Another Truck Leasing Task Force Meeting Tomorrow

The Truck Leasing Task Force (TLTF), part of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), will hold its first fall public meeting tomorrow, October 30, 2024. This meeting, held online, is part of an effort to make truck leasing agreements clearer and fairer for owner-operators and small trucking companies. Register to attend tomorrow’s meeting here.

What is the Truck Leasing Task Force?

The TLTF was created through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) in 2021. Its job is to look at truck leasing agreements to see how they affect truck drivers and small businesses. The TLTF follows rules under the Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA) to guide its work.

The group will write a report with findings, solutions, and recommendations. This report will go to the Secretary of Transportation, the Secretary of Labor, and key members of Congress. The goal is to make leasing agreements easier to understand and better for drivers before they sign.

What Will Happen in Tomorrow’s Meeting?

The meeting will happen from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. ET. Several important topics will be discussed:

• Presentation on the history of commercial motor vehicle operations and safety in the U.S., focusing on owner-operators.
• Updates from the Public Court Data Collection Subcommittee, which looks at truck leasing agreements through case law.
• Public comment period where drivers can share their own experiences with truck leases.

Speakers will have two minutes each to talk. If drivers prefer, they can submit written remarks to be included in the meeting record.

Second Meeting Coming in November

After tomorrow’s meeting, the next one will happen on November 20, 2024. It will continue the conversations from the October meeting, with more updates and another public comment period.

How to Join the November Meeting

Drivers can register here for the November meeting. The deadline to register is November 13, 2024. To request help with accommodations like sign language interpretation, contact FMCSA before the registration deadline.

All meeting details, including agendas and minutes, will be posted on the FMCSA’s TLTF webpage.

Why These Meetings Matter

Owner-operators and small trucking companies often face confusing leasing agreements. These agreements can create financial problems that last for years. The TLTF hopes to find solutions that will help drivers and businesses.

By participating in these meetings, drivers can share their experiences and influence important policy changes. This is a chance for the trucking community to make a real difference in the way future leasing agreements are created.