**FMCSA Task Force Calls for Ban on Carrier Lease-Purchase Agreements**
A federal task force is urging Congress to ban lease-purchase agreements in the trucking industry. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) Truck Leasing Task Force released a report on January 23, stating that these agreements are harmful to drivers and the industry as a whole ([FleetOwner](https://www.fleetowner.com/news/article/55262769/fmcsa-task-force-calls-for-ban-on-carrier-lease-purchase-agreements)).
### **Findings of the Report**
The task force found that lease-purchase agreements often put drivers at a financial disadvantage. These agreements allow motor carriers to control a driver’s operations, pay, and debt. The report stated that such programs are designed to benefit carriers while leaving drivers in debt.
The task force reviewed lawsuits and public records to support its findings. It estimated that at least 200,000 truck drivers have been affected by these agreements. Many drivers reportedly receive negative paychecks after deductions for truck payments, insurance, and fuel. The report also found that fewer than 1 in 100 drivers successfully complete these agreements and own their trucks.
### **Industry Response**
Some trucking industry groups disagree with the report’s conclusions. David Heller, vice president of government affairs at the Truckload Carriers Association, argued that many lease-purchase agreements are successful. “If [lease-purchase agreements] were all that negative, they wouldn’t still be around,” Heller told FleetOwner. He believes these programs help drivers become independent business owners.
The American Trucking Associations (ATA) also defended lease-purchase agreements. “The independent contractor/owner-operator model in trucking has stood the test of time,” ATA stated. The group believes these agreements provide opportunities for drivers to build their own businesses.
However, the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) supported the task force’s findings. OOIDA President Todd Spencer said that many drivers enter these agreements believing hard work will lead to success, but instead, they end up financially struggling.
### **Recommendations**
The task force recommended that Congress either ban lease-purchase agreements or introduce stricter regulations. Suggested reforms include requiring carriers to disclose financial terms, maintain accurate records, and ensure fair contract terms. The group also proposed audits to check compliance with labor laws.
Congress has not yet taken action on the recommendations. The debate over lease-purchase agreements continues, with supporters arguing they provide opportunities and critics calling them exploitative.