Action
Withdrawal of advance notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPRM).
Summary
FMCSA withdraws its February 17, 1999, ANPRM relating to responsibilities for the inspection, repair, and maintenance of intermodal container chassis and trailers. After reviewing the public comments received in response to the ANPRM, transcripts from three listening sessions held in November 1999, comments submitted in response to the agency's November 29, 2002, notice of intent to consider a negotiated rulemaking, and the neutral convenor's final report, the agency has determined that it would be inappropriate to move forward with a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking at this time. FMCSA believes there is insufficient data concerning the relationship between the mechanical condition of intermodal container chassis and trailers, and commercial motor vehicle accidents to quantify the extent to which the condition of container chassis or trailers contributed, in whole or in part, to accidents. Furthermore, the neutral convenor hired by the agency to interview individuals or organizations that might represent interests that are most likely to be substantially affected by a rulemaking concerning this subject, has concluded that a negotiated rulemaking process seeking to produce a set of consensus recommendations to FMCSA should not be undertaken. Therefore, no further consideration will be given to conducting a negotiated rulemaking.