Bill targets scammers who trick truckers into paying for free FMCSA and USDOT services
Lawmakers introduced a bill that would put the brakes on companies that try to intimidate truckers into paying for federal services that are offered for free.
The Stop Scamming Truckers Act was introduced this week by Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03) and Rep. Dave Taylor (R-OH).
Bill To Protect Truckers From Scammers Mimicking USDOT Or FMCSA
If passed, the bill would:
- Require that any company that transmits correspondence about USDOT numbers must include a disclosure that reads:
“This communication is from a private company. We are not the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, the Department of Transportation, or any other Federal Government Agency, and we are not affiliated with the United States Government.”
- Clarify that a company cannot: Use a name, seal, logo, insignia, or trade dress that would reasonably imply affiliation with the Department of Transportation.
- Create a private right of action – any person who receives a communication that violates the act may bring a civil action in a U.S. district court. Damages can include actual damages, statutory damages of at least $500 and up to $5,000.
Gluesenkamp Perez introduced the bill in response to concerns from truckers who said they’d received “misleading letters trying to scare them into paying to avoid government hassles” which mimicked official documents from legitimate agencies like USDOT or FMCSA.
“There is no end to the rage and confusion that comes with receiving scam letters that falsely purport to be from the federal government,” said Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez, “When DOT licenses are the subject of these scams, it torches public goodwill towards federal agencies. This is a critical issue that disproportionately affects small businesses and it’s time to see some action taken.”
“Trucking companies already face enough challenges without being targeted by scammers looking to make a quick buck,” said Rep. Taylor. “With 97% of trucks on the road operated by small businesses, family-owned companies are too often the ones hit hardest by these schemes. I’m proud to join my colleague, Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez, in working to stop trucking scams so the industry can stay focused on what matters most — keeping America’s roads, industries, and supply chains moving forward.”
‘Stop Scamming Truckers Act’ Endorsed By Trucking Groups
The bill is endorsed by the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) and the American Trucking Associations (ATA).
“America’s truckers work closely with USDOT and FMCSA every day to uphold safety and compliance on our nation’s highways,” said ATA Senior Vice President for Legislative Affairs Alex Rosen. “Unfortunately, some bad actors exploit that trusted relationship by masquerading as government agencies and tricking motor carriers into purchasing unnecessary services. ATA strongly supports the Stop Scamming Truckers Act, which would help put an end to these deceptive and aggressive tactics. We thank Reps. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez and Dave Taylor for their bipartisan leadership to protect our industry from fraud and ensure truckers can stay focused on safely delivering the nation’s freight—without fear of being scammed.”
“We’ve seen too many truck drivers misled into paying fraudsters hundreds of dollars for registration services they can complete themselves. OOIDA supports the Stop Scamming Truckers Act because it will put an end to these despicable schemes,” said OOIDA President Todd Spencer. “Truckers are the backbone of the American economy, working hard every day to comply with countless federal regulations while operating at the safest levels. They shouldn’t have to waste time and money dodging scammers. Our members expect their representatives in Washington to promote policies that address their needs and support their businesses. Reps. Gluesenkamp Perez and Taylor have demonstrated they are here to do exactly that.”