Trucking news and briefs for Thursday, April 9, 2026:
Trade groups warn biofuel rules are driving up costs
Trade associations representing the nation’s fuel retailers and truck stops are calling on the federal government to overhaul proposed biofuel tax regulations, warning that the current trajectory of the "Section 45Z" Clean Fuel Production Credit is failing both American farmers and consumers.
The 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit is a federal income tax incentive for producing low-emission, domestic transportation fuel (e.g., SAF, biodiesel, ethanol) between Jan 1, 2025, and Dec 31, 2029.
NATSO, representing truck stops and travel centers; SIGMA: America's Leading Fuel Marketers; and the National Association of Convenience Stores (NACS) filed joint public comments with the Department of the Treasury and the Internal Revenue Service this week arguing that the 45Z credit, as currently proposed, has failed to lower fuel prices or increase demand for agricultural staples like corn and soybeans. In a joint statement, the organizations urged regulators to prioritize "real-world implications" for energy supplies and consumer costs.
"Gasoline prices are one of the most visible, tangible ways consumers experience inflation in the U.S. economy," the groups stated. "Higher diesel costs also raise the price of food, medicine and everyday household goods transported by truck as motor carriers experience higher operating costs."
To fix the perceived failures of the credit, the associations are asking the Treasury to mandate transparent disclosure of credit values throughout the supply chain. This transparency, they argue, would ensure economic benefits reach the retail pump rather than being absorbed by fuel producers' margins.
Beyond regulatory changes, the groups are lobbying Congress to reinstate the Biodiesel Blenders' Tax Credit. They described the blenders' credit as a "proven approach" to stabilize retail diesel prices and bolster soybean demand—providing more immediate relief than the newer 45Z model.
"Congress has a distinct opportunity to rectify the volatility and chaos within the biofuel markets," the statement continued. "This would actually benefit American farmers and consumers."
FMCSA asks carriers to prepare for new registration system
With the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration rolling out its new Motus registration system this year, the agency is now asking motor carriers and other entities with USDOT and other operating authority numbers to take action in the FMCSA Portal.
FMCSA said Motus will be a “single, secure, and mobile-friendly online dashboard for registration actions” that is rolling out in 2026 for all users.
“To facilitate the transition into the new system, motor carriers and other registered entities should ensure their FMCSA Portal account is active, the correct Portal Company Official is listed, and business information is updated,” the agency said.
FMCSA is asking registered entities to take the following actions before Motus officially launches:
- Ensure your FMCSA Portal account is active by logging into the Portal here. If you don’t have an account, create one now.
- Verify your Portal Company Official. Ensure the correct Company Official is listed in your FMCSA Portal account, which will allow you to claim your USDOT Number in Motus and automatically populate your new Motus account with existing records, streamlining your set-up in the new system. The Portal Company Official should be the company owner or individual authorized to sign documents on behalf of the company. To claim a USDOT Number in Motus when the system launches for registrants, the Company Official must use the same Login.gov email to log into the FMCSA Portal and Motus.
- Update your company information. For a smooth transition into Motus, easily submit an online Biennial Update (MCS-150) in the Portal “Registration” tab to ensure that the most up-to-date information is on file for your business.
FMCSA has compiled a Registration Modernization Resources Hub that includes Frequently Asked Questions, fact sheets and more to help registered entities prepare for the new system.
J.B. Hunt joins Texas Stock Exchange
J.B. Hunt Transport Services (CCJ Top 250, No. 5) has been approved for dual listing on the newly established Nasdaq Texas, LLC, making the Arkansas-based carrier a cornerstone member of the regional exchange.
Nasdaq Texas was created to broaden capital access for companies headquartered or operating in Texas and the southeastern United States.
The company began trading on the regional exchange March 6, under the symbol "JBHT." The dual listing will not impact shareholders' ability to trade the stock, which will continue to maintain its primary listing on the Nasdaq Global Select Market.
J.B. Hunt maintains a massive footprint in Texas, employing 3,100 people across 100 locations. The company leverages the state’s intermodal rail systems and ports to serve more than 1,800 customers in the energy, industrial, and retail sectors.
The move highlights J.B. Hunt’s strategic focus on the South, where its integrated supply chain solutions provide critical density for North American freight.
