Trucking association exec: living with regs can be 'damn near impossible'

Updated Jul 30, 2024

The message was simple: truckers are tired of regulations that make their jobs harder, don't improve their lives on the road or make highways safer.

The messenger was Lewie Pugh, the executive vice president of the Owner Operator Independent Drivers Association, and he was testifying before the House Highways and Transit Subcommittee earlier this week. The subcommittee's topic was, "Examining the Department of Transportation’s Regulatory and Administrative Agenda."

Pugh, a longtime trucker himself with 2.5 million safe miles to his driving credit, said every element of trucking is controlled by regulations.

(Pugh's remarks begin at 40:02 in the video)

"Complying with existing regulations that have no connection with safety can be overwhelming even for the most experienced driver," said Pugh. "In some cases, it's damn near impossible."

Pugh told the members of the subcommittee about the number of regulations being proposed that he said make no sense, including mandating speed limiters and side underride guards.

"If this is painting a picture of a dysfunctional regulatory environment where practical solutions have become secondary considerations, you're starting to see things like an OOIDA member," said Pugh.

He concluded his remarks by saying it's time for congress and the Department of Transportation to "make trucking an appealing, safe and sustainable career by listening to the people who make their living behind the wheel."