Initiatives building off earlier comment periods and stakeholder processes
Earlier this week, the FMCSA released their Fall 2024 Regulatory agenda, previewing timelines for key regulatory actions for the remainder of the year and beyond. While other actions will be taken by the agency, the agenda focuses on the most impactful to industry and stakeholders, as measured through compliance time and estimated costs.
Highlights and background on relevant regulations for the domestic household goods industry are below:
- As IAM highlighted last month and included in the most recent regulatory agenda, is the proposed rule governing property broker transparency requirements. IAM is reviewing the proposed rule now, and intends to submit comments prior to the January 21st deadline.
- IAM has also provided information on several stakeholder meetings throughout 2024 regarding FMCSA’s intent to implement a new Unified Registration System (URS) for motor carriers, brokers, freight forwarding and insurance entities. The to-be proposed provisions would codify existing FMCSA practices, require proof of required insurance, place of business verification, along with updating many other existing processes and procedures. An expansive notice of proposed rulemaking to begin this process is expected to be issued later this month.
- The agency noted they plan to delay further consideration of speed limiter requirements for commercial vehicles weighing more than 26k lbs until May of 2025.
Also on the Fall 2024 agenda for 2025 action is a registration and a demonstration of knowledge for household goods motor carriers. Earlier approved legislation (MAP-21) allowed for the FMCSA to require agency registration in order to provide transportation of household goods. This would include successful completion of a to be developed proficiency examination and intent to comply with applicable Federal laws relating to consumer protection, estimating, consumers’ rights and responsibilities, and options for limitations of liability for loss and damage. This proposed rule is expected to be issued in June of next year.
IAM anticipates an active 2025, with notices of proposed rulemakings and stakeholder comment periods to be published by June. We will keep members apprised of opportunities for engagement and association positions as they are developed. For more information, or if you have any questions on the agency proposals highlighted, please contact Bryan Vickers (703-403-2882, bvickers@pacellp.com) with IAM’s Government and Regulatory Affairs Team.