Newsletter Archive

EPA eyes Calif. clean truck waivers

Plus: Tips for resilient leadership in trucking

What one president does, the next undoes. That's what unfolding right now as Trump's EPA sends two Biden-era California waivers to Congress for review, potentially killing the state's clean truck rules. The ramifications would be widespread. Plus, a case study in one fleet's use of AI, and lessons in leading with resilience, especially in a disruption-prone industry like trucking.

⬆️$3.677

AVG. COST OF DIESEL PER GALLON IN U.S. AS OF 02/17, UP 0.012¢

Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration

INSIDE LOOK

EPA moves to revoke California clean truck waivers

The Trump administration's EPA is looking to revoke waivers for California's trucking rules. The agency is sending two of the state's waivers to Congress for review:

Advanced Clean Trucks, which pushes OEMs to manufacture and sell zero-emission trucks.
Omnibus NOx, which regulates nitrogen oxide emissions from diesel engines.

California is allowed to preempt federal truck standards if granted a waiver from the federal government, which it received during the Biden administration. Now, the current EPA wants Congress to examine how the state's rules could affect the rest of the U.S.

Why this matters: Congress could kill the waivers, leaving OEMs in a lurch of how to proceed with developing engines. Many trucking groups have lobbied against California's emissions rules, noting the mandates and timelines are aggressive compared to available technology and infrastructure.

Get more details at Heavy Duty Trucking.

ROADSIDE READS

What we're taking notes on: 2025 changes to per-diem and depreciation tax deductions for owner-operators.

A trend we like to see: This kind of exchange between a driver and company, making sure the driver can get to their location safely in inclement weather.

What we're reading: A blog on Microsoft's website about trucking firm Gamer Logistics, and how it used AI to improve operations.

What we're laughing at: This funny and all too relatable graphic for any business leader who's tried to find cost savings at their company.

FAST LANE

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JACKPOT: Truck inspection finds $1M cash, 183 pounds of marijuana

CHAPTER 11: Trucking company files for bankruptcy with liabilities up to $10M

TRAFFIC JAM: Reconstructed Chicago interchange increases truck speeds 25%

NEWS

Unknowns of Trump's tariffs weigh on trucking recovery

What's worse: tariffs or the uncertainty surrounding them? One supply chain professor says both are hurting the trucking market's recovery. Higher prices resulting from tariffs could dent consumer spending, decreasing freight. At the same time, not knowing which tariffs may be enforced and when is leading companies to proceed cautiously and postpone capital investment.

Why this matters: After a long freight recession, trucking professionals and analysts have noted signs of a recovery, with capacity exiting and rates rising. Tariffs could halt that momentum. (CCJ Digital)

States consider bills to limit, prohibit autonomous truck ops

Nearly a dozen states have legislation on the table related to autonomous trucks. Some, such as Arizona and Delaware, would ban AVs without a driver present in the vehicle. Another in Virginia would require a human in vehicles exceeding 62,000 pounds.

Why this matters: As autonomous technology advances, state legislatures have to keep pace, deciding the best course of action to keep freight moving while ensuring safety on the roads. (Land Line)

How trucking CEOs can lead with resilience

The supply chain environment always keeps trucking industry managers on their toes, whether there are disruptions at the ports or changes in regulations. One thought leader recommends implementing driver-centric policies, embracing technology and managing personal stress to remain resilient.

Why this matters: Risks are aplenty in the logistics industry, and trucking execs need a "bounce-back" mindset to be ready for whatever comes their way. (Forbes)