FMCSA Extends ELD Mandate Review — But Will It Actually Help Drivers?

by TRUCKERS VA
(UNITED STATES)

Old Trucks, New Rules, and the Same Old Story

Introduction –
The FMCSA just hit the brakes — slightly — on its push to update the ELD (Electronic Logging Device) rules. A 30-day extension was announced to give folks more time to comment on proposed changes, especially around possible exemptions for older trucks. But while that sounds nice on paper, a lot of truckers are wondering: Will this actually fix anything, or is it just more bureaucratic kicking-the-can?

Key Points – What’s Actually Being Reviewed?

Exemptions for pre-2000 engines – Right now, trucks with engines made before 2000 are ELD-exempt. The review is looking at whether to keep, tweak, or remove that.

“Outdated tech” concerns – The FMCSA is asking if older engines still deserve the exemption, or if retrofitting tech has advanced enough to pull them into compliance.

Vendor standards – Another key piece is the quality and reliability of ELDs. Drivers have long complained about device malfunctions and spotty GPS. FMCSA wants to know if it’s time to tighten the standards for approved devices.

More flexibility for short-haul drivers – There’s chatter about better defining “short-haul” operations and how ELD rules apply to them.

Real Talk – What It Means for Drivers

Old-school trucks are freedom – Many veteran drivers specifically run pre-2000 trucks just to avoid ELDs. They don’t trust the system, and they value their paper logs and flexibility.

Mandates hit small fleets hardest – Bigger fleets can afford tech upgrades or bulk discounts on ELDs. But for one-truck operators? Every new rule feels like a financial sucker punch.

ELD tech is far from perfect – From bad Bluetooth connections to logging you off mid-run, many drivers say the devices do more harm than good. Some even call them a “distraction disguised as compliance.”

The clock ain’t the problem – For many drivers, it’s not about wanting to cheat. It’s about being treated like a number instead of a human. They want flexibility, not fake safety metrics.

Multiple Perspectives – Who’s For and Against the Changes?

Tech companies want expansion – Of course ELD manufacturers are all-in on removing the exemption. More rules mean more devices sold.

Old-school drivers want to be left alone – Many who’ve been driving for decades feel like Washington doesn’t understand real trucking life. Their rigs run fine, their records are clean, and they say, “If it ain’t broke, don’t regulate it.”

Safety advocates support uniformity – Groups pushing for road safety say everyone should be under the same rules, no matter what year their engine was built.

Owner-operators are split – Some want to keep the exemption to avoid costs and retain flexibility. Others support tightening the rules if it levels the playing field with big fleets who already run compliant.

Industry Response – Who’s Saying What?

OOIDA says, “Slow your roll” – The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association applauded the extension and says any changes need to be fair and make real-world sense.

Comments are rolling in – Thousands of drivers are using the public comment window to share their ELD horror stories and explain why flexibility matters.

Some fleets want standardization – Mid-size carriers say a clear, modernized ELD rulebook would actually help them compete fairly, especially if sketchy vendors get weeded out.

Bottom Line – Is This Just a Delay or a Real Opportunity?

This 30-day extension might seem small, but it could be a turning point. It’s a chance for drivers to get loud and get real. If you’ve got strong feelings about ELDs — and let’s be honest, most truckers do — this is the time to speak up.

But don’t hold your breath thinking this is a driver-first move. History says changes usually favor vendors and fleets with lobbyists. That’s why the little guys need to flood the comment box.

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