Fla. Port Security Rules Spark Trucker Woes

Florida will soon impose security measures that could cost the trucking industry millions of dollars by requiring companies to pay for separate driver background checks and photo identification badges for each of Florida’s 14 ports.

The state’s action has triggered industry criticism over the redundant costs and barriers to efficient handling of cargo. Truckers are also concerned that other states and ports will adopt similar practices.

The new Florida law takes effect Jan. 1. It will apply not only to all of the 324,000 drivers who hold Class A commercial driver licenses in that state who pick up or drop off loads at ports but also to out-of-state truckers who bring freight into or out of Florida’s ports.

For the full story, see the Dec. 3 print edition of Transport Topics. Subscribe today.