The trucking industry is preparing for a significantly different regulatory landscape under a potential second term for Donald Trump compared to the recent four years of President Joe Biden’s leadership.
Industry stakeholders, including carriers, are diligently watching and advocating for changes in regulations concerning safety, labor, and emissions as the Republican president-elect settles back into office.
“I wouldn’t expect this administration to aggressively pursue increased regulations impacting our industry or others,” stated Chris Spear, President and CEO of the American Trucking Associations (ATA), in an interview with Trucking Dive.
1. ‘Speed Limiter Regulations Are Unlikely’
The ATA favors the implementation of speed limiters, while the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) opposes them. However, both groups concur that the chances of speed limiter regulations being enacted in the next four years are slim, especially since the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has already delayed the rule. OOIDA Executive Vice President Lewie Pugh commented, “Speed limiters are dead,” expressing optimism that Trump’s election will effectively end the initiative. Spear echoed this sentiment, suggesting it is unlikely to be a significant issue for the new administration.
2. California’s Emissions Rule Withdrawn
This week, California retracted its application for a waiver to enforce its Advanced Clean Fleets rule, which would have mandated a transition to zero-emission vehicles by 2036, ahead of Trump’s inauguration.
Eric Sauer, CEO of the California Trucking Association, stated that the rule was unrealistic and expressed eagerness to work collaboratively with stakeholders, including CARB and the EPA, to achieve feasible emission reductions while maintaining the supply chain. Matt Schrap from Harbor Trucking Association mentioned Elon Musk’s potential influence on the new administration, which could propel an electric vehicle agenda.
3. Emission Deadlines Under EPA Scrutiny
Eliminating the EPA’s Phase 3 greenhouse gas regulation would require substantial research, and Spear mentioned this wouldn’t occur immediately. The ATA and Truckload Carriers Association anticipate a delay in emissions deadlines to allow the trucking industry to align equipment and infrastructure with environmental objectives. David Heller, TCA’s Senior Vice President, emphasized the need for a strategic approach to supporting environmental initiatives, avoiding premature expectations that could hinder progress.
4. Focus on Independent Contractor and Labor Laws
The trucking sector has expressed support for Trump’s nominations for the Department of Transportation and EPA but has reservations about Lori Chavez-DeRemer, nominated for Secretary of Labor. The ATA has urged thorough scrutiny of her stance on independent contractor laws and the PRO Act, which has the backing of the Teamsters. Spear labeled the PRO Act as “highly offensive” to the trucking industry and noted productive discussions with the Labor Department’s transition team regarding industry concerns. OOIDA anticipates a shift away from Biden-era labor policies, with Pugh expressing hope that the new administration will be less accommodating to the ATA.
5. Autonomous Trucking Regulations on the Horizon
Trucking stakeholders are keenly observing the development of rules governing autonomous vehicles that may emerge from the FMCSA in 2025 or later. These regulations will be pivotal in shaping the future of autonomous trucking, with Spear noting the importance of clarity in this area. Furthermore, the industry is particularly interested in how Musk’s influence might affect these regulations, given Tesla’s commitment to autonomous driving technology. “Elon Musk’s role in this administration is going to be significant,” Spear asserted, emphasizing that his impact cannot be underestimated.
