House Committee Reviews Transportation Regulations
On Wednesday, the House Committee on Transportation & Infrastructure held a hearing to discuss the regulatory and administrative agenda of the Department of Transportation. The meeting was initiated by Highways and Transit Subcommittee Chairman Rick Crawford (R-AR).
Crawford emphasized that the focus was on the Department of Transportation’s agenda concerning various modal administrations under the subcommittee’s jurisdiction. He highlighted that stakeholders from across the nation have expressed concerns about the overwhelming regulatory burden imposed by the current administration since President Biden’s inauguration. An analysis by the National Association of Manufacturers indicated that federal regulations are costing the U.S. economy over $3 trillion. Despite this, the administration continues to enforce strict regulations, including those that may exceed their legal authority.
According to Crawford, the Federal Highway Administration is moving forward with a final rule to implement a greenhouse gas performance measure for state transportation departments, even lacking the legal basis to do so. He noted that this policy had previously been discussed and rejected during negotiations for the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.
Crawford also reported that two federal courts ruled earlier this year that the rule surpasses the administration’s legal authority, with one court even vacating the rule. Concerns have been raised about the administration’s unauthorized actions, suggesting that this rule could unfairly influence project selection.
Business Concerns Over Regulatory Ambiguity
Crawford pointed out that businesses are facing challenges due to vague regulations and a lack of clarity. He mentioned that the Inflation Reduction Act allocated $4.5 billion for the Biden Administration’s Buy Clean Initiative, which has led to confusion regarding material requirements between the General Services Administration and Federal Highways. He expressed concern that the administration is pushing market changes without fully considering the lifecycle of materials used in construction projects.
Additionally, he noted that some regulations impose technologies, especially in the trucking sector, that may not be ready for widespread use, which could hinder safe freight movement, pose safety risks to other road users, and raise costs for consumers. Lewie Pugh, the head of the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA), testified at the hearing, sharing his extensive experience in trucking.
Impact of Regulations on Trucking Industry
Pugh described trucking as one of the most heavily regulated industries in the United States. He explained that federal regulations impact nearly every aspect of a professional driver’s life, creating overwhelming compliance pressure, even for experienced drivers. While compliance rates are currently high, many stakeholders resist the modernization or elimination of unnecessary regulations, with some advocating for even more stringent rules that could significantly hamper operations.
Pugh highlighted that an increased liability insurance requirement, pushed by some committee members, could threaten the viability of numerous small trucking businesses. He clarified that OOIDA is not against regulation but supports sensible regulations that are backed by solid research, emphasizing the importance of enhancing driver training and safety measures.
Lastly, Pugh voiced frustrations over the Biden Administration’s regulatory actions, particularly the proposed speed limiter mandate by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), which he believes should be retracted. He criticized FMCSA’s plans to relax commercial driver’s license requirements, urging that they should focus on improving driver training instead. Pugh asserted that truckers require regulations that accurately reflect their needs and evolving industry dynamics, advocating for a more responsive approach from Congress and the Department of Transportation.
To view the complete hearing, please visit the official website.
