News Digest

 

FMCSA Announces Intention to Establish a Negotiated Rulemaking Committee on Minimum Training Requirements for Entry-Level Commercial Drivers.  The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has announced through a Federal Register notice that the agency is seeking comment from commercial driver and training organizations, truck and bus associations, motor carriers, state licensing and law enforcement agencies, labor unions, safety advocacy groups, insurance companies, and the public on recommendations for membership to a negotiated rulemaking committee on minimum training requirements for entry-level commercial drivers.  

 

The Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21) directs FMCSA to establish minimum training requirements for individuals seeking to obtain an intrastate or interstate commercial driver’s license (CDL) and become a professional truck or bus operator.  

 

In August 2014, FMCSA announced by notice in the Federal Register that it had retained a neutral convener, and was exploring the possibility of proceeding with a negotiated rulemaking.  The convener interviewed stakeholders and has recommended proceeding with a negotiated rulemaking.  The convener’s report is available is here.

 

The negotiated rulemaking committee will examine minimum training requirements, including length of classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel experience, accreditation versus certification of CDL training programs and schools, curricula for passenger, property and hazardous materials carriers, instructor qualifications, as well as other areas.  

 

With the Federal Register notice, FMCSA is soliciting nominations for members of the negotiated rulemaking committee.  

 

The agency seeks to ensure a wide range of candidates are considered to achieve a balanced committee.  Persons who will be significantly affected  and believe their interests will not be represented on the proposed committee are encouraged to nominate themselves or another person.  

 

A copy of the Federal Register notice is available at: 

https://www.federalregister.gov/articles/2014/12/10/2014-28919/minimum-training-requirements-for-entry-level-driver-commercial-motor-vehicle-operators.

 

Comments will be accepted through January 9, 2015.  

 

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