The recognition was presented by outgoing TCA Chairman Karen Smerchek during the association’s annual convention, held in Orlando from February 28 through March 3.

A Recognition Built on Industry Impact

The Chairman’s Choice Award is one of TCA’s more personal honors. Selected directly by the outgoing chairman, it recognizes individuals who have made a meaningful impact on the truckload sector through leadership, service, and ongoing support of industry initiatives.

For fleets, drivers, and stakeholders alike, awards like this highlight the people helping shape the direction of trucking behind the scenes. In Culp’s case, that influence spans both company leadership and industry-wide involvement.

Leadership That Extends Beyond the Office

Culp, who previously served as TCA chairman from 2024 to 2025, has played a consistent role in supporting the association’s programs and priorities. His involvement has helped strengthen participation and keep key initiatives moving forward, particularly through active communication and engagement at the company level.

His contributions haven’t stopped at internal efforts. Culp has also been involved in broader advocacy work, including support for TCA’s Elite Fleet program and ongoing discussions around a gallon-based user fee. That work has included multiple trips to Washington to meet directly with policymakers, reinforcing the industry’s voice on critical issues.

At the same time, he balanced additional leadership responsibilities, including a two-year term as chairman of the Arkansas Trucking Association.

Recognition Rooted in Character

For Smerchek, the decision to recognize Culp came down to more than a résumé of accomplishments.

“Narrowing this down to one person was not easy, but this year’s recipient truly embodies the spirit of TCA,” said outgoing chair Karen Smerchek.

“I met him in 2018, and I immediately saw his passion for the industry,” she continued. “What impressed me even more was his humility; someone with his knowledge and experience who never seeks the spotlight, never boasts, and is always willing to step in and help.”

She also pointed to his willingness to take on additional responsibility when needed, including stepping up during a leadership transition period.

“He also stepped up in a big way when I delayed my chairmanship for a year … and doing all of this, while serving a two-year term as the chairman of the Arkansas Trucking Association,” she concluded.

Why This Matters for the Industry

For drivers and fleets watching from the ground level, recognition like this reinforces what strong leadership looks like in trucking. It’s not just about running a successful operation. It’s about supporting the broader industry, advocating for practical policy, and contributing to programs that improve conditions across the board.

As the trucking landscape continues to evolve, leaders who stay engaged, accessible, and committed to progress play a critical role in keeping the industry moving forward.

The post Maverick Transportation’s John Culp Recognized with 2026 TCA Chairman’s Choice Award appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

In a notice of proposed rulemaking published Friday, Jan. 9, FMCSA proposed extending the length of automatic emergency relief triggered by a federal emergency declaration from 14 days to 30 days.

The proposal follows multiple petitions asking the agency to reconsider changes made in a final rule issued in October 2023. That earlier rule significantly narrowed both the duration and scope of regulatory relief available during emergencies.

Why FMCSA Is Reconsidering the Timeline

Under the current rule, when an emergency is declared, eligible motor carriers and drivers automatically receive hours-of-service relief for 14 days. After that window closes, carriers must request extensions if emergency conditions persist.

Before the 2023 rule change, emergency declarations triggered a 30-day automatic exemption from all regulations listed in 49 CFR Parts 390 through 399. For local emergencies lasting five days or fewer, the exemption applied only to hours-of-service rules under sections 395.3 and 395.5.

Several organizations challenged the shortened timeline, arguing that 14 days often does not reflect the reality of major emergencies.

OOIDA, the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance, the Montana Department of Transportation, and the National Propane Gas Association were among those who submitted petitions.

“In our experience, the current 30-day period provides sufficient time to deliver emergency assistance without negatively impacting safety,” OOIDA wrote in 2023. “We are unclear on exactly why FMCSA is proposing these regulatory changes at this time.”

FMCSA acknowledged that most petitioners focused on the time limitation, stating the 14-day window was too short to address large-scale or prolonged events.

Recent Emergencies Highlight the Challenge

FMCSA cited several real-world situations where relief extended well beyond two weeks, including the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, wildfires across the western United States, and hurricanes that impacted North Carolina in 2024.

In those cases, freight movement tied to recovery efforts continued long after the initial emergency declaration period expired.

