American Trucking Association (ATA) recently voiced its support for the passage of an amendment to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Reauthorization Act that prevents states from creating meal and rest rules for interstate truck drivers.
The Denham-Cuellar-Costa Amendment passed the House Thursday by a vote of 222 to 193. It clarifies Congress’ role as the primary regulatory authority of interstate commerce and required interstate CDL drivers to adhere to federal rules before state regulations.
ATA had lobbied for the amendment, and it was co-sponsored by Reps. Jim Costa (D-CA), Henry Cuellar (D-TX), and Jeff Denham (R-CA).
“Since our republic was founded, the federal government – not individual states like California – has had the power to regulate interstate commerce,” ATA President and CEO Chris Spear said. “Congress reaffirmed this for the trucking industry first in 1994 and again today by approving the Denham-Cuellar-Costa Amendment. Thanks to the leadership of Congressmen Denham, Cuellar and Costa for raising this critical issue, and to the bipartisan majority for affirming that the federal government has the last word on interstate safety rules.”
The Teamsters Union and the Owner Operator Independent Drivers Association were against the amendment. They believe the broad language of the amendment could have unintended negative consequences outside of rest and meal breaks.