Gluesenkamp Perez Bill Would Target Scammers That Prey On Truckers

Resources / Press Share on Gluesenkamp Perez Bill Would Target Scammers That Prey On Truckers May 14, 2026 Press WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03) and Rep. Dave Taylor (R-OH) introduced legislation that’s intended to help bring an end to scammers who take advantage of truckers by scaring them into paying money for federal services that are actually free. “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.” The issue grew out of concerns raised with the Congresswoman by truckers, who pointed to misleading letters trying to scare them into paying to avoid government hassles. The letters frequently mimic official documents from federal agencies but in reality are often sent by scammers. These services for simple renewals or registrations end up costing truckers wasted time and money. Gluesenkamp Perez raised the issue recently during a Congressional hearing in the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. The Stop Scamming Truckers Act 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.” The font must be at least 12-point font in written communication, and the predominant font size used in the body text of the communication for electronic communication. The disclosure has to appear on the first page (or without the need to scroll if the communication is digital). The bill also clarifies that a company cannot: Use a name, seal, logo, insignia, or trade dress that would reasonably imply affiliation with the Department of Transportation. For enforcement, the bill creates 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. Trucking advocates support this legislation: “America’s truckers work closely with USDOT and FMCSA every day to uphold safety and compliance on our nation’s highways,” said American Trucking Associations 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 Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association 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.” -30- Share on