NPTC Safety Article- December 2023 -FMCSA Policy on Sexual Assaults

Earlier this month, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration issued a Notice of Enforcement Policy intended to increase awareness of sexual assault against commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers and to emphasize federal law requires that persons who are convicted of using a CMV to commit a felony must be disqualified from operating a CMV requiring a commercial driver’s license (CDL) or commercial learner’s permit (CLP).

The safety of CMV operators is a critical aspect of FMCSA’s safety mission. Sexual assaults have occurred at truck stops, fueling stations, and in connection with CMV driver training.

Truck drivers whose personal safety is at risk cannot devote their complete attention to the safe operation of a CMV and the performance of other safety-sensitive functions.