Recent developments in the trucking industry have seen the passing of two bills that have significant implications for trucking businesses. The U.S. Department of Labor's worker classification rule, which aimed to prevent companies from misclassifying workers as independent contractors, has been challenged by a resolution passed through the House Committee on Education and Workforce. Additionally, the Prove It Act, introduced by Rep. Brad Finstad, has passed through the House Judiciary Committee. This act aims to protect small businesses from burdensome regulations and has garnered support from the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) [2418b0ca].
The U.S. Department of Labor released a 339-page final rule in January to address the issue of worker misclassification. The rule officially took effect on March 11, but Rep. Kevin Kiley introduced a Congressional Review Act resolution to rescind the current worker classification rule. This resolution has gained traction and has the potential to overturn the Department of Labor's rule [2418b0ca].
The Prove It Act, introduced by Rep. Brad Finstad, has also made progress in Congress. This act aims to protect small businesses from excessive regulations and has garnered support from four co-sponsors. The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) has expressed its support for the Prove It Act, as it believes that it will benefit trucking businesses [2418b0ca].
In addition to these legislative developments, cargo theft in the U.S. has seen a significant increase in 2023. This poses a major concern for the trucking industry, as it highlights the need for enhanced security measures to protect valuable cargo [2418b0ca].
The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) has also taken steps to advocate for the rights of truckers. They have updated their grassroots advocacy website, FightingForTruckers.com, to provide a platform for truckers to voice their concerns and engage in advocacy efforts [2418b0ca].
Meanwhile, in Georgia, state lawmakers have endorsed legislation to repeal the state's direct-action statute that covers truck drivers. This move has implications for the legal protections available to truck drivers in the state [2418b0ca].
The Trucking Leasing Task Force has also been active in gathering feedback from truckers. They utilized the Mid-America Trucking Show as an opportunity to hear directly from truckers about predatory lease-purchases. This engagement with truckers aims to address concerns and improve leasing practices in the trucking industry [2418b0ca].
Retail groups are applauding the U.S. House of Representatives for passing the Ocean Shipping Reform Implementation Act, which aims to increase transparency in ocean shipping capacity and prices. The legislation will now move to the U.S. Senate for further consideration. The bill would ensure fair access to ocean shipping capacity, protect against unreasonable fees and retaliatory measures, increase transparency, bolster the Federal Maritime Commission's oversight responsibilities, and establish a supply chain information data standard. The Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) and the Consumer Brands Association (CBA) both welcomed the progress of the act and encouraged the Senate to follow suit. RILA Director of Supply Chain Policy Sarah Gilmore stated that the act would address long-standing issues in the ocean shipping industry and remove barriers to the movement of goods. CBA Vice President of Campaigns & Special Projects Tom Madrecki emphasized the importance of supply chain competitiveness and maritime shipping links to consumers' quality of life and the growth of the U.S. economy.
The National Direct Shipping Bill of Rights has received support from more than 100 organizations, including 93 producer businesses and twelve producer associations. The bill aims to update the 'Model Direct Shipping Bill' adopted by the National Conference of State Legislatures in 1997 and create a uniform approach to direct shipping-related laws across the nation. The set of principles includes requirements for licensing, compliance with shipping requirements, and proper package labeling. The Craft Wine Association has long advocated for the modernization of regulations to benefit independent operators. President Biden's executive order on promoting competition in the American economy and the U.S. Treasury Department's report on competition in the market for beer, wine, and spirits have set the stage for regulatory reform. The bill's supporters include wineries, distilleries, meaderies, and cideries from across the United States. [0d8f287f]
The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) has raised concerns over recommendations and advice regarding underride guards on trucks submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The NHTSA's Advisory Committee on Underride Protection was split in its report, with a slight majority being critical of the agency's efforts on safety related to underride protection. OOIDA's letter to Congressional transportation leaders criticizes the committee's work and accuses safety advocacy representatives of manipulating their numerical advantage. OOIDA warns against mandating underride equipment, particularly side underride guards, citing operational challenges and equipment damage. OOIDA suggests that NHTSA should hold off on potential new underride standards until further research, analysis, and testing is completed. In a separate news, four members of a Southeastern U.S. cargo theft ring have been sentenced to prison for multiple cargo thefts totaling more than $1.7 million. The defendants operated a cargo theft ring throughout 2019, stealing goods and selling them in Florida. [11133da7] [34878c6b]