
[Federal Register Volume 80, Number 11 (Friday, January 16, 2015)]
[Notices]
[Pages 2473-2479]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2015-00602]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

[Docket No. FMCSA-2014-0300]


Qualification of Drivers; Exemption Applications; Vision

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

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

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SUMMARY: FMCSA announces receipt of applications from 51 individuals 
for exemption from the vision requirement in the Federal Motor Carrier 
Safety Regulations. They are unable to meet the vision requirement in 
one eye for various reasons. The exemptions will enable these 
individuals to operate commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in interstate 
commerce without meeting the prescribed vision requirement in one eye. 
If granted, the exemptions would enable these individuals to qualify as 
drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in interstate commerce.

DATES: Comments must be received on or before February 17, 2015. All 
comments will be investigated by FMCSA. The exemptions will be issued 
the day after the comment period closes.

ADDRESSES: You may submit comments bearing the Federal Docket 
Management System (FDMS) Docket No. FMCSA-2014-0300 using any of the 
following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the on-line instructions for submitting 
comments.
     Mail: Docket Management Facility; U.S. Department of 
Transportation, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., West Building Ground Floor, 
Room W12-140, Washington, DC 20590-0001.
     Hand Delivery: West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 
1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., 
Monday through Friday, except Federal Holidays.
     Fax: 1-202-493-2251.
    Instructions: Each submission must include the Agency name and the 
docket numbers for this notice. Note that all comments received will be 
posted without change to http://www.regulations.gov, including any 
personal information provided. Please see the Privacy Act heading below 
for further information.
    Docket: For access to the docket to read background documents or 
comments, go to http://www.regulations.gov at any time or Room W12-140 
on the ground level of the West Building, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., 
Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, 
except Federal holidays. The FDMS is available 24 hours each day, 365 
days each year. If you want acknowledgment that we received your 
comments, please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope or postcard 
or print the acknowledgement page that appears after submitting 
comments on-line.
    Privacy Act: In accordance with 5 U.S.C. 553(c), DOT solicits 
comments

[[Page 2474]]

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.dot.gov/privacy.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Elaine M. Papp, R.N., Chief, Medical 
Programs Division, (202) 366-4001, fmcsamedical@dot.gov, FMCSA, 
Department of Transportation, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Room W64-224, 
Washington, DC 20590-0001. Office hours are from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., 
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. If you have questions 
regarding viewing or submitting material to the docket, contact Docket 
Services, telephone (202) 366-9826.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

I. Background

    Under 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, FMCSA may grant an exemption 
from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations for a 2-year period 
if it finds ``such exemption would likely achieve a level of safety 
that is equivalent to or greater than the level that would be achieved 
absent such exemption.'' FMCSA can renew exemptions at the end of each 
2-year period. The 51 individuals listed in this notice have each 
requested such an exemption from the vision requirement in 49 CFR 
391.41(b)(10), which applies to drivers of CMVs in interstate commerce. 
Accordingly, the Agency will evaluate the qualifications of each 
applicant to determine whether granting an exemption will achieve the 
required level of safety mandated by statute.

II. Qualifications of Applicants

David C. Berger

    Mr. Berger, 52, has had refractive amblyopia in his left eye since 
childhood. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/20, and in his left 
eye, 20/200. Following an examination in 2014, his optometrist stated, 
``I certify in my medical opinion that David Berger has sufficient 
vision to perform driving task required to operate a commercial 
vehicle.'' Mr. Berger reported that he has driven straight trucks for 
29 years, accumulating 165,300 miles. He holds a Class B CDL from 
Pennsylvania. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no crashes 
and no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Phillip J. Boes

    Mr. Boes, 66, has had amblyopia in his right eye since childhood. 
The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/200, and in his left eye, 20/
30. Following an examination in 2014, his ophthalmologist stated, ``You 
have been actively driving as a commercial truck driver for years 
without difficulty and this particular visual issue has not changed 
over the years. You are qualified in my opinion to continue driving on 
a commercial basis.'' Mr. Boes reported that he has driven tractor-
trailer combinations for 36 years, accumulating 3.6 million miles. He 
holds a Class A CDL from Minnesota. His driving record for the last 3 
years shows no crashes and no convictions for moving violations in a 
CMV.

