Deregulation Efforts Gain Momentum
As federal agencies ramp up their efforts to review and potentially roll back outdated or burdensome regulations, ABA is actively engaging in the process to advocate for the motorcoach industry. With the new administration now in office, ABA’s advocacy team is pushing for a renewed focus on regulatory reform—an initiative first championed during the previous Trump Administration.
ABA strongly supports the continued evaluation of existing transportation regulations and agency actions—including guidance documents—to determine which rules remain necessary, effective, and safe. The goal is to recommend modifications, replacements, or repeals where appropriate without compromising public safety.
Several agencies have already opened public comment periods to solicit input on regulations that may hinder competitiveness and entrepreneurship. These include the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), the Small Business Administration (SBA), the Department of Justice (DOJ), the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), and most recently, the Department of the Interior (including the National Park Service). While many comment periods have formal deadlines, agencies continue accepting input beyond those dates. For instance, the Department of the Interior’s comment window closes on June 20, 2025, though feedback can also be submitted via email without a deadline.
To date, ABA has submitted a range of recommendations, including:
- Removal of ADA fleet acquisition requirements and reporting – 49 CFR 37.183 and 49 CFR 37.213
- Modification of FTA safety committee rules for private carriers – 49 USC § 5329(d)
- Dismissal of California/Washington meal and rest break waiver request – 49 U.S.C. 31141(d)
- Elimination of Form MP-1 filing requirement – 49 CFR 369.4
- Permanence of NHTSA seatbelt exemption for entertainer coaches – 49 CFR 571
- Removal of CDL under-the-hood testing requirement – 49 CFR 383.113(a)(1)(i)
- Adjustment of 5311(f) governor certification and fund transfers – 49 CFR 5311(f)(2)
ABA invites industry and public members to contribute their thoughts and suggestions to strengthen these efforts further. For more information or to submit input, don’t hesitate to contact Brandon Buchanan at [email protected] or (202) 218-7227. You can also submit your comments through the ABA website.
