FMCSA Seeks Public Comment on Loomis Armored US Exemption Renewal for Welded-Shut Cab Doors
AI-generated summary for informational purposes only. Not legal advice. See the original source for the authoritative text.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is soliciting public comments on an application submitted by Loomis Armored US, LLC (Loomis) for a 5-year renewal of an existing exemption from federal motor vehicle safety standards. The exemption specifically pertains to regulations governing parts and accessories necessary for safe operation, namely the requirement for functional cab doors. Loomis is requesting permission to continue operating armored vehicles that have welded-shut cab doors — a security design choice intended to prevent forced entry — along with two additional doors located behind the cab. This configuration deviates from standard FMCSA door requirements but has been in use under a prior exemption granted to Loomis. FMCSA is legally required by statute to publish a public notice for each exemption request it receives. Following the comment period, the agency will review the application, supporting safety analyses, and all public submissions before deciding whether to grant or deny the renewal. The publication of this notice does not represent a preliminary or tentative decision in favor of approval. Stakeholders, safety advocates, and members of the public are encouraged to submit comments providing data or analysis relevant to the safety implications of allowing armored vehicles with this door configuration to continue operating on public roads.
AI-generated summary. May contain errors. Refer to official sources for legal decisions.
Key Changes
- Loomis Armored US, LLC is seeking a 5-year renewal of an existing FMCSA safety exemption, not a new exemption.
- The exemption covers the non-standard configuration of welded-shut cab doors on armored vehicles, deviating from standard FMCSA door operability requirements.
- Two additional doors behind the cab are included as part of the approved vehicle configuration under the requested exemption.
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Obligations
What this law requires
FMCSA must publish a public notice for the Loomis Armored US exemption application requesting public comments
FMCSA must establish and maintain a public comment period for stakeholders to submit data or analysis on the safety implications of the welded-shut cab door configuration
FMCSA must review the exemption application, supporting safety analyses, and all public submissions before making a decision to grant or deny the renewal
FMCSA must issue a final decision either granting or denying Loomis Armored US's 5-year exemption renewal request
Loomis Armored US must submit a renewal application demonstrating compliance with exemption requirements if seeking to continue operating armored vehicles with welded-shut cab doors