Beginning of March, The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration put forward a rule set to spell out required minimum training standards for new entry truck drivers.
The proposed federal rule set was sent to The White House’s Office of Management and Budget which cleared the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s proposal for the in depth minimum training standards. The proposal included a set of required behind-the-wheel training time of thirty hours, establishing a registry of driver training providers and establishing certified curricula for CDL applicants.
As the process began, corporations within the industry started to voice both support and concern. The American Trucking Association voiced an opinion which was said that they “generally support the rule, but questions certain aspects of it” (ATA).
The idea of support comes from the ability that the rule will improve safety as truck drivers are required to attend a core training curriculum before they receive their CDL.
Other industry’s voice concern that the focus is centered on the required 30 hour behind-the-wheel training which will distract the performance level and safety. As truck drivers receive training, associations worry that new-entry level truck drivers will worry more on reaching the required hours instead of focusing on the instruction and practice of running a truck.
The new proposal has a chance to be heard as the agency is taking comments from the public about the new rule. The commenting period is for 90 days as the industry wants to hear everyone’s opinion. The opinion’s of everyone can make or break the new proposal. It is important to have a voice, especially if you are in the industry to determine the minimum training.
As the commenting period is open for the public, everyone should make a statement and voice an opinion within the industry.