Ronald Bostick

    Mr. Bostick, 56, has a corneal scar in his right eye due to a 
traumatic incident in childhood. The visual acuity in his right eye is 
no light perception, and in his left eye, 20/20. Following an 
examination in 2014, his optometrist stated, ``In my opinion, he does 
have sufficient vision required to perform driving tasks of a 
commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Bostick reported that he has driven straight 
trucks for 13 years, accumulating 26,000 miles. He holds an operator's 
license from South Carolina. His driving record for the last 3 years 
shows no crashes and no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Raymond L. Bradshaw

    Mr. Bradshaw, 53, has had a macular scar in his right eye since 
childhood. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/200, and in his 
left eye, 20/30. Following an examination in 2014, his optometrist 
stated, ``Px [sic] does have sufficient vision to operate a commercial 
vehicle.'' Mr. Bradshaw reported that he has driven tractor-trailer 
combinations for 16 years, accumulating 1.92 million miles. He holds a 
Class A CDL from Texas. His driving record for the last 3 years shows 
no crashes and one conviction for a moving violation in a CMV; he 
exceeded the speed limit by 14 mph.

Ricky D. Cain

    Mr. Cain, 54, has had an advanced cataract in his left eye since 
childhood. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/20, and in his left 
eye, light perception. Following an examination in 2014, his 
optometrist stated, ``Mr. Cain has excellent vision in his right eye 
and can operate a commercial vehicle and perform driving tasks.'' Mr. 
Cain reported that he has driven straight trucks for 30 years, 
accumulating 15,000 miles, and tractor-trailer combinations for 30 
years, accumulating 1.88 million miles. He holds a Class A CDL from New 
Mexico. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no crashes and no 
convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Jeffrey L. Coachman

    Mr. Coachman, 50, has had esotropia with amblyopia in his left eye 
since childhood. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/20, and in 
his left eye, 20/200. Following an examination in 2014, his 
ophthalmologist stated, ``He has had long standing Left Esotropia [sic] 
or a crossed eye with Amblyopia [sic] of 20/200 in his left eye . . . 
It is my opinion that he can safely drive and operate a commercial 
vehicle.'' Mr. Coachman reported that he has driven straight trucks for 
20 years, accumulating 500,000 miles, and tractor-trailer combinations 
for 22 years, accumulating 440,000 miles. He holds a Class AM CDL from 
New York. His driving record for the last 3 years shows one crash, to 
which he did contribute and for which he was cited, and no convictions 
for moving violations in a CMV.

Dewayne L. Cunningham

    Mr. Cunningham, 48, has aphakia and corneal scars in his left eye 
due to a traumatic incident in 1988. The visual acuity in his right eye 
is 20/15, and in his left eye, hand motion. Following an examination in 
2014, his optometrist stated, ``Mr. Cunningham does have sufficient 
vision and can operate a Commercial Vehicle. [sic]'' Mr. Cunningham 
reported that he has driven straight trucks for six years, accumulating 
180,000 miles, and tractor-trailer combinations for 9 years, 
accumulating 495,000 miles. He holds a Class AM CDL from Illinois. His 
driving record for the last 3 years shows no crashes and no convictions 
for moving violations in a CMV.

Robert W. Cushing

    Mr. Cushing, 60, has had atypical macular degeneration in his left 
eye since 2006. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/20, and in his 
left eye, 20/60. Following an examination in 2014, his ophthalmologist 
stated, ``His visual deficiency is stable, and it is being controlled 
with injections for Eylea on an as-needed basis. I believe that with 
continued care and, barring any unforeseen complications, Mr. Cushing 
should be able to perform driving tasks required to operate a 
commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Cushing reported that he has driven straight 
trucks for 38 years, accumulating 950,000 miles. He holds a Class A CDL 
from New Hampshire. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no 
crashes and no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

[[Page 2475]]

Joel K. Cutchin

    Mr. Cutchin, 51, has a prosthetic right eye due to a traumatic 
incident in 1976. The visual acuity in his right eye is no light 
perception, and in his left eye, 20/20. Following an examination in 
2014, his optometrist stated, ``His vision is certainly good and stable 
enough to operate a commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Cutchin reported that he 
has driven straight trucks for 23 years, accumulating 1.61 million 
miles. He holds an operator's license from Virginia. His driving record 
for the last 3 years shows one crash, to which he did not contribute 
and was not cited, and one conviction for a moving violation in a CMV; 
he was cited for following too closely.

