2018 witnessed the emergence of novel technologies and regulatory shifts in the trucking sector, with our top 10 news stories capturing a wide range of topics. From possible alterations in hours of service regulations to the legalization of marijuana and international trade agreements, we kept our readers updated throughout the year.
Top 10 Most Popular Trucking News Stories of 2018
The FMCSA has initiated a rulemaking process that could potentially reform four specific aspects of the existing hours-of-service regulations, which govern the operating hours of commercial truck drivers.
In an effort to address one of the key challenges posed by the electronic logging device mandate—finding a safe parking location for the night—the FMCSA released regulatory guidance. It also provided clarification for agricultural haulers regarding the 150-air-mile exemption.
The Western States Trucking Association plans to contest a ruling from the California Supreme Court, claiming it could effectively eliminate the use of owner-operators in the state.
The FMCSA’s Compliance, Safety, Accountability enforcement program has faced criticism for various shortcomings since its introduction in 2010. The program is now set for significant revisions based on recommendations from the National Academy of Sciences, and we highlight what changes to expect.
A proposed bill aims to permit truck drivers a daily break of up to three consecutive hours, which would not count against the 14-hour duty limit established by federal hours of service regulations.
The trucking industry finds itself in a challenging position regarding marijuana, grappling with shifting public opinion and increasingly permissive state laws on cannabis use, while the federal government still classifies marijuana as a highly dangerous illegal substance.
The EPA announced plans to commence rulemaking to further reduce nitrogen oxide emissions from diesel-powered heavy-duty trucks, with a proposed rule expected to be published in early 2020.
J.B. Hunt has reportedly reached a settlement in a class-action driver wage lawsuit for $15 million after contesting the claims for over a decade. This case has been referenced in ongoing discussions about the intersection of federal driver work regulations and state laws.
The newly announced trilateral free-trade agreement has provided relief for North American trucking operations.
Investment banker John Larkin, a veteran transportation investment research analyst, has identified key trends in freight transportation, many of which are influenced by changes in the retail supply chain.
