Which federal government agency regulates the shipping of hazardous materials in trucking and railroads and on aircraft and waterways in the United States?

The Department of Transportation (DOT) is the federal agency responsible for regulating the shipping of hazardous materials across various modes of transportation, including trucking, railroads, aviation, and waterways. This regulation is essential for ensuring safety and compliance with federal standards to minimize risks associated with hazardous materials during transport. The DOT has established guidelines and protocols that must be followed to protect public health, safety, and the environment.

Understanding the critical role of the DOT includes recognizing its authority to enforce regulations that govern packaging, labeling, and handling procedures for hazardous materials. These regulations help ensure that hazardous materials are transported safely to prevent accidents, spills, and other incidents.

The other agencies mentioned do not have the same comprehensive responsibilities in this context. The Department of Homeland Security focuses primarily on national security and emergency management. The Environmental Protection Agency deals with environmental protection and regulations concerning pollutants but does not specifically manage transportation regulations. The Federal Trade Commission focuses on consumer protection and antitrust laws rather than transportation safety. Thus, the Department of Transportation is the correct agency for regulating the shipping of hazardous materials in this context.