ATA Backs Electronic Logging to Monitor Drivers’ Hours

American Trucking Associations is endorsing a federal proposal that trucking companies use electronic logging devices to monitor drivers’ compliance with hours-of-service rules.

The group said it supported both legislation requiring the electronic logging equipment and a rule proposed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

“ATA has always been in favor of strong enforcement of safety rules and regulations. This new policy just underlines that support,” ATA President Bill Graves said in a statement.

ATA said any regulation should address several conditions, including making devices cost-effective, ensuring that data ownership protects the privacy of fleets and drivers alike, and that any rule offers relief from the “current significant burden of retaining additional supporting documentation.”

The safety group Road Safe America said it was pleased ATA gave its “considerable weight to the call for both electronic logging as well a speed limiter settings at a reasonable top speed for our nation’s heavy trucks.”

ATA joins the Truckload Carriers Association and the Alliance for Driver Safety and Security in supporting the new federal initiative.

At its convention last month in San Diego, TCA’s board voted to endorse electronic logging devices, including electronic onboard recorders.

The Alliance for Driver Safety and Security said March 31 it supported the Senate bill, while the Owner-Operators Independent Drivers Association said it opposes a federal EOBR mandate.