Today, U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.), who chairs the Subcommittee on Surface Transportation, Freight, Pipelines, and Safety, led a hearing titled “Shifting Gears: Issues Impacting the Trucking and Commercial Bus Industries in the U.S.” The session focused on examining issues related to safety, regulatory burdens, and the long-term viability of these transportation sectors.
The hearing addressed potential reforms in regulations and policies affecting trucking and motorcoach industries. Discussions included topics such as Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s regulations, technology deployment, freight theft and fraud, workforce challenges, and enforcement requirements relevant to upcoming surface transportation reauthorization.
Senator Young emphasized the need to identify outdated federal regulations that may not enhance road safety. He highlighted that such rules could impose significant costs on private-sector innovators aiming to improve safety and efficiency within the industry.
Young also underscored the importance of enhancing roadway infrastructure for America’s commercial trucking and bus sectors. He stressed maintaining road quality and effectively utilizing federal funding alongside state, local, and private investments for infrastructure projects that can significantly improve road safety.
“Indiana is home to over 97,000 miles of public roadways,” stated Senator Young. “In Evansville, Indiana, I have been working hard for years to secure federal funding for the I-69 Ohio River Crossing project… This is the type of project… where federal infrastructure dollars should be focused.”
A full video of Senator Young’s opening remarks is available online.
