HOT NEWS

Several weeks ago, the FMCSA was given the authority to shut down a carrier if it finds that carrier was created to avoid enforcement of a poor safety record. The new rule, which was published in late April, will go into effect on June 28, 2012 and also gives the FMCSA authority to consolidate records of “reincarnated” carriers with those companies they are affiliated with.

We recently held an HNI U event on the requirements around a FMCSA safety audit -- now it’s time to put these provisions to work!

Medicare scams are on the rise.  While this might not be an issue affecting you, it likely affects someone you know, possibly a parent or grandparent.  This information is valuable to be aware of and share with those you know and care about. 

On Wednesday, April 18^th, the FMCSA announced it is establishing a National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners and will require medical professionals who perform driver examinations to be trained, tested and certified on specific physical qualifications that can affect a driver's ability to safely operate a vehicle.  [A long awaited move!]

RENEE KUHS
Compliance Attorney

On April 17, 2012, yet another delay was made to the NLRB’s deadline for employers to comply with new NLRB posting requirements.

Recently the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration announced new changes to the Safety Measurement System which are now available for preview by motor carriers. The SMS preview began on March 27th, 2012 and runs through late June 2012.

JODI MATHY
Post Loss Specialist

Claim costs are on the rise, especially in workers compensation.  Work comp claims have steadily grown, nearly tripling in the past 20 years.  This is mostly due to an increase in medical expenses.

The following is a partial list compiled from the FDA’s online list of recent recalls. See complete listings at www.recalls.gov. 

The first legal challenge to the FMCSA Hours of Service final rule was filed yesterday.  On February 14, the American Trucking Associations (ATA) filed a petition with the U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia asking the court to review the recently published rule. (See our recent blog on the topic for a breakdown of what's in the HOS final rule.)  

Recent NLRB regulations require that employers comply with new posting requirements.  The notice describes employees’ rights and must be displayed in a conspicuous place, where other notifications of workplace rights and employer rules are posted.  Posters must be 11” x 7” in size.  Employers should also publish a link to the notice on an internal or external website if other personnel policies or workplace notices are made available there.