Editor’s Note: The Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA) of 1993 requires that Federal agencies revise and update their strategic plan at the beginning of each new presidential term, and in doing so, solicit input from interested stakeholders.
Responding to the Department of Transportation’s request for public comment on the draft DOT Strategic Framework, Peterson Manufacturing submitted its comments on the strategic goals and objectives that will be considered by DOT to develop its final plan for fiscal years 2022-2026. Peterson’s comments, submitted on December 17, are available on the government’s regulations website.
In its message, Peterson emphasizes that the trucking industry in general, and Peterson in particular, are moving ahead in many areas of innovation. The company also notes, however, that manufacturers are facing challenges with industry demand and government guidance. The comments allow the company and other industry stakeholders the opportunity to share goals and challenges with the Department for removing barriers and supporting safety.
The draft USDOT Strategic Plan, available here, emphasizes near- and long-term objectives to “invest in our transportation system to provide American workers and businesses reliable and efficient access to good-paying jobs, resources, and markets.” The Department noted its plan would aim to “strengthen our world-class organization” and “establish policies, processes, and an inclusive and innovative culture to effectively serve communities and responsibly steward the public’s resources.”
The Department outlines six strategic goals for stakeholders to support and align with in improving transportation:
- Safety
- Economic Strength & Global Competitiveness
- Equity
- Climate & Sustainability
- Transformation
- Organizational Excellence
In addition to those goals, Peterson’s comments focus the Department’s attention toward workforce support, quality product oversight, and improving regulations for unlimited vehicle safety potential.
- Update and modernize Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 108, Vehicle Lighting to facilitate new designs and emerging technologies to maintain and improve safety.
- Improve the Department’s methods for certifying regulated vehicle safety components sold in the U.S. and allowing vehicle end users the ability to improve highway safety through equipment modification.
- Provide guidance to Made in USA businesses for identifying solutions affecting labor shortages.
“Peterson Manufacturing is prepared to work with the Department through our shared goals and advance safety with fleets and vehicle/trailer manufacturers,” says Ross Froat, Vice President of Engineering & Government Affairs at Peterson, in the comments. “We appreciate the opportunity to share industry challenges and work collectively to support American businesses to enhance innovation for vehicle safety.”
Article Resources
- Regulations.gov: Department of Transportation Strategic Plan
- Regulations.gov: Comment from Peterson Manufacturing
- Peterson News: Peterson hires industry innovator, Ross Froat, as Vice President of Engineering & Government Affairs