As the trucking industry continues to evolve, so does the regulatory landscape that’s shaping its future. While the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act (CORCA) is a prominent development aimed at curbing interstate and transnational theft, it represents just one piece of a broader effort by lawmakers and regulators to modernize the industry, strengthen enforcement, and mitigate fraud.
Here’s a look at some of the most significant developments shaping the future of trucking in 2025:
Executive Orders: Reinstating the English Language Enforcement Even More
An executive order was issued in April 2025 that reinstates stricter enforcement of English proficiency requirements for commercial drivers, reversing previous guidance from 2016 that had allowed more flexibility. Under the new directive, drivers who cannot demonstrate English proficiency may be placed out of service.
In May 2025, the Department of Transportation (DOT) officially began enforcing these updated requirements through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), citing both safety and communication as key considerations.
Proposed Legislation: English Proficiency for Commercial Drivers
In June 2025, Senator Roger Marshall introduced the Commercial Motor Vehicle English Proficiency Act (S.2114), proposing that all commercial driver license (CDL) exams be administered exclusively in English. The bill seeks to ensure a consistent nationwide standard that enhances driver communication and supports roadway safety. If passed, the law would standardize federal initiatives across all states and reduce inconsistencies among testing protocols.
DOTS “Pro-Trucker” Reform Package
In June 2025, U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced a broad package of updates designed to address long-standing challenges for commercial drivers. Highlights of this initiative include:
· Increased availability in truck parking to save truckers the significant amount of time that it takes to find parking
· Withdrawing the speed limiter rule by decreasing accident risk and allowing drivers to operate their vehicles safely based on the flow of traffic
· Launching digital systems to provide user-friendly driver resources
· Updating “burdensome” regulations by getting rid of almost 2,000 words from federal regulations; another step in saving drivers time and money
FMCSA Modernization: A Push Against Fraud
A key part of FMCSA’s modernization strategy involves its ongoing effort to streamline carrier identification systems. By Fall 2025, the agency plans to eliminate the use of Motor Carrier (MC) numbers and move entirely to USDOT numbers. This shift is designed to decrease fraudulent registrations and simplify oversight.
What It Means for the Industry
These updates showcase a coordinated federal push to strengthen driver qualifications, increase operational transparency, and mitigate rising threats like cargo theft and fraud. For insurance carriers, brokers, and risk managers, the implications are significant:
· Stronger driver requirements may influence underwriting standards and claims outcomes.
· Parking and speed reforms could shift operational risk patterns and affect policyholder behavior.
· FMCSA modernization brings new transparency that supports better data validation and risk analysis.
Looking Ahead
While CORCA stands out as a headline-making policy, it’s just the beginning. These developments showcase Washington’s commitment to both safety and supply chain integrity, more specifically in response to the rise in organized cargo theft and fraud schemes. As these changes unfold, staying informed of updates is critical for insureds, brokers, and risk professionals alike. Contact us today to learn how we can support your client’s business in this evolving landscape.
