WASHINGTON The Transportation Security Administration has issued an interim rule that allows commercial drivers who are licensed in Mexico or Canada, and who have received a card under the Free and Secure Trade (FAST) program, are eligible to transport hazardous and toxic materials in the U.S.

The interim rule takes effect Aug. 10, additional comments on the rule must be filed by Oct. 6.

When Congress passed the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU), lawmakers required that Canadian and Mexican drivers had to undergo a criminal background check like the ones U.S. drivers get for a hazardous materials endorsement. TSA determined that the FAST background check met congressional requirements.

The complete rule is in Monday's Federal Register, online at: http://a257.g.akamaitech.net/7/257/2422/01jan20061800/edocket.access.gpo.gov/2006/06-6754.htm