The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), under Secretary Sean P. Duffy, has unveiled a sweeping package of initiatives aimed at easing regulatory burdens and enhancing working conditions for truck drivers. Marketed as a “pro-trucker” agenda, the plan includes substantial funding to address truck parking shortages, halts progress on the contentious speed limiter mandate, and launches new pilot programs for more flexible hours-of-service (HOS) rules.
This announcement follows Secretary Duffy’s earlier pledge to hold “bad actors” in the industry accountable and signals a major shift in federal transportation policy—particularly under the Trump administration, which is framing this package as a response to overregulation in Washington.
$275 Million Allocated for Truck Parking
At the top of the industry’s wish list has been increased truck parking, and DOT has responded with more than $275 million in new grant funding. One major example is Florida’s upcoming $180 million investment along the I-4 corridor, which will add 917 truck parking spaces in Volusia, Seminole, and Osceola counties.
DOT also released a memo reinforcing truck parking as a national infrastructure priority under “Jason’s Law,” ensuring that federal highway programs and discretionary grants can be more easily used for parking projects.
Speed Limiter Mandate Withdrawn
One of the most contentious issues in recent years, the federal speed limiter mandate, has been withdrawn. The proposed rule would have required heavy trucks to use speed-limiting devices—a regulation long opposed by owner-operators and smaller fleets. Critics argued that speed differentials between limited and non-limited vehicles could create safety risks.
While many large carriers already voluntarily use speed limiters for safety and fuel economy, removing the mandate is a victory for those advocating for more flexibility on the road.
HOS Flexibility Pilot Programs
DOT also announced two new pilot programs designed to explore increased HOS flexibility:
- Flexible Sleeper Berth Pilot: Allows drivers to split their 10-hour rest period into 6/4 or 5/5 segments.
- Split Duty Period Pilot: Permits drivers to pause their 14-hour on-duty clock for 30 minutes to 3 hours.
Both programs aim to give drivers more control over their schedules, potentially improving safety and rest quality.
Crackdown on Unlawful Brokering & Licensing Irregularities
The package includes renewed efforts to curb illegal double brokering, with improvements to the National Consumer Complaint Database (NCCDB), which will now allow broker-related complaints. A modernization of FMCSA’s online driver tools is also in the works, including updates to the DataQs system and a revamped driver resources webpage.
Additionally, DOT has launched a nationwide audit into how states issue non-domiciled Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDLs), targeting potential misuse and ensuring that all CDL holders meet English language proficiency requirements.
Industry Reaction
Trucking groups responded positively. The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) applauded the move, highlighting how the initiatives addressed their top concerns: parking shortages, regulatory overreach, and driver autonomy.
The American Trucking Associations (ATA) also issued support, noting that reducing regulatory burdens helps strengthen the industry and supports economic growth.
Altogether, the DOT’s pro-trucker package marks a significant pivot in federal trucking policy, prioritizing driver autonomy, safety, and industry fairness.
Source:
https://www.truckinginfo.com/10243122/dot-announces-trucker-friendly-package-of-initiatives
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