Congress recently passed H.R.22 - Surface Transportation Reauthorization and Reform Act of 2015 and it has been signed by the president.

Congress recently passed H.R.22 - Surface Transportation Reauthorization and Reform Act of 2015 and it has been signed by the president. You can find out how your members of congress voted here: http://clerk.house.gov/evs/2015/roll673.xml and here: http://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_lists/roll_call_vote_cfm.cfm?congress=114&session=1&vote=00331#position Here is a summary of some of the provisions as provided by Owner Operator Independent Drivers Association: Minimum Levels of Financial Responsibility – The final bill includes language similar to what was included in the House bill establishing benchmarks that the Department of Transportation must hit before engaging in a rulemaking on raising the minimum levels of financial responsibility. The House bill required DOT to analyze how higher insurance limits would impact costs of medical care, compensation, and how often claims exceed the current minimum levels. At the end of the day, this language makes DOT slow down and examine the impact raising the levels would have on the industry. OOIDA supports this language. Changes to the F4A – The language that would have prohibited states from mandating minimum wage for drivers when the carrier pays more than the minimum wage was not included in the bill. OOIDA applauds this decision and will oppose any efforts to standardize mileage pay and continue advocating that a driver’s time should be valued. Interim Hiring Standard – The provision which created an incentive to use only carriers who have a Satisfactory rating from DOT was removed from the bill. OOIDA supports the exclusion of this language. FMCSA/CSA Reform – The Conference Report includes FMCSA and CSA reform that is favorable to our members. We will keep you informed on what exactly these changes will mean for our members. OOIDA has continuously fought for changes to the flawed CSA program, as well as been a vocal opponent to the priority given to certain rulemakings at FMCSA. Under 21 CDL Holders – The included language requires DOT to create a pilot program granting CDLs to drivers under 21. We have opposed all efforts lowering the driving age and will continue to do so. Increase to Truck Size and Weights – No provisions increasing truck size were included in the FAST Act. Every attempt at increasing truck size has failed so far. OOIDA will remain vigilant in our position advocating against heavier trucks. Predatory Towing – OOIDA applauds the expansion of states’ authority to regulate tows performed without the prior consent of an owner or operator of a motor vehicle, commonly referred to as a nonconsensual or third-party tow. Goods Movement Study – OOIDA also applauds the inclusion of a provision which requires the DOT to study the impact delays incurred during the loading and unloading process have on the industry – including safety and livelihood of drivers.