Amidst the ongoing debate over mandated speed limiters on heavy-duty trucks, the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) is rallying truck drivers to voice their opposition to such regulations. Following thousands of truck drivers expressing their dissent to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), OOIDA is now urging its approximately 150,000 members to convey the same message to Congress.
“Recently, FMCSA confirmed that the next phase of its speed limiter rulemaking is expected in May,” OOIDA wrote to its members. “While the agency considers their next steps, we aren’t waiting around. That’s why OOIDA continues to press Congress to stop speed limiters through the DRIVE Act. We need you to join the fight today.”
In an email sent to its members, OOIDA advocates for support of the DRIVE Act, a legislative initiative introduced in both the House and Senate. The DRIVE Act, spearheaded by Rep. Josh Brecheen (R-Okla.) with HR3039 and Sen. Steve Daines (R-Mont.) with S2761, aims to block the FMCSA from advancing any rulemaking that mandates speed limiters on trucks.
Opponents of speed limiters, including OOIDA, cite concerns such as dangerous speed differentials, the infringement on states’ rights, and potential unintended consequences. Thousands of truck drivers echoed these apprehensions in response to the FMCSA’s notice of supplemental proposed rulemaking in 2022.
While the FMCSA is anticipated to move forward with a formal proposal in May, the DRIVE Act has gained momentum in Congress. The House version of the Act boasts 34 co-sponsors, and the Senate version has nine. OOIDA, however, emphasizes the urgency of garnering additional support for the bill.
“The legislation blocks FMCSA from creating a speed limiter rule,” OOIDA wrote. “Over 40 members of Congress have voiced their support for the DRIVE Act so far, but we need more before FMCSA announces the next proposal in May.”
Truck drivers are actively encouraged to engage with their lawmakers through OOIDA’s Fighting For Truckers website, providing a platform for their voices to be heard on this critical issue. Additionally, OOIDA has sent a letter to House Republican offices, underscoring the pressing need to expedite the passage of the DRIVE Act. As the debate intensifies, truckers play a pivotal role in shaping the legislative landscape and influencing decisions that directly impact their industry.
Source: Land Line
