Navigating a Transformative Year for Carriers

The year 2025 is expected to bring significant changes to the regulatory landscape for carriers, marked by economic recovery challenges and regulatory reforms. As the freight recession lingers, carriers continue to face financial pressure. Mark Schedler, J.J. Keller’s senior transport editor, notes, “The freight recession since mid-2022 is the most protracted downturn since I entered trucking in 1991.” This economic backdrop intersects with regulatory shifts such as the FMCSA’s agenda, Supreme Court rulings curtailing agency interpretation of ambiguous laws, and anticipated deregulation under the current administration.

Key Points:

• FMCSA is focusing on proposed rule eliminations and late 2024–2025 initiatives.
• Supreme Court rulings may limit federal agencies’ interpretive power, increasing legal challenges.
• Carriers must proactively understand and adapt to the FMCSA’s outlined rulemaking agenda.

Drug and Alcohol Testing Reforms on the Horizon

Upcoming changes in drug and alcohol testing protocols could significantly impact carrier operations. The oral fluid drug testing rule, effective since mid-2023, may see expanded adoption by April 2025, pending lab certification. Carriers need to prepare their teams and third-party administrators for compliance. Additionally, the potential reclassification of marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III raises concerns about its impact on drug testing for CDL drivers.

Key Points:

• Oral fluid drug testing could become an alternative to urine testing by April 2025.
• Electronic recordkeeping for DOT drug testing may streamline compliance efforts.
• Marijuana reclassification by the DEA might affect testing protocols for safety-sensitive employees.

Vehicle Initiatives and Compliance Challenges

2025 will also introduce several vehicle-related regulatory initiatives focused on safety and technology. Automated driving system rules are expected by late 2024, while mandates like automatic emergency braking (January 2025) and speed limiters (May 2025) aim to enhance safety but could drive up costs. Carriers must invest in electronic fleet management systems and prepare for compliance audits to mitigate risks.

Key Points:

• Automated driving systems, emergency braking, and speed limiter mandates are on the agenda.
• FMCSA is expanding programs like the Crash Preventability Determination Program.
• Technology mandates may increase operational costs and require technician upskilling.