The agency also noted the administrative burden associated with extension requests. Submitting, reviewing, and approving emergency extensions creates added costs and delays for both carriers and regulators during already strained conditions.

What the Proposed Change Would Do

If finalized, the rule would restore a 30-day automatic relief period when a federal emergency declaration is issued. FMCSA has not proposed expanding the scope of the exemptions beyond what is currently allowed, but the longer window would reduce the need for repeated extension requests during prolonged emergencies.

FMCSA notified petitioners in January 2025 that it would formally reconsider the 14-day limit, leading to the proposal released this month.

Current Emergency Declarations Remain Active

As of Jan. 9, emergency declarations were active in several states, including New York, Washington, Connecticut, Maine, and Oregon. FMCSA regional emergency declarations were also in effect in other states dealing with fuel shortages and severe winter weather.

How to Submit Comments

FMCSA is accepting public comments on the proposed rule change through March 10. Stakeholders can submit feedback by visiting Regulations.gov and searching for Docket No. FMCSA-2025-0124.

The outcome of this proposal could shape how effectively the trucking industry responds to future emergencies, particularly those that stretch beyond short-term disruptions.

Source: Land Line Media

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Utley is the vice president of government services for Bennett Family of Companies and vice chairman of ATA’s Government Freight Conference. Before trucking, he dedicated nearly 30 years to the U.S. Army, where he learned the kind of discipline and teamwork that later carried over into his work at Bennett.

“Jim served in the Army for nearly three decades, and following his extraordinary service to our nation, he brought his skill, dedication, and fortitude to trucking,” said Ed Gilroy, ATA chief advocacy and public affairs officer. “Jim leads by example, encouraging his colleagues and inspiring the next generation of truckers. His contributions to our advocacy efforts have been indispensable to achieving results that benefit our entire industry.”

At Bennett, Utley’s work centers on improving how carriers interact with the Department of Defense, especially around base access for drivers. He’s also focused on policies that treat drivers with respect and make the movement of sensitive freight safer for everyone on the road.

The ATA noted that Utley played a key role in helping move forward the Transportation Security Screening Modernization Act, which aims to fix the outdated credentialing system that has frustrated truckers for years.

Beyond policy, Utley has been a strong voice for the independent contractor model, and he supports programs that bring new people into the industry through ATA’s Women In Motion and LEAD ATA initiatives.

The Cathy Evans Highway to Victory Award is named after longtime ATA lobbyist Cathy Evans and is presented annually to a member who’s made a lasting mark on the Federation’s advocacy work at both state and federal levels.

Previous honorees include well-known industry leaders such as Stormie Janzen of Total Transportation of Mississippi, John Chipman Jr. of Chipman Relocation & Logistics, Mike Card of Combined Transport Inc., Robert Low of Prime Inc., Randy Guillot of Triple G Express, Robert Haag of Perfect Transportation, Greer Woodruff of JB Hunt, Derek Leathers of Werner Enterprises, and Brian Parke of Maine Motor Transport Association.

For Utley, the award reflects not just personal achievement but a reminder of what keeps the industry strong: people who care enough to push for better roads, smarter policies, and more respect for professional drivers.

Image Source: ATA

Other Source: The Trucker

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This annual gathering puts industry knowledge and experience at the center of major discussions about trucking policies and priorities. By participating, you help ensure the truckload segment remains active in shaping the legislative and regulatory landscape.

Mark Your Calendar: September 29–30, 2025

These Fall Business Meetings give TCA members and guests the chance to connect directly with key decision-makers and peers. Attendees learn about industry developments, the latest trends, and policy updates affecting daily operations and the sector’s future.

Whether this is your first TCA event or you’ve attended for years, your involvement helps drive actionable change that supports professional drivers, carriers, and everyone in the truckload industry.

What’s on the Agenda at the Fall Business Meetings

On September 29, the focus will turn to committee meetings and guest presentations that dive deep into the hot topics for truckload carriers. You’ll get updates and insights on:

• Creative solutions for driver recruitment and retention

• New ideas to improve truck parking availability

• Legislative news on zero-emission vehicles

• Progress on drug testing regulations

• Initiatives for young drivers and workforce development

• Funding proposals and highway safety measures

• Programs to build a stronger image for trucking and grow TCA membership

Everyone is invited—committee membership is not required to attend meetings or participate in discussions.