Keith Dionisi

    Mr. Dionisi, 49, has glaucoma in his right eye due to a traumatic 
incident in 2000. The visual acuity in his right eye is hand motion, 
and in his left eye, 20/20. Following an examination in 2014, his 
ophthalmologist stated, ``In my medical opinion, I feel that Mr. 
Dionisi has sufficient visual acuity as well as visual field to 
continue to perform his driving tasks as a commercial driver.'' Mr. 
Dionisi reported that he has driven tractor-trailer combinations for 24 
years, accumulating 720,000 miles. He holds a Class CA CDL from 
Michigan. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no crashes and 
no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Wolfgang K. Faulkingham

    Mr. Faulkingham, 53, has had enucleation secondary to angle closure 
glaucoma in his right eye since 1999. The visual acuity in his right 
eye is no light perception, and in his left eye, 20/20. Following an 
examination in 2014, his optometrist stated, ``In my opinion, based on 
the excellent corrected visual acuity and full field of vision of the 
left eye, I feel that Mr. Faulkingham does have sufficient vision to 
perform the driving tasks required to operate a commercial vehicle.'' 
Mr. Faulkingham reported that he has driven straight trucks for 16 
years, accumulating 1.12 million miles, and tractor-trailer 
combinations for 21 years, accumulating 1.26 million miles. He holds a 
Class A CDL from Maine. His driving record for the last 3 years shows 
no crashes and no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

John D. Fortino Jr.

    Mr. Fortino, 54, has had strabismic amblyopia in his left eye since 
birth. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/20, and in his left 
eye, 20/200. Following an examination in 2014, his optometrist stated, 
``In my medical opinion John has adequate visional [sic] function to 
safely perform the driving tasks to operate a commercial vehicle.'' Mr. 
Fortino reported that he has driven straight trucks for 33 years, 
accumulating 1.98 million miles. He holds a Class BM CDL from New York. 
His driving record for the last 3 years shows 2 crashes, in which he 
contributed to and was cited for one, and did not contribute and was 
not cited for the other, and no convictions for moving violations in a 
CMV.

Ricky J. Franklin

    Mr. Franklin, 65, has had a central retinal vein occlusion in his 
right eye since 2006. The visual acuity in his right eye is light 
perception, and in his left eye, 20/20. Following an examination in 
2014, his optometrist stated, ``Rick has adequate vision to operate a 
commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Franklin reported that he has driven straight 
trucks for 48 years, accumulating 48,000 miles, and tractor-trailer 
combinations for 44 years, accumulating 22,000 miles. He holds a Class 
A CDL from Oregon. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no 
crashes and no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

James P. Gapinski

    Mr. Gapinski, 68, has had central retinal vein occlusion in his 
left eye since 2011. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/20, and 
in his left eye, 20/200. Following an examination in 2014, his 
ophthalmologist stated, ``I certify that the patient has sufficient 
vision to perform the driving tasks required to operate a commercial 
vehicle.'' Mr. Gapinski reported that he has driven tractor-trailer 
combinations for 45 years, accumulating 6.3 million miles. He holds a 
Class A CDL from Minnesota. His driving record for the last 3 years 
shows no crashes and no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Harley D. Gray

    Mr. Gray, 26, has had refractive amblyopia in his left eye since 
birth. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/20, and in his left 
eye, 20/100. Following an examination in 2014, his optometrist stated, 
``Harley has refractive amblyopia in his left eye. My medical opinion 
is that Harley is well adapted to this condition and is capable of 
doing any task presented to him.'' Mr. Gray reported that he has driven 
straight trucks for 2 years, accumulating 5,200 miles. He holds a Class 
BM CDL from Illinois. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no 
crashes and no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

David N. Groff

    Mr. Groff, 60, has complete loss of vision in his left eye due to a 
traumatic incident in childhood. The visual acuity in his right eye is 
20/20, and in his left eye, no light perception. Following an 
examination in 2014, his optometrist stated, ``Safe to operate 
Commercial Vehicle! Sufficient Vision demonstrated!'' Mr. Groff 
reported that he has driven straight trucks for 34 years, accumulating 
408,000 miles, and tractor-trailer combinations for 10 years, 
accumulating 180,000 miles. He holds a Class AM CDL from Pennsylvania. 
His driving record for the last 3 years shows no crashes and no 
convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Robert J. Hansen

    Mr. Hansen, 54, has a prosthetic left eye due to a traumatic 
incident in childhood. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/20, and 
in his left eye, no light perception. Following an examination in 2014, 
his optometrist stated, ``In my opinion, Robert Hansen has sufficient 
vision to perform all the driving tasks required to drive a commercial 
vehicle.'' Mr. Hansen reported that he has driven straight trucks for 3 
years, accumulating 24,000 miles. He holds an operator's license from 
Minnesota. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no crashes and 
no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Adrian Haro

