The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is addressing 15 topics during listening sessions scheduled this month. The sessions are designed to help FMCSA develop a multi-year reauthorization proposal that could include motor carrier safety programs.

The options for discussion include:

1. How do we improve FMCSA and state program oversight of the CDL?
2. What is the best approach to improving compliance among high-risk drivers?
3. Should FMCSA expand its medical program (in research and/or other areas)?
4. What should be the Federal role in establishing driver-training programs?
5. How can we improve the safety of passenger car and commercial vehicle "interactions"?
6. Should we uncouple traffic enforcement from the inspection requirement?
7. Should the partnership be expanded to localities?
8. Should FMCSA have greater safety authority over intrastate carriers?
9. What leverage can be used to ensure every state joins PRISM (Performance and Registration Information Systems Management)?
10. How can help be provided to states to improve data collection and reporting?
11. What kinds of incentives would encourage states to establish commercial passenger carrier safety programs?
12. How can we end the out-of-service cycle?
13. What kind of R&T program could give a big breakthrough in fatality reductions?
14. How can our agency's R&T results best be transferred to the transportation community?
15. Should the national motor carrier safety program be supported with dedicated funding?

"These are the top areas of consideration the FMCSA is looking into," said Mike Thomas, FMCSA spokesperson. "But the audience is welcome to introduce other topics and areas of concern."

OOIDA Vice President Todd Spencer called the sessions "an excellent opportunity for truckers to go share their thoughts on where FMCSA should be focusing efforts." Existing legislation provides for FMCSA programs through September 2003.

The final three of five sessions are scheduled for Aug. 7 in Oakland, CA; Aug. 9 in Chicago; and Aug. 16 in Washington, DC. For more information visit www.fmcsa.dot.gov/mcsr_lsa.htm.