July 1 brings a wave of new laws that could change life behind the wheel for truckers. Every day on the road comes with new risks.
Now, states are rolling out new laws that could affect safety, cargo theft, lawsuits and who can get a CDL.
Idaho
States are tightening the rules on who can get a CDL to drive truck.
Last fall, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration declared problems with non-domiciled CDLs a “national emergency” and a threat to public safety.
After pressure from the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association, the U.S. Department of Transportation tightened the rules. Federal officials also warned states to stop issuing non-domiciled CDLs outside federal guidelines.
Now Idaho is making its move.
Starting July 1, the state will no longer issue non-domiciled CDLs and learner’s permits.
Any truckers who want an Idaho CDL must now live in the state and complete the regular licensing process. The law also removes an exception that allowed non-residents to skip proving Idaho residency.
Rep. Clay Handy, R-Burley, said Idaho is getting out of the business of licensing drivers who don’t live there.
Critics say the change shuts out drivers with permits from other states or countries. They say those drivers have no path to an Idaho CDL unless they move there and start over.
Tennessee
Cargo thieves aren’t just stealing freight. They’re stealing someone’s paycheck.
Tennessee lawmakers are fighting back. A new law adds tough penalties aimed at organized cargo theft.
OOIDA says stronger laws are long overdue to protect truckers and the businesses that keep America’s shelves stocked.
The law defines fraudulent freight theft. That includes illegally rerouting loads, using fake identities to grab freight and unauthorized cargo transfers.
Breaking into cargo containers to steal freight is now its own crime.
The law also treats linked cargo thefts as part of one larger criminal scheme. The rule gives prosecutors stronger tools to go after organized theft rings.
Police must investigate every cargo theft report. They can’t refuse a case simply because the theft occurred outside their jurisdiction.
Sen. Pat Marsh, R-Shelbyville, said the law targets one of the fastest-growing crimes that harms truckers.
The new law takes effect July 1.
Colorado
One reckless pass can change lives forever.
Colorado is raising the price for dangerous passing.
Drivers caught crossing a solid yellow or double-yellow line in a no-passing zone will now receive twice as many license points – eight points instead of four. A mandatory $100 fine is included.
Sen. Dylan Roberts, D-Frisco, said too many deadly crashes happen because drivers ignore no-passing zones.
The Legislative Council Staff reports that over three years, 398 people were convicted and sentenced for illegal left passes.
The state is also adding clearer no-passing signs in crash-prone areas to help prevent deadly mistakes.
Georgia
Blocking a highway could now come with much bigger consequences.
Georgia has increased penalties for protesters who block roads.
What was once a misdemeanor can now become an aggravated misdemeanor.
Violators could face up to one year in jail. Fines could total up to $5,000.
Supporters say the tougher penalties are about keeping roads safe for truckers and others.
The law takes effect July 1.
Virginia
Speed cameras keep multiplying – and so do the tickets.
Virginia drivers paid millions more in camera-issued speeding tickets last year.
Now the state is putting tighter limits on how those cameras can be used.
Starting July 1, work-zone speed cameras can issue tickets only when workers are actually on the job.
New camera locations must also include a 30-day warning period.
The law requires two warning signs instead of one. Ticket revenue must be spent on traffic safety.
OOIDA argues the focus should stay on improving traffic flow and highway safety – not collecting more fines.
Mississippi
For many trucking companies, one lawsuit can threaten everything they’ve built.
Mississippi is aiming for the money behind some lawsuits.
OOIDA says outside investors are helping bankroll more trucking lawsuits.
As a result, costs are driven up for truckers, insurers and ultimately consumers.
The new law shines a light on who’s funding those cases.
If a lawsuit involves a foreign entity with a financial interest, that connection must be disclosed to the state Attorney General within 30 days.
Supporters say the law is designed to stop foreign interests from gaining access to sensitive business information through litigation funding.
The new disclosure rules take effect July 1. LL
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