    Mr. Haro, 59, has had amblyopia in his right eye since childhood. 
The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/200, and in his left eye, 20/
20. Following an examination in 2014, his ophthalmologist stated, ``I 
believe Mr. Haro's vision is sufficient to perform all the tasks 
necessary to operate a commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Haro reported that he 
has driven straight trucks for 5 years, accumulating 150,000 miles, and 
tractor-trailer combinations for 30 years, accumulating 2.55 million 
miles. He holds a Class A CDL from Colorado. His driving record for the 
last 3 years shows no crashes and one conviction for a moving violation 
in a CMV; he failed to yield to an emergency vehicle.

Kevin L. Himes

    Mr. Himes, 56, has had esotropia and optic nerve hypoplasia in his 
left eye since birth. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/20, and 
in his left eye, 20/300. Following an examination in 2014, his 
ophthalmologist stated, ``In my medical opinion Kevin Himes has 
sufficient central and peripheral vision

[[Page 2476]]

to operate a commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Himes reported that he has 
driven straight trucks for 37 years, accumulating 1.11 million miles, 
and tractor-trailer combinations for 37 years, accumulating 37,000 
miles. He holds a Class A CDL from Colorado. His driving record for the 
last 3 years shows no crashes and no convictions for moving violations 
in a CMV.

Ervin A. James, Jr.

    Mr. James, 62, has had a retinal detachment in his right eye since 
1970. The visual acuity in his right eye is light perception, and in 
his left eye, 20/20. Following an examination in 2014, his optometrist 
stated, ``In my medical opinion, Mr. James has stable vision and is 
able to operate a commercial vehicle safely without complications or 
restrictions.'' Mr. James reported that he has driven straight trucks 
for 33 years, accumulating 346,500 miles. He holds an operator's 
license from North Carolina. His driving record for the last 3 years 
shows no crashes and no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Jeffrey G. Kalla

    Mr. Kalla, 49, has had refractive amblyopia in his left eye since 
birth. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/20, and in his left 
eye, counting fingers. Following an examination in 2014, his 
ophthalmologist stated, ``Amblyopia OS . . . also noted are mylenated 
nerve fibers OS . . . decreased central acuity and mildly decreased 
peripheral field . . . Unlikely to interfere with his ability to safely 
operate a commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Kalla reported that he has driven 
buses for 9 years, accumulating 180,000 miles. He holds a Class C CDL 
from Nevada. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no crashes 
and no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Jackie Lee

    Mr. Lee, 48, has had a macular hole in his left eye since 2010. The 
visual acuity in his right eye is 20/20, and in his left eye, 20/400. 
Following an examination in 2014, his optometrist stated, ``In 
conclusion, it is my professional opinion that Mr. Lee has sufficient 
visual acuity and field of vision to continue operating commercial 
vehicle.'' Mr. Lee reported that he has driven straight trucks for 4 
years, accumulating 150,000 miles, and tractor-trailer combinations for 
4 years, accumulating 140,000 miles. He holds a Class A CDL from 
Florida. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no crashes and 
no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Joseph J. Lewis

    Mr. Lewis, 64, has had amblyopia in his right eye due to a 
traumatic incident in childhood. The visual acuity in his right eye is 
20/200, and in his left eye, 20/25. Following an examination in 2014, 
his ophthalmologist stated, ``The patient has sufficient vision to 
perform the driving tasks required to operate a commercial vehicle.'' 
Mr. Lewis reported that he has driven straight trucks for 1 year, 
accumulating 30,000 miles, and tractor-trailer combinations for 12 
years, accumulating 1.2 million miles. He holds a Class A CDL from 
Washington. His driving record for the last 3 years shows two crashes, 
to which he did not contribute and was not cited, and one conviction 
for a moving violation in a CMV; he disobeyed a road sign.

Keith A. Looney, Jr.

