Expert Insights on DOT Compliance
In-depth analysis, regulatory updates, and practical compliance guidance from transportation attorneys and industry experts.
FMCSA and NHTSA Move to Officially Withdraw Speed Limiter Mandate for Heavy Trucks
As announced by Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy earlier this month, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) have announced the withdrawal of their long-standing proposal to mandate speed limiters on heavy commercial motor vehicles (CMVs). This decision, detailed in Federal Register notice 2025-13928 to be published on July 24, 2025, ends years of debate over requiring electronic speed governors on trucks with a
Brandon Wiseman
FMCSA to pursue additional changes to the DataQs system
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is set to publish a notice in the Federal Register on July 1, 2025, outlining proposed revisions to the DataQs system, which it originally proposed back in September of 2024 but is now refining based on public comments received. This proposal aims to improve the impartiality, timeliness, transparency, and overall fairness of the Request for Data Review (RDR) process, addressing long-standing concerns from motor carriers, drivers, and indust
Brandon Wiseman
USDOT Announces New Initiatives to Support America’s Truck Drivers in 2025
On June 27, 2025, U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) Secretary Sean Duffy unveiled a comprehensive set of initiatives, pilot programs, and regulatory updates aimed at supporting America’s truck drivers. Announced in response to the President’s Executive Order, these measures from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) focus on improving truck parking, providing regulatory relief, enhancing driver flexibility, and modernizing resources. "Truckers keep America running. Whi
Brandon Wiseman
FMCSA issues rash of proposed rules
On May 27, 2025, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) filed two finalized rules and eighteen proposed rules for public inspection in the Federal Register, set for publication on May 30, 2025. According to the agency, these updates strengthen commercial motor vehicle (CMV) safety, streamline driver qualifications, and reduce regulatory burdens while ensuring compliance with federal standards. What follows is a brief summary of each regulatory action, including effective dates f
Brandon Wiseman
Congressman Josh Brecheen Reintroduces DRIVE Act to Oppose Federal Speed Limiter Mandate
On April 10, 2025, Congressman Josh Brecheen (R-OK) reintroduced the Deregulating Restrictions on Interstate Vehicles and Eighteen-Wheelers (DRIVE) Act (H.R. 2819). This legislation aims to prevent the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) from mandating speed limiters on commercial vehicles exceeding 26,000 pounds engaged in interstate commerce. Brecheen originally introduced the DRIVE Act in May 2023, but that version of the bill stalled in committee and never advanced to a floor
Brandon Wiseman
Top 5 Legal Issues Impacting Fleets in 2025: Insights from Trucksafe LIVE! Ep. 45
The trucking industry will face significant legal and regulatory challenges in 2025, with developments that could reshape the landscape for motor carriers, brokers, and owner-operators. In the latest episode of Trucksafe LIVE!, hosts Brandon Wiseman and Jerad Childress sat down with Tyler Biddle, an attorney with Childress Law, to discuss the five most pressing legal issues impacting fleets this year. Catch the replay below or keep reading for a breakdown of the episode!Trucksafe LIVE! | Ep. 45
FMCSA Regulatory Update: Key Takeaways from the Florida Trucking Association Safety Summit
On February 20, 2025, Trucksafe president Brandon Wiseman presented an FMCSA Regulatory Update at the Florida Trucking Association’s Safety Summit in Tampa. The presentation provided an overview of recent and upcoming regulatory developments, enforcement trends, and compliance considerations for the trucking industry. Below is a summary of the key topics discussed.Download the slides from Brandon's presentation below:FMCSA Enforcement SummaryFMCSA enforcement activity remains robust, with 2.9 mi
What should fleets expect with a Republican Administration in 2025?
As the U.S. heads toward a presidential transition from a Democrat to a Republican administration in January 2025, fleet managers and industry leaders are preparing yet again for potential shifts in regulatory focus. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), in particular, plays a crucial role in shaping the trucking industry, affecting compliance, safety, and operational standards for motor carriers nationwide. And like other federal agencies, the FMCSA and its policies are heavi
Brandon Wiseman
Understanding FMCSA Changes and Compliance Trends: Insights from Jack Van Steenburg
In Episode 43 of the Trucksafe LIVE! podcast, host Brandon Wiseman discussed major FMCSA updates, the agency's operational focus, and regulatory outlook with special guest Jack Van Steenburg, former Chief Safety Officer for the FMCSA and an expert in commercial motor vehicle safety compliance. This episode provided a deep dive into upcoming changes impacting fleet operations and the trucking industry as a whole, especially in light of the 2024 U.S. election, which may lead to significant shifts
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