U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy has introduced a package of new initiatives and regulatory updates for the trucking industry aimed at “removing one-size-fits-all mandates, modernizing driver resources and slashing red tape.”
The package includes US$275 million for truck parking and kills the proposal for the mandatory use of speed limiters in the U.S.
“Truckers keep America running. While the country sleeps, truckers grind through the night to help keep shelves stocked, families fed, and businesses humming. It’s a job that requires grit and dedication. But for too long Washington, DC has made work harder for truckers. That ends today. Thanks to President Trump, we’re getting Washington out of your trucks and your business,” said Duff.
The trucking industry welcomed the announcements.
“As the leading mover of the nation’s freight, the concerns of our industry not only impact the 8.5 million Americans who work throughout trucking, but they also affect the countless businesses and families we serve across the country,” said American Trucking Associations CEO Chris Spear. “A safe and strong trucking industry is critical to America’s economic growth and security, and data-driven measures like these that reduce regulatory burdens are important steps toward that end.”
And the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association was equally pleased.
“These steps not only improve the daily lives of truckers across America, but also enhance safety for everyone on the road,” said OOIDA president and CEO, Todd Spencer.
“For years, truckers have urged Washington to address the severe shortage of truck parking, eliminate the dangers posed by a national speed limiter mandate, and give drivers greater control over their hours-of-service. We thank President Trump and Secretary Duffy for listening to the men and women behind the wheel who keep America’s economy moving.”
Among other initiatives contained within the package, the US Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration will introduce new digital assets that are more user-friendly, including an update to the DataQ system to improve transparency. It also promises to eliminate 1,800 words from federal regulations to save truckers time and money and will renew its focus on double brokering.
In a separate announcement, Duffy said the feds will audit states providing commercial drivers licences to non-domiciled drivers, excluding those from Canada and Mexico.
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