All eyes remain focused on California as the Golden State pushes controversial emissions regulations targeting the trucking industry. The trend that concerned owner-operators and freight carriers across the nation the most was the notion that other states would jump on the zero-emissions bandwagon. Whether you’re a clean air-now proponent or advocate for the steady progress that the freight hauling sector continues to make, a variety of states will insist on exhaust and engine upgrades heading into 2024. These are regulations truckers need to be mindfully aware of as the New Year approaches.
Advanced Clean Fleets Rule
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued California a waiver in March to implement one of the more stringent emissions regulations to date. It requires 75 percent of all Class 4-8 heavy duty trucks and 40 percent of Class 7-8 tractors purchased to be zero-emissions rated by 2035. But heading into 2024, drayage fleets that operate at ports and railroad yards can only add zero-emission vehicles starting on Jan. 1, 2024. States such as Washington, Oregon, Colorado, New Mexico, New York, New Jersey, Vermont, and Massachusetts have reportedly adopted this or similar rules. The trend is also expected to take root in North Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Maine, where lawmakers are putting forward legislation.
Advanced Clean Truck Rule
While the fleet rule applies to large fleets and corporations, the Truck Rule will land on Class 8 manufacturers. It may seem counterintuitive, but big rig makers must maintain sales goals consistent with the Fleet Rule. Tasked with reporting sales to operations with 50 or more heavy duty commercial vehicles, it appears the zero-emissions proponents are sandwiching the trucking industry with this second regulation. Although California will roll it out on Jan. 1, 2024, states such as Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, and Washington delayed its implementation until 2025. Expect others to follow suit in the coming months.
FMCSA Ups Ante on Prohibited Drivers
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has taken a determined step to prevent suspended CDL holders from operating a big rig. A new rule will go into effect on Nov. 18, 2024, that effectively suspends commercial driver’s licenses until Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse return to duty procedures have been completed. Although viewed as a procedural step, sidelined truckers may have to wade through additional bureaucracy to get back to work. Those who do not complete the return to service guidelines could see their CDL revoked.
Sources:
Leave a Comment