    Mr. Looney, 27, has had amblyopia in his right eye since childhood. 
The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/60, and in his left eye, 20/
20. Following an examination in 2014, his optometrist stated, ``Based 
on today's findings, November 5, 2014, Keith Looney, JR. [sic] 
displayed sufficient visual ability to operate a commercial vehicle.'' 
Mr. Looney reported that he has driven straight trucks for 6 years, 
accumulating 120,000 miles. He holds an operator's license from 
Arkansas. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no crashes and 
no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Van C. Mac

    Mr. Mac, 38, has a retinal detachment in his left eye due to a 
traumatic incident in 1999. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/
20, and in his left eye, 20/200. Following an examination in 2014, his 
ophthalmologist stated, ``His vision has been stable for the past 15 
years and there is no contraindication to operating a commercial 
vehicle.'' Mr. Mac reported that he has driven straight trucks for 15 
years, accumulating 195,000 miles. He holds an operator's license from 
Illinois. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no crashes and 
no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Michael P. McCabe

    Mr. McCabe, 56, has decreased vision and loss of central field in 
his left eye due to a traumatic incident in childhood. The visual 
acuity in his right eye is 20/20, and in his left eye, 20/400. 
Following an examination in 2014, his ophthalmologist stated, ``I 
hereby certify that, in my medical opinion, Mr. Mc Cabe [sic] has 
sufficient vision to perform driving tasks required to operate a 
commercial vehicle.'' Mr. McCabe reported that he has driven straight 
trucks for 6.5 years, accumulating 4,550 miles. He holds a chauffer's 
license from Michigan. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no 
crashes and no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Chris D. McCance

    Mr. McCance, 50, has had myopic macular degeneration in his right 
eye since 2002. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/100, and in 
his left eye, 20/20. Following an examination in 2014, his 
ophthalmologist stated, ``It is my medical opinion that he has 
sufficient vision to drive a commercial vehicle.'' Mr. McCance reported 
that he has driven straight trucks for 17 years, accumulating 425,000 
miles. He holds a Class CM CDL from Illinois. His driving record for 
the last 3 years shows no crashes and no convictions for moving 
violations in a CMV.

Michael W. McCann

    Mr. McCann, 54, has had amblyopia in his right eye since childhood. 
The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/400, and in his left eye, 20/
20. Following an examination in 2014, his optometrist stated, ``His 
present visual status is sufficient to perform driving tasks required 
to operate a commercial vehicle.'' Mr. McCann reported that he has 
driven straight trucks for 19 years, accumulating 570,000 miles. He 
holds a Class M CDL from Virginia. His driving record for the last 3 
years shows no crashes and no convictions for moving violations in a 
CMV.

O'Dell M. McKnight

    Mr. McKnight, 77, has complete loss of vision in his right eye due 
to a traumatic incident in 1959. The visual acuity in his right eye is 
no light perception, and in his left eye, 20/40. Following an 
examination in 2014, his optometrist stated, ``Certifies that in his/
her medical opinion, you have sufficient vision to perform the driving 
tasks required to operate a commercial vehicle. OK.'' Mr. McKnight 
reported that he has driven tractor-trailer combinations for 47 years, 
accumulating 2.1 million miles. He holds a Class A CDL from South 
Carolina. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no crashes and 
no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Anthony R. Melton

    Mr. Melton, 44, has had amblyopia in his left eye since childhood. 
The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/20, and in his left eye, 20/
70. Following an examination in 2014, his optometrist

[[Page 2477]]

stated, ``His visual deficiency is called amblyopia and has likely been 
present for many years . . . In my opinion Mr. Melton is capable of 
operating a commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Melton reported that he has 
driven straight trucks for 2.5 years, accumulating 4,680 miles. He 
holds a Class D CDL from South Carolina. His driving record for the 
last 3 years shows no crashes and no convictions for moving violations 
in a CMV.

Preston S. Nehring

    Mr. Nehring, 55, has had complete loss of vision due to a retinal 
vein occlusion in his left eye since 2010. The visual acuity in his 
right eye is 20/20, and in his left eye, light perception. Following an 
examination in 2014, his ophthalmologist stated, ``In my medical 
opinion, he has sufficient vision to drive a commercial vehicle using 
his right eye.'' Mr. Nehring reported that he has driven tractor-
trailer combinations for 34 years, accumulating 5.3 million miles. He 
holds a Class A CDL from Florida. His driving record for the last 3 
years shows no crashes and no convictions for moving violations in a 
CMV.

Dennis J. Oie

    Mr. Oie, 55, has had exotropia in his right eye since childhood. 
The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/400, and in his left eye, 20/
20. Following an examination in 2014, his optometrist stated, ``In my 
medical opinion, Dennis Oie has sufficient vision to perform the 
driving tasks required to operate a commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Oie 
reported that he has driven straight trucks for 30 years, accumulating 
1.5 million miles. He holds a Class A CDL from Minnesota. His driving 
record for the last 3 years shows no crashes and no convictions for 
moving violations in a CMV.

