Government
Transport Topics government and regulatory coverage keeps managers of a highly-regulated industry aware of the policy decisions that can shape their businesses. Covering both the legislative and regulatory aspects of policy-making, at both the state and national levels, the news in this category includes looks at infrastructure, hours of service, emissions rules, funding measures, leadership appointments, and more. Readers can follow what’s happening in Congress, at the Department of Transportation and the Federal Motor Carrier Administration, and in state and local governments.
EPA Designates Eco-Friendly Mud Flaps
A new aerodynamic mud flap has garnered eco-friendly status by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
October 28, 2016Donald Trump's $1 Trillion Infrastructure Plan Relies on Private Funding
Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump has revealed details of a $1 trillion plan for infrastructure spending over a decade that relies heavily on private funding.
October 27, 2016Eno Unveils State Transportation Ballot Measures Database
Taxpayers and transportation stakeholders have a new online tool at their disposal for researching state ballot measures pertaining to transportation investments.
October 27, 2016ATA President Chris Spear: Congress Is Better Forum for Autonomous Technology Discussions
WASHINGTON — The trucking industry’s chief representative on Oct. 26 called on Congress to take the lead on policy decisions regarding self-driving commercial technology.
Smaller US Trade Deficit Adds to Chances of Bigger GDP Rebound
Tracking estimates of third-quarter U.S. growth are rising because of a shrinking merchandise trade deficit, though a drop in September imports shows a step back in underlying demand in the economy.
Advisory Panel Asks FMCSA to 'Get a Seat at the Table' on Autonomous Truck Issues
A Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration advisory committee formally asked the agency to get “proactive and involved” with a Department of Transportation inter-agency group to get the commercial motor vehicle industry “a seat at the table” to work on the design, safety and regulatory aspects of autonomous trucks.
Wisconsin Receives $1.615 Million in FHWA Emergency Funds After Floods
U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx announced on Oct. 25 that the Federal Highway Administration is making $1.615 million in emergency relief funds available to Wisconsin to help begin repairs to roads and bridges damaged by major flooding in August and September in Buffalo and Trempealeau counties.
Consumer Confidence Retreated More Than Forecast in October
Consumer confidence declined more than forecast in October, as households became less upbeat about the economy and labor market, figures from the New York-based Conference Board showed Oct. 25.
Warn Drivers About Drug Mix Side Effects, FMCSA Board Urges
Members of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s Medical Review Board on Oct. 25 voted unanimously to ask primary care physicians and certified medical examiners to consider if drivers are qualified to operate trucks and buses if they are prescribed a mix of narcotics and depressants.
Idaho Trucker Chosen to Deliver Capitol Christmas Tree in Kenworth T680
Twin Falls, Idaho, truck driver and business owner Gary Amoth has been selected to drive the truck that will take the U.S. Capitol Christmas tree from McCall, Idaho, to Washington, D.C., in November.