damaging winds, large hail, and torrential rains.

“Every second matters when lives are on the line,” Secretary Gray said. “This order ensures we can act immediately to deliver support where it’s needed most.”

Under the order, commercial drivers transporting approved relief supplies are temporarily exempt from maximum driving times and weigh stations. However, carriers must comply with safety requirements and carry a copy of the order in the truck cab when operating under its authority.

The official order, No. 113978, can be viewed online.