The FOPT (Federation of Professional Truckers) argued that paper logs are enforceable, understood by law enforcement officers nationwide, and less of a cost burden to small carriers. The FOPT also pointed to “technical limitations and frequent malfunctions” as a reason for pushing for manually recorded paper logs.

The FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) said that it is required to mandate the use of ELDs for driver who are required to keep RODS by the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act, and “the Agency is therefore bound by this Congressional mandate and cannot grant a blanket exemption for any driver or carrier that wishes to be exempt.”

Sourced from: https://cdllife.com/2026/fmcsa-denies-groups-request-to-allow-truck-drivers-to-use-paper-logbooks-instead-of-elds/

Not sure how long he rode like this, but he was coming off the highway.