I think we’ve seen about as much of Kansas as we can handle. We drove from the western border to the eastern border today – some 460 miles of Kansas! Tomorrow, we drive Missouri!
I have to update everyone on my situation with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. As you know, I now have my Class A CDL and follow, to the best of my ability, the regulations of the FMCSA. Finding out exactly WHAT those regulations are is a completely different story. As I entered Wyoming yesterday, I pulled through the scales only to be told “You’re private. You don’t need to come through here. You’re not regulated by the FMCSA.”
Then I entered Colorado, passing through their scales without incident. This morning as we left Longmont, I passed through the final scales in Colorado and was asked to pull over and come inside with all my papers. I came into the office and was asked several questions by the Officer, all of which I answered honestly and openly. He handed me back my registration and paper work with these words, “I consider your use of your RV as incidental and occasional. You’re not governed by the FMCSA. Have a nice day.”
Leaving Colorado, I entered Kansas and pulled through the weigh station. I was asked to park and come inside with all my papers. As the Office examined my registration, she asked, “What’s in the trailer?” To which I responded, “Magic equipment.” She said, “What?” I said, “Magic equipment. It’s a magic show.” She said, “Show us a trick!” and we all laughed. Then she asked if I had anything in the trailer for sale. I responded, “No.” She handed me back my registration and said, “Have a nice day.” requiring nothing of me from the state of Kansas.
Now, as I see it from experience, there are Federal regulations that are supposed to be followed by the states. Each state interprets these regulations differently so HOW AM I SUPPOSED TO KNOW WHAT TO DO?
My battle on this one is not yet over. My Virginia Compliance Review is set for May 16….I’ll keep you posted.