Letter to Anthony Foxx, Secretary of Transportation - Electronic Logging Devices

Letter

Dear Secretary Foxx:

I write today concerning the rule making process for electronic logging devices (ELDs). As you know, for over 4 years the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has been working to amend the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations to require on-board electronic logging devices in commercial vehicles. This rule making process has been delayed several times and has yet to result in the issuance of a final rule. I urge you to expedite the remaining needed reviews and issue a final rule as soon as possible.

ELDs are a critical tool in helping to keep our roads safer. The current paper based hours-of-service logbook system is more susceptible to manipulation and falsification. ELDs will greatly decrease bad actors ability to falsify their logbooks and will help remove the most dangerous drivers, those manipulating the rules, from the roads.

As you know, ELDs also have broad based support from both industry and safety advocates. Not only will they help increase safety, but they will also cut back on the paperwork burden that the current system places on truck drivers and the companies they work for.

While I understand the challenges with finalizing a rule of this nature, the current process has simply taken too long. I strongly urge you to expedite the issuance of a final rule that makes the use of ELDs mandatory. This action is a critical step to helping to keep our roads safer, and get those drivers and companies trying to break the rules off the road.

Sincerely,

U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer

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