Senate revisits EOBR requirements to promote trucking safety

The mandated use of electronic on-board recorders (EOBRs) by trucking companies has been a hot button issue for many on Capitol Hill and throughout the industry. The measure is aimed toward promoting trucking safety, however many experts believe the need is unwarranted.

Currently, Senators Mark Pryor and Lamar Anderson are seeking to pass the Commercial Driver Compliance Improvement Act, which would mandate "tamper-resistant' EOBRs be installed in trucks, Today's Trucking reports.

"After several meetings with the trucking industry and Senate hearings on highway safety, I believe the most effective solution is to require the use of electronic on-board recorders," Pryor said in a press release.

Under the proposal, the Department of Transportation will be responsible for issuing guidelines with 18 months of the bill's enactment. Furthermore, they are tasked with setting design and performance standards for the device.

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, nearly more than 540,000 vehicle truck inspections occurred between October and December 2010. Moreover, state authorities conducted nearly 1,300 compliance reviews during the same time period.

Senate revisits EOBR requirements to promote trucking safety

Monday, April 4th, 2011