Trucking news and briefs for Monday, March 31, 2025:
Bill to repeal excise tax on trucks reintroduced
Efforts are under way once again in Congress to repeal the Federal Excise Tax (FET) that levies a 12% tax on purchases of new trucks and trailers.
The Modern, Clean, and Safe Trucks Act of 2025 was introduced in the U.S. House by a bipartisan coalition of Congressmen led by Reps. Doug LaMalfa (R-California), Chris Pappas (D-New Hampshire), Darin LaHood (R-Illinois), Salud Carbajal (D-California), and Max Miller (R-Ohio).
Earlier this week, during testimony to the House Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee, trucking leaders pointed to the FET as a pain point for the industry, noting that the tax adds an average of $22,000 to the cost of each vehicle. Measures to repeal the tax have been introduced in the last several Congressional sessions but have not passed.
"The high cost of the FET slows fleet modernization, directly impacting safety and environmental goals," said John Elliott, executive chairman of Michigan-based expeditor Load One and past chairman of the Truckload Carriers Association, adding that 60% of fleets report they would be somewhat or very likely to purchase more trucks if the FET were eliminated.
The FET began in 1917 to help finance World War I. According to the American Trucking Associations, the tax amounts to a $6 billion annual burden on the trucking industry.
“First implemented over a century ago to help finance America’s effort in World War I, the FET has become the largest excise tax on any product, adding $24,000 to the cost of each new clean-diesel tractor-trailer,” said ATA President & CEO Chris Spear. “Keeping this antiquated tax on the books imposes an enormous hardship, particularly for the small fleets, family businesses, and independent truckers who make up the overwhelming majority of trucking. Removing this burden will allow motor carriers to replace their trucks with modern, safer and cleaner equipment, which will in turn provide a boost to manufacturing jobs.”
[Related: Industry details challenges to House subcommittee]
ATA opens nominations for industry image award
The American Trucking Associations is now accepting nominations to recognize the most passionate representatives of the trucking industry’s image with the 2025 Mike Russell Trucking Industry Image Award.
“From delivering essential goods to supporting millions of families with good-paying jobs, the trucking industry has a powerful story to tell. The Mike Russell Award showcases the creativity and dedication of individuals and organizations that amplify the stories of the hardworking men and women who are driving our country forward,” said ATA Chief Operations Officer Sarah Rajtik. “This award recognizes people who go above and beyond to improve the image of trucking, while inspiring others to contribute in the future.”
ATA also announced that Great West Casualty Company is continuing their sponsorship of the 2025 Mike Russell Trucking Image Award.
The award celebrates companies, organizations and individuals who creatively generate awareness of the trucking industry. It’s presented to an individual, motor carrier, trucking organization and industry supplier who demonstrate excellence in creating a positive image for the trucking industry. This is illustrated by a safety-first approach to conducting business and professionalism.
Last year, ATA recognized the Ohio Trucking Association, Meijer Logistics LLC, and DDC Freight Process Outsourcing LLC.
The award was created in 2007 and is named in honor of Mike Russell, a trucking industry supporter and former ATA Vice President of Public Affairs. Submissions for the Mike Russell Trucking Industry Image Award are assessed by an expert, impartial panel of judges based on creativity, frequency, reach, impact, and execution.
Visit the official nomination page to learn more about the award and how to submit a nomination.
Completed nominations must be submitted to the ATA Industry Affairs Department no later than Aug. 4. The winners will be announced during ATA’s Management Conference and Exhibition scheduled for Oct. 25-28 in San Diego, California.
Wyndham Hotels launches new program for truckers
Wyndham Hotels & Resorts has launched a new program aimed at helping truck drivers.
Through the company’s new Recharge program, truckers can earn double Wyndham Rewards points on every qualified stay -- enough for up to two free nights annually -- along with Wyndham Rewards Gold level membership, which unlocks perks like a preferred room, late checkout and more.
Hotel brands under the Wyndham name include Days Inn by Wyndham, Super 8 by Wyndham, La Quinta by Wyndham and more.
“Truckers are an essential part of the workforce, and we know their time is valuable, both on the road and off,” said Angie Gadwood, Senior Vice President, Global Sales, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. “With the launch of Recharge with Wyndham, we’re helping drivers put their safety and rest first while making it easier than ever to build up points toward their next free stay -- whether that’s a weekend away with the family or an overnight pitstop as they ready for the journey ahead.”
Complementing the launch of its newest initiative, Wyndham has also teamed up with Hotels4Truckers to help drivers save on their next stay. For a limited time, drivers who book through the Hotels4Truckers website or mobile app can save 15% off the best available rate on their next qualified stay.
In addition to savings, Hotels4Truckers makes it easy to search and book over 2,000 Hotels by Wyndham that are confirmed to have trucker-friendly parking, accommodating tractor-trailers up to 75 feet long. Drivers can also take advantage of their Recharge by Wyndham benefits when making bookings through the platform. “After a long day on the road, it’s time to refuel more than just the truck,” said Dan Fuller, President and Founder, Hotels4Truckers. “With Wyndham, Hotels4Truckers members can recharge with a comfortable place to stay that doesn’t break the bank. Even better? With points, status, parking, easy bookings and more, their stays go further, making life on the road easier and my time off more rewarding.”
To take advantage of Recharge with Wyndham, drivers or their companies must first have a negotiated rate with Wyndham. Those without an account can apply for one online. Once complete, drivers can then register for Recharge with Wyndham.
