The Broker Transparency Petition has been around for a while now. Two separate groups filed the petition. The groups are a voice for small-business truckers. They are seeking to have more transparency where brokers are involved. They feel brokers have been hiding vital information from them.

FMCSA versus the Petitioner

According to FreightWaves, the petitioners are still waiting on FMCSA to give a response. Owner Operator Independent Drivers Association and the Small Business in Trucking Coalition (SBTC) are the leaders in this petition. They want more insight into broker records. The same was published back in 2020 by FMCSA.

OOIDA sent a letter to FMCSA in September to follow up on the matter. They stated that it had been two years since the original petition. They want an update on what FMCSA has decided. They want to know if FMCSA stands with them or not. They also want FMCSA's views on all trucker comments around the same matter.

FMCSA, in response to the same, said that they are considering all options. They want to gather all information they need before making a call. They intend to remain within the law when making the decision. OOIDA request requires brokers to share an electronic copy of each transaction within 48 hours after a service. They want FMCSA to stop them from including clauses in the contract seeking such privacy. They want clarity on what the brokers make from these deals. SBTC's request is no different from what OOIDA wants. They also want FMCSA to grant them access to all records.

Notice and Comment Period

FMCSA already issued a notice and comment period. Transportation Intermediaries Association is the voice of the brokers, but they are against the petition. In addition, TIA believes the petition should not stand. They claim it will not be good for the supply chain. Also, TIA feels the same will affect the market. The Association also claims that this will affect the liberal nature of the market at large.

OOIDA and SBTC put in the petitions at the beginning of the pandemic. They felt that brokers were engaging in unfair practices then. They accused brokers of collusion, affecting pricing during the tough times. FMCSA has promised to provide a verdict by early next year. Both sides hope for the outcome to favor them. They all have their reasons for the same and now can only hope for the best as they wait.