GRAIN VALLEY, MISSOURI (RFD NEWS) — The new Right to Repair guidance from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is expected to reduce downtime and maintenance costs for equipment owners, a move being welcomed across agriculture and the commercial trucking industry.
Lewie Pugh with the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report to share his perspective on what the guidance means for drivers and operators.
In his interview with RFD NEWS, Pugh explained that the rule also applies to diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) equipment, giving operators greater access to diagnostics and repairs without being locked into manufacturer-only service options. He also noted that the change could improve efficiency and lower costs across the industry.
Pugh provided background on California’s Clean Truck Check rules, which no longer apply to out-of-state commercial vehicles, and outlined why the regulation’s removal is a benefit for interstate trucking operations and agricultural haulers moving goods across state lines.
Pugh also addressed the EPA’s recent request for information from the top 14 manufacturers of on-road and off-road vehicles that use DEF systems. He discussed what the agency is seeking to learn and the potential implications for manufacturers and equipment owners.
President Donald Trump speaks at the World Economic Forum in Davos, addressing SNAP spending, tariff threats against Europe, market reactions, and the upcoming USMCA review.
January 21, 2026 11:50 AM
·
From meatpacking settlements to landmark NEPA rulings, Roger McEowen outlines the top legal developments in 2025 that will shape agriculture in the years ahead.
January 20, 2026 03:39 PM
·
Alan Bjerga with the National Milk Producers Federation joined us to review new policies and regulations supporting the dairy industry and what they mean for the year ahead.
January 20, 2026 03:25 PM
·
Corn growers are turning to ethanol, E15 expansion, and export markets to help absorb record supplies and stabilize prices. Farm leaders discuss low-carbon ethanol demand, flex-fuel vehicle challenges, input costs, and the role of USMCA as producers look for market relief in the year ahead.
January 20, 2026 02:04 PM
·
From rising trade tensions in Europe to a pending Supreme Court decision on tariffs and shifting demand from China, global trade policy spearheaded by President Donald Trump continues to shape the outlook for U.S. agriculture—adding uncertainty as farmers navigate another volatile year.
January 20, 2026 01:14 PM
·
The Surface Transportation Board rejects the proposed Norfolk Southern–Union Pacific merger, prompting concerns from agricultural shippers about rail consolidation, service reliability, and higher transportation costs.
January 20, 2026 12:25 PM
·