If the Final Rule matches up with the proposed rule released in March, FMCSA will implement a core curriculum for new truckers receiving their CDL and require them to receive 30 hours of behind-the-wheel training before being issued the license. Additionally, the proposed rule outlined minimum qualifications related to instructors, testing, training vehicles and more, which would be used to establish a registry of approved trainers. More on the Entry-Level Driver Training rule can be found here.
The rule is currently under review White House’s Office of Management and Budget, where it will need approval
Other upcoming regulatory action includes a Final Rule to establish a Commercial Driver’s License Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse. The rule is expected to be published Sept. 26, according to the DOT’s report. It will establish a database of CDL holders who have failed or refused to take a drug test and requires carriers to report the failures and refusals to FMCSA. Owner-operators must also report to FMCSA the consortium or third-party drug test administrator it uses and authorize it to submit information on any of its drivers, including themselves, to the database. More on the Clearinghouse rule can be seen here.
Since August’s report was released, a proposed rule to establish speed limiting devices on trucks was published. The proposed rule didn’t specify a speed to which trucks would be governed, and the DOT is looking for public comment before a Final Rule is published in the future. The comment period for the proposed rule is open until Nov. 7. The DOT does, however, appear to be leaning toward a 60, 65 or 68 mph limit on trucks. Details on the proposed rule can be seen here.