Why the Call on Washington Matters

September 30 is all about advocating for our industry on Capitol Hill. TCA’s Call on Washington allows members to meet one-on-one with lawmakers, staff, and officials who influence the rules and regulations governing trucking.

Participants address current topics such as:

• Size and weight guidelines for trucks

• Evolving classification rules for independent contractors

• Federal Excise Tax (FET) updates and highway funding

• Solutions for ongoing truck parking shortages

This is a valuable moment to have your perspective heard at the highest levels, influence legislative processes, and represent the interests of carriers nationwide.

Please note: The Call on Washington portion is open exclusively to TCA members.

Register and Make a Difference

Secure your spot for these meaningful industry events at tcafallcall.com. Registration gives you access to key meetings, learning opportunities, and a direct path to advocating for the future of trucking.

Image Source: TCA
Source: The Trucker

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A Gathering for the Industry’s Movers and Shapers

“Get ready to be inspired by the best in the business at trucking’s foremost event for policy and strategy,” said ATA President and CEO Chris Spear.

As new leadership takes shape in Washington, D.C., MCE offers a timely forum to reflect on the industry’s accomplishments and to strategize how to keep advancing. The conference draws top minds and decision-makers from across the sector, making it the ideal venue to align on priorities and set the tone for what’s ahead.

“At MCE, our members will chart the course to a bright future,” Spear added.

This Year’s Theme: Unity in a Time of Change

With the theme “A United Front Driving Policy in a New Era,” this year’s MCE emphasizes the power of collaboration. As the trucking industry navigates legislative shifts and rapid technological advancement, the event will spotlight the strategies that unite stakeholders in pursuit of progress.

From the moment you arrive in San Diego, you’ll find yourself immersed in a dynamic environment where big ideas take center stage—and where the conversations help drive real change.

What You’ll Gain from Attending MCE 2025

Build Powerful Connections
Network with fellow professionals, industry veterans, and business leaders in one of the most engaged trucking communities in the country.

Tackle Industry Challenges Together
Participate in interactive workshops and sessions that promote real-time collaboration and forward-thinking problem-solving.

Hear from Leading Voices
Keynote presentations and expert panels will deliver critical updates, policy insights, and strategic takeaways you can apply right away.

Discover the Latest Innovations
Explore the expansive MCE Exhibit Hall, where cutting-edge equipment, tools, and tech are showcased to help businesses operate smarter and more efficiently.

Celebrate the Industry
End your conference experience on a high note with exciting entertainment and social events designed to foster connection and community.

Hear Why Leaders Keep Coming Back

“MCE is a can’t-miss event for every professional engaged in the trucking industry,” said ATA Chairman Dennis Dellinger.

He continued, “The insightful updates from experts, the illuminating networking conversations, and the innovations showcased on the exhibit floor provide unparalleled opportunities to advance careers and businesses. I encourage my peers to take advantage of all that MCE has to offer, and I look forward to reconnecting in San Diego.”

Don’t Miss This Opportunity

If you’re serious about staying ahead in trucking, this is the event that belongs on your calendar. From navigating new policy landscapes to exploring emerging technologies, the 2025 ATA Management Conference and Exhibition is where industry progress begins.

Register now at mce.trucking.org and be part of the movement shaping the future of trucking.

Source: The Trucker
Image Source: ATA

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OOIDA is now backing the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) ongoing initiative to identify and eliminate excessive and costly regulations. This effort aims to streamline processes and enhance safety without imposing unnecessary burdens on truck drivers.

DOT’s Deregulatory Process

The DOT opened a 30-day public comment period in April, inviting feedback on regulations that can be modified, repealed, or amended. Nearly 900 responses poured in, with truck drivers voicing their concerns and calling for more operational freedom to perform their jobs safely and efficiently.

“These ineffective rules have driven up costs for small-business truckers, pushing many safe and experienced operators out of the industry,” wrote OOIDA President Todd Spencer in the Association’s 17-page official response.

