trucking

Small Business Coalition Opposes TIA's Push for FMCSA Safety Standard

The Small Business in Transportation Coalition is challenging the Transportation Intermediaries Association's request for a new FMCSA safety rating standard. Following a Supreme Court decision that eliminated a legal shield for freight brokers against negligent hiring claims, the TIA has petitioned FMCSA to create tools helping brokers and shippers evaluate carrier safety risks. The SBTC argues the regulatory agency should assume a limited role, suggesting instead that Congress address the issue. TIA President and CEO Chris Burroughs told reporters the association remains open to various solutions, including a revamp of existing ratings systems or expedited regulatory screenings. Burroughs emphasized that publicly available carrier data remains insufficient for brokers and shippers to make informed safety decisions about load selection.