Orlan R. Ott

    Mr. Ott, 71, has had ischemic optic neuropathy in his left eye 
since 1995. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/20, and in his 
left eye, 20/50. Following an examination in 2014, his optometrist 
stated, ``In my opinion Mr. Ott has sufficient stable vision to operate 
a commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Ott reported that he has driven straight 
trucks for 50 years, accumulating 250,000 miles, and tractor-trailer 
combinations for 50 years, accumulating 375,000 miles. He holds a Class 
A CDL from Iowa. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no 
crashes and no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Rodney W. Phelps

    Mr. Phelps, 49, has had refractive amblyopia in his right eye since 
childhood. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/400, and in his 
left eye, 20/20. Following an examination in 2014, his optometrist 
stated, ``In my medical opinion, Mr. Phelp's [sic] has sufficient 
vision to perform the driving tasks required to operate a commercial 
vehicle.'' Mr. Phelps reported that he has driven straight trucks for 
22 years, accumulating 422,400 miles. He holds an operator's license 
from Kentucky. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no crashes 
and no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Leonardo Polonski

    Mr. Polonski, 61, has had high myopia and amblyopia in his right 
eye since birth. The visual acuity in his right eye is hand motion, and 
in his left eye, 20/20. Following an examination in 2014, his 
ophthalmologist stated, ``I certify that in my medical opinion, as an 
ophthalmologist and as the main provider of his eye care for the past 
15 years, that Mr. Polonski has sufficient vision to perform the 
driving tasks required to operate a commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Polonski 
reported that he has driven straight trucks for 43 years, accumulating 
946,000 miles. He holds a Class B CDL from Massachusetts. His driving 
record for the last 3 years shows no crashes and no convictions for 
moving violations in a CMV.

Don C. Powell, Jr.

    Mr. Powell, 59, has had strabismic amblyopia in his left eye since 
childhood. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/20, and in his left 
eye, 20/400. Following an examination in 2014, his ophthalmologist 
stated, ``Mr. Powell has sufficient vision to perform the driving 
requirements to operate a commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Powell reported 
that he has driven buses for 3 years, accumulating 126,000 miles. He 
holds a Class B CDL from New York. His driving record for the last 3 
years shows no crashes and no convictions for moving violations in a 
CMV.

Luis A. Ramos

    Mr. Ramos, 53, has had strabismic amblyopia and exotropia in his 
left eye since childhood. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/20, 
and in his left eye, 20/200. Following an examination in 2014, his 
optometrist stated, ``The visual deficiency that the patient has in the 
left eye is stable, and it is in my professional opinion that this 
patient would be able to perform the functions of commercial vehicle 
operation.'' Mr. Ramos reported that he has driven straight trucks for 
30 years, accumulating 1.2 million miles. He holds a Class A CDL from 
Florida. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no crashes and 
one conviction for a moving violation in a CMV; he exceeded the speed 
limit by 15 mph.

Kevin C. Rich

    Mr. Rich, 60, has had retinal vascular occlusion in his right eye 
since 2009. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/200, and in his 
left eye, 20/15. Following an examination in 2014, his optometrist 
stated, ``It is my professional opinion that he can safely operate a 
commercial vehicle with his current glasses.'' Mr. Rich reported that 
he has driven tractor-trailer combinations for 25 years, accumulating 
937,500 miles. He holds a Class A CDL from North Carolina. His driving 
record for the last 3 years shows no crashes and no convictions for 
moving violations in a CMV.

Ronald D. Schwab

    Mr. Schwab, 63, has had amblyopia in his right eye since childhood. 
The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/150, and in his left eye, 20/
20. Following an examination in 2014, his optometrist stated, ``In my 
opinion Ronald has sufficient vision to operate a commercial vehicle.'' 
Mr. Schwab reported that he has driven straight trucks for 10 years, 
accumulating 300,000 miles, and tractor-trailer combinations for 30 
years, accumulating 2.48 million miles. He holds a Class A CDL from 
Minnesota. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no crashes and 
one conviction for a moving violation in a CMV; he exceeded the speed 
limit by 15 mph.

Gary W. Shelton, Jr.

    Mr. Shelton, 41, has had a full thickness macular hole in his left 
eye since 1991. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/20, and in his 
left eye, 20/100. Following an examination in 2014, his ophthalmologist 
stated, ``Yes in my medical opinion Mr. Shelton has sufficient vision 
to drive a commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Shelton reported that he has 
driven straight trucks for 22 years, accumulating 110,000 miles, and 
tractor-trailer combinations for one year, accumulating 7,500 miles. He 
holds a Class A CDL from Florida. His driving record for the last 3 
years shows no crashes and no convictions for moving violations in a 
CMV.

