FMCSA is proposing 18 regulatory changes aimed at reducing administrative burdens and modernizing compliance standards for drivers and motor carriers. The proposals—published Tuesday and set for official release Friday—will be open for a 60-day public comment period.
Key Proposals:
End to CDL Self-Reporting FMCSA seeks to eliminate the requirement for commercial drivers to self-report motor vehicle violations. With states now exchanging violation data electronically, this step is deemed unnecessary.
CDL Exemptions for Military Technicians Dual-status military technicians in the Reserves or National Guard could become eligible for CDL training exemptions, helping lower training costs and expedite licensing.
Refining ‘Medical Treatment’ in Accident Reporting Clarifies that imaging like x-rays doesn’t count as medical treatment unless followed by further intervention. This could impact how certain crashes are reported.
Vehicle Inspection Report Changes FMCSA wants to scrap the mandate requiring carriers to sign and return roadside inspection forms to states—calling it an "unreasonable burden" when forms go unreviewed.
Electronic DVIR Clarification Proposal seeks to explicitly allow electronic driver vehicle inspection reports, encouraging wider digital adoption.
Scrapping ELD Manual Requirement No longer requiring electronic logging device (ELD) manuals to be physically kept in vehicles, citing no added safety benefit.
Railroad Grade Crossing Exception Expansion Would permit hazmat drivers to proceed without stopping at crossings if warning devices are present but inactive—mirroring existing traffic signal rules.
Removal of Obsolete ‘Water Carrier’ Language All outdated references to "water carriers" in FMCSA regulations would be eliminated.
Hello! I'm Jerome FreightCaviar! I’m into the politics of freight and the impact it will have worldwide. I'm always eager to learn more. Follow me on X @JeromeFreightC
President Biden attributes strengthened supply chains and reduced backlogs to his economic plan. Yet, industry insiders counter that the alleviation of bottlenecks results from a dire freight recession, not policy success.
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