DOT seeks input on regulations to repeal or modify

DOT has invited comments until November 1 on what existing regulations or other actions that would be good candidates for repeal, replacement, suspension, or modification. The department said it may also hold a public meeting to discuss and consider comments. The initiative responds to several executive orders issued by President Trump earlier this year.

Because safety is DOT’s highest priority, the department seeks comments on existing regulations and other agency actions that may be repealed, replaced, or modified without compromising safety. DOT is especially interested in identifying regulations that:

• Eliminate jobs or inhibit job creation;

• Are outdated, unnecessary, or ineffective;

• Impose costs that exceed benefits;

• Create a serious inconsistency or otherwise interfere with regulatory reform initiatives and policies;

• Could be revised to use performance standards in lieu of design standards, or

• Potentially burden the development or use of domestically produced energy resources.

DOT said it welcomed comment on any regulation or action, but it suggested that those that “impose significant costs on the public may provide greater opportunity for identifying and alleviating unnecessary burdens.” The department listed economically significant rulemakings issued in recent years. Among those related to motor carriers are FMCSA’s rules on ELDs, a drug and alcohol clearinghouse, and entry-level driver training requirements; and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration rules on greenhouse gas emissions/fuel efficiency for medium- and heavy-duty vehicles and electronic stability control systems for heavy vehicles.

For the Federal Register notice, visit https://www.federalregister.gov/d/2017-21101.