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ATA Urges Duffy to Focus on Training, Language, ‘Cabotage’
The American Trucking Associations (ATA) has reached out to Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, highlighting critical issues impacting the nation's supply chain. In an April 10 letter, ATA President Chris Spear emphasized the need for enhanced enforcement and prioritization of existing resources rather than additional regulations. The ATA's main concerns are centered around three key areas: the effectiveness of entry-level driver training programs, the enforcement of English language proficiency standards, and the oversight of drivers entering the U.S. from Mexico who may engage in illegal cabotage.
Spear pointed out that while the Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) program has made strides, there is a need for further integrity checks to prevent fraudulent training providers. Reports have indicated that the current Training Provider Registry fails to adequately filter out non-compliant entities. Additionally, there are inconsistencies in the enforcement of the English proficiency requirement, which suggests a lack of clarity in current FMCSA memorandums. The ATA has urged the enforcement of these standards to be updated and rigorously applied during inspections.
The letter also raised concerns regarding B-1 visa holders who may overstay their permits to operate cabotage, violating U.S. laws and impacting legal domestic efforts. The ATA believes that collaboration between the FMCSA, the Department of Homeland Security, and law enforcement is needed to curb such illegal activities, which undermines legitimate trucking businesses.
In transportation, ensuring the right balance between enforcement and regulatory flexibility is essential, especially as the industry continues to adapt to changing dynamics. Proper training of drivers is vital for safety, and consistent enforcement of standards is necessary to maintain fair competition among carriers. Addressing these issues is critical not just for the trucking industry's stability but also for the broader economic picture, where efficient supply chain operations play a crucial role.
Spear pointed out that while the Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) program has made strides, there is a need for further integrity checks to prevent fraudulent training providers. Reports have indicated that the current Training Provider Registry fails to adequately filter out non-compliant entities. Additionally, there are inconsistencies in the enforcement of the English proficiency requirement, which suggests a lack of clarity in current FMCSA memorandums. The ATA has urged the enforcement of these standards to be updated and rigorously applied during inspections.
The letter also raised concerns regarding B-1 visa holders who may overstay their permits to operate cabotage, violating U.S. laws and impacting legal domestic efforts. The ATA believes that collaboration between the FMCSA, the Department of Homeland Security, and law enforcement is needed to curb such illegal activities, which undermines legitimate trucking businesses.
In transportation, ensuring the right balance between enforcement and regulatory flexibility is essential, especially as the industry continues to adapt to changing dynamics. Proper training of drivers is vital for safety, and consistent enforcement of standards is necessary to maintain fair competition among carriers. Addressing these issues is critical not just for the trucking industry's stability but also for the broader economic picture, where efficient supply chain operations play a crucial role.
Vehicle Guru