What legislative act defined and refocused trucking regulation in 1980?

The Motor Carrier Act of 1980 is significant in the history of trucking regulation as it marked a pivotal shift towards deregulation in the trucking industry. Prior to this act, trucking was heavily regulated by the Interstate Commerce Commission, which controlled entry into the market, freight rates, and routes. The Motor Carrier Act aimed to reduce federal control and allow more market forces to dictate operations in the industry.

By removing restrictions on pricing and entry into the market, the 1980 Act encouraged competition, leading to lower prices and a more efficient transportation system. This change allowed for greater flexibility for trucking companies and fostered increased innovation and service quality in the industry. The act is widely regarded as a foundational piece of legislation that significantly transformed trucking regulations in the United States.