Gerardo Silva

    Mr. Silva, 35, has had refractive amblyopia in his left eye since 
childhood. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/20, and in his left 
eye, 20/100.

[[Page 2478]]

Following an examination in 2014, his optometrist stated, ``It is in my 
professional opinion that Gerardo Silva meets requirements to drive a 
commercial vehicle equipped with side view mirrors on both right and 
left sides.'' Mr. Silva reported that he has driven straight trucks for 
14 years, accumulating 18,200 miles. He holds an operator's license 
from Illinois. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no crashes 
and no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

James A. Spittal

    Mr. Spittal, 57, has had ophthalmic artery occluded by calcium 
embolus in his right eye since 1991. The visual acuity in his right eye 
is no light perception, and in his left eye, 20/20. Following an 
examination in 2014, his optometrist stated, ``I certify that Jim 
Spittal has sufficient vision to perform the driving tasks required to 
operate a commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Spittal reported that he has driven 
straight trucks for 12 years, accumulating 201,600 miles, and tractor-
trailer combinations for 9 years, accumulating 900,000 miles. He holds 
a Class A CDL from Oregon. His driving record for the last 3 years 
shows no crashes and no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Paul J. Stewart

    Mr. Stewart, 40, has had amblyopia in his left eye since childhood. 
The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/20, and in his left eye, 20/
200. Following an examination in 2014, his optometrist stated, ``In my 
medical opinion, Mr. Stewart has sufficient vision and visual field 
capabilities to perform the driving tasks required to operate a 
commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Stewart reported that he has driven tractor-
trailer combinations for 17 years, accumulating 467,500 miles. He holds 
a Class A CDL from Colorado. His driving record for the last 3 years 
shows no crashes and no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

David A. Stinelli

    Mr. Stinelli, 57, has complete loss of vision in his right eye due 
to a traumatic incident in childhood. The visual acuity in his right 
eye is 20/200, and in his left eye, 20/20. Following an examination in 
2014, his optometrist stated, ``In the state of Pennsylvania the 
patient exceeds the minimal visual acuity required to operate a motor 
vehicle. Also, his peripheral vision exceeds 120 degrees in the 
horizontal meridian. It is my opinion that David can operate a 
commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Stinelli reported that he has driven straight 
trucks for 40 years, accumulating two million miles. He holds a Class B 
CDL from Pennsylvania. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no 
crashes and no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Ingrid V. Taylor

    Ms. Taylor, 49, has had optic nerve damage due to glaucoma in her 
left eye since 2009. The visual acuity in her right eye is 20/20, and 
in her left eye, 20/50. Following an examination in 2014, her 
ophthalmologist stated, ``It is my medical opinion that Ms. Taylor has 
sufficient vision to operate a commercial vehicle.'' Ms. Taylor 
reported that she has driven straight trucks for 2 years, accumulating 
11,000 miles, and tractor-trailer combinations for 14 years, 
accumulating 1.33 million miles. She holds a Class CA CDL from 
Michigan. Her driving record for the last 3 years shows one crash, to 
which she did contribute, and no convictions for moving violations in a 
CMV.

Roger A. Thein, Jr.

    Mr. Thein, 47, has had amblyopia in his right eye since birth. The 
visual acuity in his right eye is 20/70, and in his left eye, 20/20. 
Following an examination in 2014, his optometrist stated, ``I have no 
concerns of Roger Thein's ability to safely operate a commercial motor 
vehicle. His vision is stable and has been unchanged his entire life. 
It is my medical opinion that Roger Thein is safe to drive a commercial 
motor vehicle.'' Mr. Thein reported that he has driven straight trucks 
for 13 years, accumulating 78,000 miles. He holds an operator's license 
from Wisconsin. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no 
crashes and no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Russell E. Ward

    Mr. Ward, 57, has had strabismus amblyopia in his right eye since 
birth. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/400, and in his left 
eye, 20/20. Following an examination in 2014, his optometrist stated, 
``Patient Russell Ward has adequate vision to drive a 12 ft [sic] box 
truck.'' Mr. Ward reported that he has driven straight trucks for 22 
years, accumulating 528,000 miles. He holds an operator's license from 
New Hampshire. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no crashes 
and no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Bobby M. Warren

    Mr. Warren, 58, has had corneal scarring in his left eye due to a 
traumatic incident in 1979. The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/
20, and in his left eye, light perception. Following an examination in 
2014, his optometrist stated, ``Based upon my findings and medical 
expertise, I . . . hereby certify Bobby Warren to be visually able to 
safely operate a commercial motor vehicle.'' Mr. Warren reported that 
he has driven straight trucks for 30 years, accumulating 600,000 miles. 
He holds an operator's license from Kentucky. His driving record for 
the last 3 years shows no crashes and no convictions for moving 
violations in a CMV.

