FMCSA Seeks Public Input on Mexican Carrier for Cross-Border Program

Federal transportation safety regulators are asking the public to comment this month as they consider whether to approve a Mexican motor carrier’s request to operate in the United States beyond the border region with Mexico.

Tijuana-based Importaciones y Distribuciones Latina America Gami SA de CV, or IDLA, is seeking to take part in a longhaul cross-border program regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

In documents submitted to FMCSA, the firm said it would operate vehicles weighing more than 10,000 pounds and said its drivers would adhere to the agency’s guidelines, including rules on safety and hours of operations. If approved, IDLA, which documents show is administered by Hector Francisco Serrano Artalejo, would be the 14th Mexican firm allowed to participate in the cross-border program.

The pilot program is part of FMCSA’s implementation of provisions in the North American Free Trade Agreement that allow Mexico-based firms to haul goods beyond the U.S. border zone. In 2011 the FMCSA announced its intent to proceed with the pilot program, which looks to test the safety of Mexican carriers.

People interested in commenting on IDLA’s application may do so on the federal government’s website www.regulations.gov or by contacting the agency directly before April 21. The request for comment is a requirement of a 2007 law.