FMCSA Administrator Anne Ferro told motorcoach operators today in Las Vegas that the Obama Administration is committed to helping bus companies excel in their business ventures despite the challenging economic environment.
"Your companies, your drivers and your buses take people to where they need to go every single day, and that is a valuable service to the public and makes the economy a healthier one by keeping people on the move, getting them to jobs, appointments and bringing families together," Ferro said.
She added that the FMCSA commitment will continue to focus on passenger carrier safety through a series of regulatory updates currently in the works. These include proposed rules on electronic on-board recording devices for all motorcoaches to better monitor drivers' duty hours and manage fatigue. Other main objectives center around a proposed rule to prohibit texting and limiting the use of cell phones and other devices by motorcoach drivers, enhanced oversight of carriers attempting to evade sanctions and minimum knowledge requirements for new driver applicants.
Ferro also updated attendees on the Comprehensive Safety Analysis 2010 that FMCSA is scheduled to unveil later this year. CSA 2010 seeks to increase passenger safety in commercial vehicles by targeting unsafe driving, driver fatigue and fitness, vehicle crash as well as maintenance history, improper loading and cargo, and drug and alcohol screening for drivers. Colorado, Georgia, Missouri and New Jersey helped FMCSA test CSA 2010 in 2008 and were joined by Delaware, Kansas, Maryland, Minnesota and Montana last year.
"Implementing CSA 2010 will ultimately expand our reach and make our roads safer," Ferro added.
Founded in 1971 as the United Bus Owners of America, UMA's membership now includes over 875 motorcoach companies and another 215 motorcoach manufacturers, suppliers and related businesses.