While this may not seem directly towing related, this legislation would transform 529 savings accounts from “college savings plans” to “career savings plans” by allowing beneficiaries to use funds in those plans for, among other things, obtaining and maintaining qualified professional certifications.

TRAA and the other PCC members have been advocating for these changes since 2019 as part of a broader attempt to encourage young people to enter professions that don't require college educations.

?If enacted, the DRIVE Act would prohibit FMCSA from "issuing any rule or regulation that would require commercial motor vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating or gross combination weight over 10,000 pounds that are engaged in interstate commerce to be equipped with a speed limiting device set to a maximum speed."

Speed limiters have been at the center of several proposed regulations and legislations over the last few years. While it is unlikely the U.S. Department of Transportation will move forward with any such proposals under a republican-held White House and Congress, the coalition is working proactively to resolve this issue.

Those members who attended TRAA’s Hill Day in February will recall Congressman Kiley discussing this resolution and the multitude of concerns including the effect of “Advanced Clean Trucks" (ACT) regulations on equipment availability and rising costs for towing and recovery companies.

TRAA and our federal lobbying firm will continue to monitor the resolution's progress in the Senate. Keep an eye on your inbox for updates and email contact us with any questions!

Additionally, the successful constituent meetings held by many of our members during TRAA’s Legislative Action Workshop & Hill Day in February have also resulted in three Members of Congress agreeing to join Congressman Troy Carter (D-LA 2) as original cosponsors of this legislation – Representatives Dina Titus (D-NV 1), Rudy Yakym (R-IN 2), and Rob Bresnahan (R-PA 8).

If enacted, the Preventing Roadside and Work Zone Death Act would establish a coordinated effort under the U.S. Department of Transportation, including data collection initiatives, enhanced Slow Down, Move Over campaigns, and the creation of a task force to develop concrete strategies to save lives.

To continue building momentum and raise awareness, we’re asking TRAA members to contact their representatives and ask them to cosponsor H.R.2992.

After much thought and consideration, Elizabeth Martineau-Dupuis (TRAA’s Director of Education) has also elected to step away from the association in July. Owning and running a successful tree service business with her husband, her plate has simply become too full. 

The good news is Bruce Bender of Ohio has accepted TRAA’s offer to take over as Executive Director in July. Many of you already know Bruce well from his position with the Towing and Recovery Association of Ohio (TRAO). Bruce has been actively involved with TRAA for years and is well positioned to take over the role.

George Kuntz (TRAA President) shares, “Bruce will give it his best to fill the losses. He has the knowledge and experience and comes well-recommended by Cynthia to fill the Executive Director position.”

While transitions are rarely easy, rest assured that TRAA will continue doing the good work on behalf of the industry. 

If enacted, the DRIVE Act would prohibit FMCSA from "issuing any rule or regulation to require vehicles that have a gross vehicle weight of more than 26,000 pounds and are operating in interstate commerce to be equipped with a speed limiting device set to a maximum speed."

Speed limiters have been at the center of several proposed regulations and legislations over the last few years. While it is unlikely the U.S. Department of Transportation will move forward with any such proposals under a republican-held White House and Congress, TRAA wants to be as pro-active as possible on this issue. 

On display were two uniquely designed race cars, including Matt Cummings’ Injected Nitro Dragster and world champion Julie Nataas’ Injected Nitro Funny Car, both featuring vibrant ‘Slow Down Move Over’ liveries. These SDMO race cars then competed in the NHRA Gatornationals a few days later from March 6th to 9th at the Gainesville Raceway.

TRAA appreciates the engagement and support of the industry as we work together to advocate on this critical issue. We look forward to a future where every responder can go home to their friends and family at the end of the day.

Barrs brings decades of experience in transportation safety and infrastructure, having previously served as Chief of Florida’s Highway Patrol, where he played a key role in statewide traffic safety initiatives. He then joined HNTB Corp., a leading transportation engineering firm, where he further solidified his expertise, as he worked on transportation-related projects focused on improving roadside safety and efficiency.

“The nomination of Derek Barrs is a strong step toward ensuring that FMCSA remains dedicated to improving highway safety and the regulation of commercial motor vehicles,” said TRAA President, George Kuntz. “His extensive background in highway safety and transportation-related initiatives positions him as the right leader for this role. For the towing and recovery industry, Barrs’ appointment is particularly promising, as he understands the critical role our professionals play in keeping roadways clear and safe. His leadership will help address key challenges such as roadside safety protections and fair regulatory policies that impact our industry.”

TRAA urges the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee to move swiftly in confirming Barrs as FMCSA Administrator. His leadership and expertise will be invaluable in fostering policies that support safe and efficient roadways for all users, including the towing and recovery industry. His deep understanding of highway operations and emergency response will be instrumental in ensuring that towing professionals are recognized as essential to roadway safety efforts.

TRAA has long opposed increases in truck weight. Increasing truck weight would only increase the amount of time our operators would be roadside splitting combination vehicles and in harm’s way. And, unfortunately, Congress has failed to enact legislation that would provide an exemption for towers for both length and weight.

TRAA is actively participating in CABT Hill meetings and is playing a lead role in the CABT with over a dozen Members of Congress.