New federal checklist shields businesses from negligent-hiring lawsuits over trucking choices

What does this do?

HR 5337 establishes a three-step federal safety checklist that businesses must complete within 45 days before a shipment to qualify for a legal defense against negligent-hiring lawsuits. The required checks are confirming the carrier is properly registered, carries required insurance, and has been cleared by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. The bill also requires the Department of Transportation to build a simpler public carrier rating system within one year, which would replace the checklist once it is officially in place.

Who does it affect?

The bill applies to businesses that ship goods, freight brokers, moving companies, and trucking carriers nationwide. It does not cover passenger transportation companies or certain local port trucking operations governed by state law. Individuals hiring movers for a personal household move face a lower standard and qualify automatically by using a registered carrier.

Why does it matter?

Businesses that skip the verification steps retain full legal exposure if a hired carrier causes harm. Once the new FMCSA rating system is in place, carriers will carry a public designation of either approved to operate or failing to meet requirements, changing how hiring decisions are documented and defended.

Where does it stand?