The new FMCSA chief is signaling a tougher enforcement era for the trucking industry. Speaking at the Truckload Carrier Association’s annual convention in Kissimmee, Florida, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Administrator Derek D. Barrs told trucking executives that the agency will aggressively target fraud, unsafe operations, and regulatory loopholes that harm legitimate carriers.
Barrs, a former Florida Highway Patrol chief who took leadership of the agency in October, said the FMCSA must restore trust in the industry by cracking down on “bad actors.” According to Barrs, the agency plans to strengthen enforcement, overhaul outdated systems, and ensure trucking regulations protect both professional drivers and the public.
Tougher Enforcement Against Industry Fraud
One of the biggest priorities for the FMCSA chief is eliminating fraudulent operators that exploit weaknesses in the system. Barrs highlighted growing concerns about shell entities and “chameleon carriers.” These companies repeatedly shut down and reopen under new names to avoid safety violations and penalties.
To address this problem, the agency has already begun clearing problematic records from federal registries. Barrs emphasized that stronger enforcement will help legitimate carriers compete fairly while removing companies that cut corners on safety.
Industry leaders largely support this approach. Many established carriers believe stronger enforcement levels the playing field and helps rebuild trust in the trucking industry.
Crackdown on CDL Training Schools
Another major focus is the growing number of questionable commercial driver training schools, often referred to as “CDL mills.” These operations allegedly push unqualified drivers through training programs without proper instruction.
Barrs told trucking executives that the FMCSA has already removed more than 7,000 entry-level driver training providers from its official registry. He also suggested the system may require a complete reset to ensure training programs actually prepare drivers for safe operations on the road.
The goal, Barrs said, is to make sure a commercial driver’s license truly represents professional competence and verified training rather than simply a piece of paper.
Increased Scrutiny of ELD Certification
In addition to driver training oversight, the FMCSA chief announced stronger enforcement involving electronic logging devices (ELDs). These devices track hours-of-service compliance and remain mandatory for most commercial drivers.
Over the past six months, the agency has removed more than 80 ELD devices from its approved list after discovering compliance issues. Furthermore, Barrs revealed that more than 400 new certification applications failed the agency’s intensified review process.
By tightening certification standards, the FMCSA aims to prevent fraudulent or unreliable devices from entering the market.
New Safety Standards and CDL Accountability
Barrs also reinforced support for policies designed to strengthen CDL standards. For example, he highlighted enforcement of English-language proficiency rules, emphasizing that drivers must be able to read road signs and understand safety instructions.
In addition, Barrs referenced the proposed Dalilah Law, which aims to improve oversight and accountability in how CDLs are issued nationwide.
According to the FMCSA chief, stronger standards will help ensure every CDL holder meets consistent safety requirements.
Potential Flexibility in Hours-of-Service Rules
While enforcement remains a major priority, the agency is also exploring operational improvements for drivers. The FMCSA plans to launch two hours-of-service pilot programs designed to evaluate potential flexibility in current rules.
The proposed programs include:
- 14-hour clock pause: Drivers could pause their 14-hour driving window for 30 minutes to three hours.
- Sleeper berth split options: The agency will test new rest configurations such as 6/4 and 5/5 sleeper berth splits.
These pilots aim to improve driver flexibility while maintaining safety standards.
Modernizing FMCSA Systems and Regulations
Looking ahead, the FMCSA chief confirmed that the agency is pursuing nine separate regulatory initiatives targeting fraud, registration issues, and safety oversight. At the same time, the agency is working to modernize outdated technology systems that support federal trucking regulations.
Barrs acknowledged that the task ahead is large but said the agency intends to move aggressively. Ultimately, he told trucking executives that stronger enforcement and modernization will remove bad actors and allow responsible carriers to thrive.
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