Repealing a Century-Old Truck Tax: What the Modern, Clean, and Safe Trucks Act Could Mean for the Industry
The trucking industry may soon see relief from a federal tax that has been in place for more than a century. On June 2, 2026, U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.) introduced the Modern, Clean, and Safe Trucks Act, legislation aimed at eliminating the 12% federal excise tax (FET) on new heavy-duty trucks and trailers. While the proposal is still working its way through Congress, it has already gained strong support from trucking industry leaders who believe the change could accelerate fleet modernization, improve safety, and reduce emissions across America's highways. A Tax Rooted in History The federal excise tax on heavy trucks was originally established in 1917 to help fund the United States' involvement in World War I. More than 100 years later, the tax remains in place and is currently directed into the Highway Trust Fund to support transportation infrastructure projects. While the purpose of the tax has evolved, many industry stakeho...