The DOT Agenda For This Year

Wayne Schooling • Oct 03, 2023

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) is advancing dozens of new regulations, many of which will have a major impact on motor carriers and their drivers.


The latest DOT rulemaking agenda, released on June 14, 2023, describes numerous pending actions from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and other DOT agencies.


The FMCSA is slated to publish a whopping 15 rulemaking proposals in the second half of 2023 alone. Among the rules expected to advance this year are those that would:


  • Require speed limiters for heavy trucks,
  • Update the cargo securement rules,
  • Make a variety of enhancements to the rules for electronic logging devices and the Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse,
  • Alter the safety-rating process,
  • Ease rules for stopping at railroad crossings,
  • Require a proficiency exam for new motor carriers,
  • Add an appeals process for drivers accused of refusing a drug or alcohol test, and
  • Add exemption for the transportation of passengers for recreational activities.


Most upcoming rules are in the “proposal” stage, which means motor carriers and the public will have an opportunity to review and comment on the changes before they’re finalized.


The DOT updates its rulemaking roadmap twice yearly. The forecast is not set in stone; proposed changes often encounter delays and take years to finalize.


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Remember, “Knowledge is power” (Francis Bacon 1597). And the NTA is the most knowledgeable transportation association is the US.


Content Disclaimer: Due to the constantly changing nature of government regulations, it is impossible to guarantee the total and absolute accuracy of the material contained herein or presented. NorthAmerican Transportation Association (NTA) cannot and does not assume any responsibility for omissions, errors, misprinting or ambiguity contained. NTA shall not be held liable in any degree for any loss, damage or injury caused by any such omission, error, misprinting or ambiguity present. It is made available with the understanding that NTA is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional service. If legal advice or other expert service is required, the services of such a professional should be sought.

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