In The News

Rule to limit wireless communication devices out of White House, back to FMCSA

WASHINGTON — A proposed rule for cell phone use that was promised by “summertime” has made it out of the White House Office of Management and Budget for review, and has been sent back to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration for publication soon.

During an announcement by Department of Secretary Ray LaHood, in January, that commercial truck drivers were banned from texting while operating their trucks, FMCSA Administrator Anne Ferro promised a more restrictive overall rule for truckers and bus operators by “summertime.”

According to the proposed rule abstract, this rulemaking would ban text messaging and restrict the use of cell phones while operating a commercial motor vehicle. This rulemaking is in response to Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration-sponsored studies that analyzed safety incidents and distracted drivers. This rulemaking would also address the National Transportation Safety Board's "Most Wanted List" of safety recommendations.

Secretary LaHood is “on a mission” to stop the dangerous practice of distracted driving.

The proposed rule should be published soon on the Federal Register.

The Trucker will have updates on this rule as it happens.

Barb Kampbell of The Trucker staff can be reached for comment at [email protected] .

www.theTrucker.com