The submission outlined several changes aimed at reducing regulatory overreach. Topics included speed limiters, hours of service, English proficiency, and broker transparency.

Key Issues OOIDA Addressed

Speed Limiter Mandate Concerns

OOIDA strongly opposes a potential federal speed-limiter mandate for commercial vehicles. Although speed limiter proposals were introduced in 2016 and again in 2022, the regulation has yet to be finalized.

“Professional truck drivers strongly object to any speed limiter mandate,” OOIDA wrote. Association leaders argue that speed limiters increase stress, fatigue, and safety risks by creating dangerous speed differentials. They also highlight concerns about limiting drivers’ ability to maneuver safely in emergencies.

OOIDA believes states should retain authority over speed regulations, as Congress deliberately handed these responsibilities to states in 1995. The Association urges DOT to withdraw the rulemaking effort entirely.

Reforming Hours of Service Rules

OOIDA’s advocacy led to some flexibility improvements in hours-of-service (HOS) regulations in 2020, but the group continues to push for further changes to account for driver needs and safety.

“HOS rules are overly complex and fail to align with the physical capabilities of individual drivers,” OOIDA explained. The Association suggests allowing drivers to “pause” their clock and adopt expanded sleeper-berth options, such as 6/4 or 5/5 splits, to support rest and alertness better. Operators argue such flexibility would enable safer and more practical scheduling.

Ensuring English Proficiency for Drivers

OOIDA is calling for stricter enforcement of English proficiency requirements for commercial drivers. The Association says that understanding signage, communicating with law enforcement, and managing emergencies are critical for safety.

“The ability to understand and react to road signs is critical for public and operational safety,” OOIDA emphasized. The Association welcomed President Donald Trump’s executive order to resume enforcement of English proficiency regulations and urged more industry attention to this area.

Increasing Broker Transparency

Broker transparency has long been a concern in the trucking community. Current regulations require brokers to provide carrier transaction records, but enforcement is inconsistent.

OOIDA petitioned the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) for stricter transparency measures, proposing a rule that obligates brokers to share transaction records electronically within 48 hours.

“If implemented properly, this rulemaking will contribute to a more ethical, fair, and efficient freight brokerage marketplace,” OOIDA wrote.

Other Recommendations for Reform

Beyond the highlighted issues, OOIDA made additional calls for action, including repealing the electronic logging device (ELD) mandate and phasing out the Unified Carrier Registration (UCR) system.

The ELD rule, which took effect in 2017, costs an estimated $1.8 billion annually. OOIDA contends it has shown no measurable impact on highway safety. Similarly, the Association criticized the UCR system as an unnecessary and wasteful expense.

Looking Ahead

While the official public comment period closed on May 5, the DOT continues to accept comments via email at Transportation.RegulatoryInfo@dot.gov under the subject line “Regulatory Reform RFI.”

OOIDA remains hopeful that this movement reflects a broader commitment by the DOT to actively engage with truck drivers and prioritize their expertise and feedback.

“Moving forward, DOT can best identify meaningful regulatory reforms by listening to America’s truckers, attending industry events, and holding public discussions on vital safety issues,” OOIDA wrote.

The DOT could significantly enhance safety, working conditions, and operational efficiency for the nation’s truckers by pursuing these recommended regulatory changes.

Source: Land Line

The post OOIDA Proposes DOT Regulatory Reforms to Improve Safety and Reduce Costs: Addressing Regulations in the Trucking Industry appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

A Shared Struggle for Trucking Companies

“Directly or indirectly, virtually all trucking companies are victims of cargo theft. Either they are victims of crime, or they are spending so much money to defend against being targeted that they are still victims,” said Costello. “ATA looks forward to working with committee members to safeguard the entire supply chain, including trucking, to protect businesses and their employees as well as lower costs for consumers.”

Congress has recurringly focused on cargo theft, with ATA stepping in as an essential voice twice in under two months.

The Staggering Cost of Cargo Theft

According to ATA data, freight-related crimes cost the supply chain up to $35 billion annually, indirectly driving up consumer prices. Since early 2021, “strategic theft” has skyrocketed by 1,500%, with the average value of stolen shipments exceeding $200,000 per incident.

