WASHINGTON — The head of the U.S. Coast Guard said last week that it makes sense for truck drivers to carry a single identification indicating they’ve passed a criminal background check rather than possess multiple IDs.

American Trucking Associations is working to win government approval for a universal security card that would allow truck drivers access to airports, seaports, distribution centers, loading docks and any freight area where heightened security measures are in effect.

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.

Initial Mexican reaction to the agreement between Congress and the Bush administration that is expected to lead to the opening of the U.S.-Mexico border to international trucking was muted, mainly because details of the agreement were not immediately available.

Inspectors for the Department of Transportation would have greater authority to search and seize hazardous materials during shipment under legislation introduced in the House and Senate on behalf of the Bush administration.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Sleep researchers have again asked the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration to approve a demonstration program they say could provide tremendous benefits to trucking companies.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — William J. Canary, president of American Trucking Associations, told members of the Truckload Carriers Association Oct. 27 that although security issues have leaped to the top of the agenda, the industry must not neglect other regulatory issues that affect trucking.

The food industry has implemented security procedures to protect truck cargoes against contamination by terrorists, according to industry spokesmen.

Smog levels in the United States declined by 10% between 1991 and 2000 due in part to cleaner truck emissions, the Environmental Protection Agency announced last week.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Now, more than ever, we rely on you to keep (America) moving,” U.S. Vice President Richard Cheney told truckers assembled for the kickoff of the American Trucking Associations’ 2001 Management Conference & Exhibition.