Transportation Monthly Roundup - March 2023
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is now notifying motor carriers if a driver’s Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse record changes within 12 months after their last query.
Previously, such alerts were limited to 30 days following pre-employment queries. This change should help carriers identify violations occurring under another motor carrier’s drug or alcohol testing program.
An alert will be associated with a failed test or refusal, negative return-to-duty test, or a completed follow-up testing program. Remember, request a full query within 24 hours if you receive an alert.
The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) International Roadcheck is the largest targeted enforcement program of commercial vehicles in the world, and the next campaign has been scheduled for May 16-18, 2023. During the 72-hour operation, approximately 15 trucks or buses will be inspected every minute in North America.
We mentioned this topic last month, but it is worth mentioning again. This year’s blitz will have an emphasis on anti-lock braking systems (ABS) and cargo securement. Ensure that your drivers and maintenance teams are trained and prepared for the event.
With the increase in electric and hybrid vehicles, more states are looking into ways to make up for the decrease in fuel tax revenue. Carriers need to keep up with changes, since these state taxes are in addition to – and separate from – fuel taxes under the International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA).
Several U.S. jurisdictions already assess a weight-mile tax or highway use tax on motor vehicles. These taxes are based on the miles a vehicle operates in their jurisdiction. Connecticut is the most recent addition to this list of states, which also includes Kentucky, New Mexico, New York, and Oregon.
If you operate into or through any of these states, remember to obtain credentials and pay these taxes, in addition to your fuel taxes under IFTA.
On Friday March 3, 2023, the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), published a notice of proposed rulemaking. The proposed changes address a variety of issues, including packaging, hazard communication, and the incorporation by reference of certain documents. PHMSA encourages industry patrons to submit all comments, by May 2, 2023.
That’s it for this month’s roundup. Stay safe, and thanks for watching.