Cargo theft takes various forms, from breaking into parked tractor-trailers and double-brokering fraud to cyberattacks and long-term pilfering. Criminals increasingly use advanced digital tactics to outwit carriers.

During testimony earlier this year, Adam Blanchard, an ATA member, shared a firsthand account of cargo theft. Blanchard’s company fell victim to identity theft and related fraud. Despite reporting the crimes to insurance providers, local law enforcement agencies, the FBI, and the Department of Homeland Security, little actionable support was provided.

A Complex Crime Demanding Federal Action

“Due to the complex, multi-jurisdictional nature of these crimes, only the federal government has the resources and technical capabilities to take down organized theft groups,” ATA stated in a press release.

Recognizing this challenge, ATA recently endorsed the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act, designed to establish a unified federal response to these transnational crimes. ATA emphasized that organized cargo theft rings often operate across state and national boundaries, which demands a cohesive, large-scale federal strategy.

As part of its 2024 agenda, ATA has also prioritized security measures, including the fight against cargo theft and cybercrime, as essential pillars supporting the trucking industry and protecting businesses and consumers.

Cargo theft is no longer just a trucking issue; it’s a supply chain-wide crisis with profound national economic implications. Addressing this threat is crucial for businesses and lawmakers alike to ensure a more stable, secure, and cost-efficient flow of goods.

Source: The Trucker
Image Source: ATA

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2025 ATRI Research Focus Areas

Here’s an overview of ATRI’s newly approved research priorities for 2025, showcasing how the organization is targeting better data and solutions for a range of industry concerns:

Exploring the Impact of Rising Insurance Costs and Self-Insurance Trends

Previous ATRI research has shed light on how escalating insurance premiums affect motor carriers, prompting them to lower coverage levels, increase deductibles, and implement more safety tech. The upcoming research will expand on these findings by analyzing current auto insurance market trends and examining the role of alternative options like insurance captives and self-insurance models.

Evaluating Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) Effectiveness on Safety

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration introduced the Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) mandate in 2022, requiring structured instructional programs for new drivers before earning their Commercial Driver’s License. While the ELDT aims to enhance safety, some questions linger about the actual effectiveness of these training initiatives. Building on earlier research, ATRI will now utilize comprehensive safety data and statistical modeling to evaluate how well the ELDT achieves its intended safety improvements.

Analyzing Safety Impacts of Advanced In-Cab Monitoring

Technology for in-cab monitoring has progressed significantly, with many fleets using systems like driver-facing cameras to gain insights into on-road driver behavior. ATRI’s earlier research focused on understanding drivers’ perspectives on such technologies, but this new project will take it a step further by collecting confidential in-cab data. The goal? To identify clear statistical links between monitoring technologies and reductions in safety incidents. The study will also outline best practices for carrier and driver collaboration in using in-cab data effectively to enhance safety.

Maximizing the Potential of Telematics Data

Telematics technology has revolutionized the trucking industry by offering advanced tools for fleet management, asset tracking, and driver communication. Despite this, many carriers have yet to fully tap into the expansive possibilities of modern telematics, such as monitoring vehicle performance or improving regulatory compliance. ATRI’s new research will compile actionable resources and strategies to help carriers better utilize telematics data and enhance operational performance, regardless of their size.

Understanding the Scope of Cabotage Violations in the U.S.

Under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), specific guidelines restrict non-U.S. domiciled carriers to limited operations, such as delivering goods from Mexico or Canada to U.S.-bound shippers. However, “cabotage violations” occur when these carriers perform unauthorized point-to-point deliveries within the U.S., creating unfair competition and threatening jobs in the domestic trucking industry. This study will provide critical insights into the prevalence and consequences of such violations, offering data to drive informed policy decisions.

Why ATRI’s Research Agenda Matters

ATRI aims to drive advancements that will benefit the entire trucking ecosystem by tackling these topics. Whether it’s addressing growing insurance concerns, evaluating the success of driver training programs, or helping carriers harness the potential of telematics, these priorities highlight ATRI’s commitment to finding actionable solutions for real-world challenges.

Source: Truckers News
Image Source: FlowBelow

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