🚛Proposed Rule for Rescinding Trailer Retrofitting Requirements
Parts and Accessories Necessary for Safe Operation; Retroreflective Sheeting on Semitrailers and Trailers
Summary
FMCSA proposes to rescind the requirements for retroreflective sheeting on semitrailers and trailers manufactured prior to December 1, 1993, which is the compliance date for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) conspicuity rules applicable to trailer manufacturers. The retrofitting requirements were adopted by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) on March 31, 1999, and require that motor carriers engaged in interstate commerce install retroreflective tape or reflex reflectors on the sides and rear of semitrailers and trailers that were manufactured prior to December 1, 1993, have an overall width of 2,032 mm (80 inches) or more, and a gross vehicle weight rating of 4,536 kg (10,001 pounds) or more. With the passage of more than 30 years since the NHTSA requirements were implemented, FMCSA believes the vast majority of trailers currently in use on the Nation's highways were manufactured after 1993 so the retrofitting rule is no longer necessary. This proposal would eliminate obsolete regulatory text without compromising safety.
Agencies
- Transportation Department
- Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
Business Impact
$ - Low
The proposed rule rescinds retrofitting requirements for trailers manufactured before December 1, 1993, potentially reducing compliance costs for businesses that still operate such trailers. This provides operational flexibility and may streamline regulatory processes, aligning with deregulation initiatives.