Intermodal Equipment Safety and Responsibility Act of 2005

H.R. 1296, the Intermodal Equipment Safety and Responsibility Act of 2005, aims to improve road safety by shifting the legal and financial responsibility for the maintenance of shipping equipment, such as trailers and chassis, from trucking companies to the equipment owners. The bill requires owners to ensure all equipment meets federal safety standards before it is handed over to a motor carrier and mandates that owners reimburse truckers for any necessary repairs made while the equipment is in use. By holding equipment providers accountable for the roadworthiness of their gear, the legislation seeks to reduce mechanical failures on public highways and prevent companies from penalizing drivers who report safety concerns.