Associations release statements on EOBRs in advance of congressional meeting

Washington – Multiple truck driver associations and a safety advocacy organization released opposing statements on the inclusion in a Senate transportation bill of a mandate that would require the use of electronic onboard recorders in commercial motor vehicle carriers to track hours of service. The statements were released in advance of a May 8 meeting in which the House and Senate were expected to discuss the mandate, which is not present in a similar House surface transportation bill.

In a letter (.pdf file) sent May 7 to the House and Senate, eight organizations, including the American Trucking Associations and the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, argued that EOBRs can improve compliance with HOS regulations, which help ensure CMV operators do not drive fatigued.

In a May 8 statement to its members, the Grain Valley, MO-based Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association said the devices are “unproven” and could be used to harass drivers. The organization criticized the Teamsters’ support of the mandate, claiming it is an example of small businesses and contractors being attacked.

At press time, the House and Senate were discussing their respective surface transportation bills.