Steven E. Williams

    Mr. Williams, 44, has had optic nerve damage in his right eye due 
to a traumatic incident in 1991. The visual acuity in his right eye is 
no light perception, and in his left eye, 20/20. Following an 
examination in 2014, his ophthalmologist stated, ``His condition is 
stable and he has sufficient vision to perform the driving task 
required to operate a commercial vehicle.'' Mr. Williams reported that 
he has driven straight trucks for 6.5 years, accumulating 406,250 
miles, and tractor-trailer combinations for 14 years, accumulating 
945,000 miles. He holds a Class AM CDL from Georgia. His driving record 
for the last 3 years shows no crashes and no convictions for moving 
violations in a CMV.

Rex A. Wright

    Mr. Wright, 50, has had amblyopia in his left eye since childhood. 
The visual acuity in his right eye is 20/20, and in his left eye, 20/
80. Following an examination in 2014, his optometrist stated, ``It is 
my impression that his amblyopia would not interfere with Mr. Wright's 
driving at this time and I feel that his commercial truck driver's 
license should be renewed.'' Mr. Wright reported that he has driven 
straight trucks for 22 years, accumulating 52,800 miles. He holds a 
Class B CDL from Illinois. His driving record for the last 3 years 
shows no crashes and no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

Vantha Yeam

    Mr. Yeam, 46, has a dense cataract in his right eye due to a 
traumatic incident in 1990. The visual acuity in his right eye is light 
perception, and in his left eye, 20/30. Following an examination in 
2014, his optometrist stated, ``Given these results, in my opinion he 
has sufficient vision and visual fields to drive a commercial vehicle, 
however it is up to the Department of Transportation to make the final 
decision.'' Mr. Yeam reported that he has driven straight trucks for 10 
years,

[[Page 2479]]

accumulating 120,000 miles, and tractor-trailer combinations for 4 
years, accumulating 100,000 miles. He holds a Class AM CDL from 
Pennsylvania. His driving record for the last 3 years shows no crashes 
and no convictions for moving violations in a CMV.

III. Public Participation and Request for Comments

    FMCSA encourages you to participate by submitting comments and 
related materials.

Submitting Comments

    If you submit a comment, please include the docket number for this 
notice, indicate the specific section of this document to which each 
comment applies, and provide a reason for each suggestion or 
recommendation. You may submit your comments and material online or by 
fax, mail, or hand delivery, but please use only one of these means. 
FMCSA recommends that you include your name and a mailing address, an 
email address, or a phone number in the body of your document so the 
Agency can contact you if it has questions regarding your submission.
    To submit your comment online, go to http://www.regulations.gov and 
put the docket number FMCSA-2014-0300 in the ``Keyword'' box, and click 
``Search. When the new screen appears, click on ``Comment Now!'' button 
and type your comment into the text box in the following screen. Choose 
whether you are submitting your comment as an individual or on behalf 
of a third party and then submit. If you submit your comments by mail 
or hand delivery, submit them in an unbound format, no larger than 8\1/
2\ by 11 inches, suitable for copying and electronic filing. If you 
submit comments by mail and would like to know that they reached the 
facility, please enclose a stamped, self-addressed postcard or 
envelope.
    FMCSA will consider all comments and material received during the 
comment period and may change this notice based on your comments.

Viewing Comments and Documents

    To view comments, as well as documents mentioned in this preamble 
as being available in the docket, go to http://www.regulations.gov and 
insert the docket number.
    FMCSA-2014-0300 in the ``Keyword'' box and click ``Search.'' Next, 
click ``Open Docket Folder'' button and choose the document listed to 
review. If you do not have access to the Internet, you may view the 
docket online by visiting the Docket Management Facility in Room W12-
140 on the ground floor of the DOT West Building, 1200 New Jersey 
Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., e.t., 
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.

    Issued on: January 2, 2015.
Larry W. Minor,
Associate Administrator for Policy.
[FR Doc. 2015-00602 Filed 1-15-15; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-EX-P


