FMCSA Releases Final Rule Mandating Use of Electronic Logs

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has released its final rule mandating the use of electronic logs. The regulation was published in the Federal Register Dec. 16. This started the clock on a two-year compliance deadline which will make the devices mandatory beginning December 2017, notes Land Line magazine, a publication of the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA).

With one notable exception for pre-2000 model year trucks, the mandate will apply to all trucks operating in interstate commerce and subject to hours-of-service regulations. Logging devices and automatic onboard recorders that are compliant with current regulations will remain in compliance for four years after December 2017. OOIDA is in the process of reviewing the lengthy proposal that outlines technical specifications and motor carrier and driver responsibilities.

“From our perspective, if folks want to use technology…we have no issue with that. When the government mandates, it goes beyond where it needs to go,” said OOIDA vice president Todd Spencer. “Electronic logs have been pushed by the agency for a long time, and there are economic interests that have been pushing for a long time. And they got buy-in from lawmakers. But that doesn’t really change the substance of where the rubber meets the road. Do electronic logging devices truly improve highway safety?”

Land Line comments that the issue has been in play for many years. FMCSA previously attempted a more limited mandate for electronic logging devices on motor carriers with a record of noncompliance with hours-of-service regulations. That mandate was challenged successfully by OOIDA in August 2011, and the proposed rule was overturned.

While the association continues to review the regulation, Spencer said OOIDA would continue to protect drivers’ interest and make FMCSA fully justify its mandate. “Onboard recorders are all about productivity and enhancing productivity, which basically puts those in constant conflict with the legitimate safety needs of drivers,” he asserted. “Many of the issues that we have were raised previously and will be raised again. We’re talking about tracking drivers, the issues of harassment. The agency will have to justify what it has done.”