Trucking Safety Reforms: New Plan Targets Industry Risks

1 month ago
4Minutes

By Ahsan Ali

State trucking associations across the country have teamed up to release a new action plan aimed at shutting down fraud, closing safety loopholes, and keeping dangerous operators off the road. The report highlights seven major weak points in the trucking system and offers solutions that rely on technology rather than new laws or regulations.

Called “The Fight for Fairness and Safety: Paving the Way for a Trucking Resurgence,” the plan focuses on steps that can be taken right now to strengthen safety and restore trust in the industry.

The task force behind the plan includes leaders from trucking associations in Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Iowa, Nevada, Pennsylvania, and Texas. They say the recommendations reflect months of research and discussion.

“We have been working on this report for several months, and we are very excited about its potential to have a positive impact on the industry,” said Brenda Neville of the Iowa Motor Truck Association.

Many of the proposed solutions center on using modern technology. These include artificial intelligence to spot suspicious activity, connected databases to prevent scams, and stronger systems to verify that drivers and carriers meet all required rules.

Mark Colson, president of the Alabama Trucking Association and chair of the task force, said the industry depends on honest companies and responsible drivers. But loopholes in current regulations allow dishonest operators to slip through.

“Bad actors and illegal operators who exploit loopholes in our regulatory systems are putting everyone at risk. This is unacceptable,” Colson said.

The task force stressed that the plan is not meant to burden honest businesses. Instead, it aims to use the information already available to target those who break the rules.

“This isn’t about adding red tape — it’s about using smart technology to level the playing field,” said John Esparza of the Texas Trucking Association. “When rule-following carriers have to compete with operators who cut every corner, everyone else loses. These reforms protect American jobs and save lives.”

The plan identifies seven key problem areas:

Commercial driver license integrity — Closing gaps in how CDLs are issued.
Motor Carrier Management Information System overhaul — Fixing the country’s troubled trucking safety data system.
Cross-border integrity — Ensuring workers entering from other countries meet strict safety standards.
Non-domiciled CDL reform — Strengthening checks for drivers licensed outside their home state.
English-language proficiency — Closing safety gaps tied to English requirements for CDL holders.
Combating trucking fraud — Addressing schemes involving brokers and carriers.
Electronic log integrity — Stopping manipulation of electronic logging devices and hours-of-service records.

The plan comes at a time when the trucking industry is under pressure from rising freight demand, aggressive lawsuits, and unfair competition from illegal operators who fake records, misuse licenses, and ignore safety rules.

“We are focused on solutions and committed to seeing them implemented,” said Tony Bradley of the Arizona Trucking Association. “By doing so, we will save lives, protect small businesses, and set the stage for a true trucking resurgence.”

The proposal builds on recent steps taken by Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, who has tightened enforcement of English-language rules, cracked down on states issuing non-domiciled CDLs, and ordered an overhaul of the ELD certification process. Duffy has also removed 3,000 noncompliant driver training providers from the federal registry.

According to the task force, these actions have already taken unsafe drivers off the road, and their recommendations would expand that progress to more problem areas.

Renee Amar of the Louisiana Motor Transport Association said her state depends on a trucking system that is consistent and safe.

“Louisiana’s freight economy can’t thrive without a system that is fair, predictable, and safe for everyone,” Amar said. “These reforms give our state a real chance to reduce costs, improve safety, and support the men and women who keep goods moving every day.”

Shannon Newton of the Arkansas Trucking Association added that the problems identified in the report are not hypothetical.

“These aren’t theoretical problems. They are real risks we see on Arkansas highways and across the nation,” Newton said. “Closing these loopholes is essential for safety, but it’s equally important for fairness. Carriers who invest in training, compliance, and integrity should not be undercut by those who cheat the system.”

Author Profile

Ahsan Ali

Ahsan Ali is a technology and business journalist who covers the latest developments in autonomous vehicles and innovative startups.

With a sharp eye for industry trends, he breaks down complex tech stories into clear, engaging insights for general readers.