Trucking Regulation Changes for 2024

As a truck driver, it’s important to understand the government regulations that are in place. They can change from year to year, and new laws are always being added on federal and state levels. It’s wise to keep up with the changing regulations, so that you aren’t facing fines, suspensions or other penalties that can hurt your career. Below, we will be reviewing some of the most notable trucking regulation changes that have been enacted in 2024. In addition, we will cover some proposed trucking regulation changes that may impact drivers in the near future.

Labor Regulation & Compensation

The good news is there aren’t any new regulations that will take effect in 2024. However, there are some proposals being suggested and studies being performed. These are worth knowing about as a trucker. 

Drug Testing

The FMCSA is proposing changes to the current drug testing policies for truck drivers. One proposal would require the driver to provide oral fluid rather than urine or other common testing methods. On one hand, it may be a less intrusive experience for truckers and it helps eliminate the risk of someone cheating on a urine test. It is meant to be a safer and more accurate approach to drug testing. However, these changes are not yet in place.

Detention Pay

The FMCSA is also conducting a study related to driver compensation. This initiative was driven by a Congressional infrastructure law passed in 2021. The study will conclude in July 2024, and then regulators will determine if any changes need to be enacted. This is going along with a separate FMCSA study focused on detention time. A survey conducted by the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) Foundation showed that drivers can possibly lose up to $1,500 on a weekly basis because of uncompensated detention time. These studies could ultimately result in better financial compensation for drivers.

Sustainability & Environmental Regulations

Emissions is a hot topic in the world these days, and the trucking industry is always in the sights of lawmakers looking to push environmental regulations—especially here in California. Here are some worth understanding.

Emissions

In December 2022, the EPA ruled that stricter emissions standards should be enforced for all trucks beginning with model year 2027. The standard will be 80% higher than previous limits, which greatly impacts trucking industry. California is leading the charge with specific trucking regulations. All drayage trucks in California must have been registered in the California Air Resources Board (CARB) Online System by January 1, 2024.

Speed Control

Another FMCSA proposal in the works may require truck owners to install an engine control unit (ECU) in any truck manufactured after the year 2003. This limits the maximum speed a truck can reach to avoid speeding and safety concerns.

Competency Test

A competency test may be required for new drivers, according to another FMCSA proposal. This idea was originally suggested by the Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety in 2009. It would be an additional exam for new carriers to ensure they have proper knowledge of federal regulations and safety requirements. Should a regulation like this go into effect, America Truck Driving School is prepared to train our CDL truck driving students to be fully prepared.

California Employees vs. Contractors

One of the biggest regulation changes being enacted in 2024 is also in California. Per the AB5 labor law, any fleet must hire owner-operator drivers as employees rather than contractors. This may put a divide between trucking companies and independent carriers, and some drivers may avoid work in California for this reason. Some may prefer the benefits of being an employee compared to an independent owner-operator. In addition, the federal government is considering implementing a similar law that would have a nationwide impact.

These are just a few of the new and proposed trucking regulations for 2024. By familiarizing yourself with the laws, you can be prepared to make the most of your trucking career.