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DOT Wants Help Cleaning Up Regulations?

-Lombard

On Thursday April 3rd a notice was published to the Federal Register calling for written comments and information in an effort to reduce regulation and control regulatory costs.

“The Department of Transportation seeks comments and information to assist DOT in identifying existing regulations, guidance, paperwork requirements and other regulatory obligations that can be modified or repealed, consistent with law, to ensure that DOT administrative actions do not undermine the national interest and that DOT achieves meaningful burden reduction while continuing to meet statutory obligations and ensure the safety of the U.S. transportation system,” the notice stated.

Back on January 31st, President Trump issued an executive order requiring at least 10 regulations be identified for elimination before the addition of any new regulations. While I was at the Mid America Trucking Show, the FMCSA alluded to the admin’s goals with removing regulations, but didn’t really go into any details. Comments can be made publicly by going to Regulations.gov and entering Docket Number DOT-OST-2025-0026.

Off the bat I can think of three things that could be abolished overnight and would be a net benefit to the trucking industry. The first of which would be the ELD Mandate. Statistics have shown since the implementation of the ELD mandate, accidents and fatalities have gone up. I was working at a warehouse in 2017, and this was one of the first times I ever heard of truck parking beginning to become a problem, because now “everyone would be on the same clock.”

The next two are unnecessary expenses on Motor Carriers. DOT should stop enforcing the International Fuel Tax Agreement, or IFTA. Another cash grab considering diesel purchased by drivers is already taxed, nor do I find it justifiable that small trucking companies should be having money go to Canada. Next we could eliminate Form 2290 the Heavy Highway Vehicle Use Tax, or HVUT. Another cash grab from the government, considering Commercial Vehicles are not on the road for pleasure, but out of necessity. I could maybe see a reason for it for a heavy weight vehicle that was Not For Hire, but for CMV’s actively hauling freight, it’s the definition of “Highway Robbery.”

What are some regulations you think can go away? Respond to this e-mail to let me know!

I want to hear from you! For Driver Submissions, questions, and comments contact me at: [email protected] or Text me directly at 423-275-2444

DOT Compliance Corner

by, Santiago Talamantez

The 2025 CVSA International Road Check is just over a month away, scheduled for May 13 – 15. As always, there are two areas of focus for the inspection process with this year being false logs and tires. When it comes to tires, most drivers are aware to check for the obvious defects during pre and post trip inspections such as cuts, tread wear, flat, and exposed ply. However, the one area I want to emphasize is the inflation level. Generally speaking, the standard answer for proper inflation is around 100 psi. When you check the sidewalls of your tires you will see two tire weight ratings along with the recommended PSI level for the max weight rating. Keep in mind, that number is simply informing you that in order for that tire to carry that max amount, it would need to be inflated at the PSI level number displayed to safely carry that weight. In the 7 years I worked the road, I do not remember regularly finding overinflated tires, it was always normally underinflated violations.

There are two factors that lead to these violations. Number one, drivers do not take the time to properly check inflation levels; not just during a pre-trip but throughout the day. Now that it has warmed back up, drivers should be checking inflation levels a few times a day as the elevated temperature leads to increased tire pressure. Number two, is the method used to check tires which is normally kicking it or using one of them batons they sell at the truck stops. The proper and accurate way to check is using a tire pressure gauge!! I know it is a pain and a little more time consuming, but it’ll save you in more ways than one.

Here's something important to remember, that I’m 100% sure most drivers don’t think about when it comes to properly inflated tires. It’s not just to prevent the roadside inspection violation, way more importantly is the fact that when you have properly inflated tires, you are getting the most even tread friction on the road during braking action! Drivers know that it takes a tractor-trailer combination way more distance to come to a stop than a four-wheeled vehicle and not having properly inflated tires could potentially add to that distance, simply for the fact that you do not have the entire surface of the tire in contact with the roadway. I can tell you as a crash reconstruction team member, that it was not common to find skid marks with semi’s that had a narrower pattern, which was an indicator that the tire may not have been properly inflated at the time the driver applied the brakes.

Lastly, checking your tires consistently is also going to save you and your company more money! Tires are always going to be your normal wear and tear highest overhead costs, especially during summer months. Proper inflation levels leading to proper tread contact will get the max effective life out of the tire!

Here is a great visual by Priority Tire that shows how inflation levels affect tire contact:

CVSA Roadcheck Announcement Flyer: CVSA Inspection Cheat List: https://cvsa.org/wp-content/uploads/2025-Roadcheck-Focus-Areas-Flyer.pdf

CVSA Inspection Cheat List: https://cvsa.org/wp-content/uploads/International-Roadcheck-Vehicle-Inspection-Cheatsheet.pdf

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Health Tip of the Week

Changing your Eating Habits

1. Start Small and Gradually:

• Focus on additions, not restrictions:

  Instead of focusing on what you can't eat, concentrate on adding more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to your diet. 

• Make one change at a time:

  For example, start by switching to whole-wheat bread or adding a vegetable to your sandwich. 

• Be patient:

  It takes time to form new habits, so don't get discouraged if you slip up occasionally. 

2. Plan Your Meals and Snacks:

• Plan ahead: Meal planning can help you make healthier choices and avoid impulsive eating. 

• Prepare healthy snacks: Keep healthy snacks like fruits, vegetables, or nuts on hand to avoid reaching for unhealthy options when you're hungry. 

• Cook at home more often: Eating at home allows you to control the ingredients and portion sizes. 

3. Practice Mindful Eating:

• Pay attention to your hunger and fullness cues: Eat when you're truly hungry and stop when you're satisfied.

• Avoid distractions while eating: Put away your phone, TV, or computer and focus on your food.

• Savor your food: Take your time to chew and enjoy the flavors and textures of your food. 

4. Make Healthy Swaps:

• Replace sugary drinks with water or sparkling water: Water is a great way to stay hydrated and can help curb cravings. 

• Choose whole grains over refined grains: Whole grains are a good source of fiber and nutrients. 

• Opt for lean protein sources: Include lean protein in your meals to help you feel full and satisfied. 

5. Seek Support:

• Talk to a friend or family member: Having someone to support you can make a big difference. 

• Consider joining a support group: Connecting with others who are trying to make similar changes can be helpful. 

• Consult with a registered dietitian or nutritionist: They can provide personalized guidance and support. 

6. Be Kind to Yourself:

• Don't beat yourself up over mistakes: Everyone slips up occasionally, so don't give up if you have a bad day. 

• Focus on progress, not perfection: Celebrate your successes and keep moving forward. 

• Remember that small changes can make a big difference: Focus on making gradual, sustainable changes that you can stick with long-term

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