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.
ISM Services Index Rises in March
The Institute for Supply Management’s nonmanufacturing index rose to 53.1 in March from 51.6 the prior month, the Tempe, Ariz.-based group said April 3.
April 3, 2014FMCSA Shuts Down Illinois Carrier
Federal transportation safety regulators ordered an Illinois trucking company to cease its commercial operations after an investigation found drivers were on the road for long stretches of time that posed an “imminent hazard to public safety.”
Trucking Exec Tells Congress Hazmat Changes Needed
Trucking executive William Downey told the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee on April 2 that changes are needed to improve the safety and security of hazardous material shipments.
April 3, 2014Ryan Budget Calls Highway Trust Fund a ‘Priority’; Would Allow States to Fund Highway Projects
Transfers to the federal Highway Trust Fund from the general fund would have to be offset by savings in accounts elsewhere in the budget, under a proposal offered by House Budget Chairman Paul Ryan (R-Wis.).
Kentucky Legislators Vote Unanimously to Protect Truckers
Kentucky lawmakers have passed a bill that would protect truckers from having to assume all liability for accidents regardless of whether they are to blame.
Factory Orders Rise 1.6% in February
Factory orders increased 1.6% in February, the Commerce Department reported April 2.
April 2, 2014Ontario Orders 3% Biodiesel Mandate
Starting April 1, the provincial government in Ontario is requiring that trucking’s main fuel sold there be at least 3% biodiesel.
Institute Takes Closer Look At States’ Gas Tax
As state and federal transportation officials scramble to secure funding sources to repair aging infrastructure, two timely fact sheets released by the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy on April 1 highlight what states have done with their gas tax system over the years.
FMCSA Shuts Down Texas Carrier
A Texas-based motor carrier was shut down April 1 for what the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration said was a disregard for safety regulations and endangering the lives of its drivers, passengers and the public.
Manufacturing Index Rises in March
The Institute for Supply Management’s index increased to 53.7 in March from 53.2 a month earlier, the Tempe, Ariz.-based group reported April 1. Readings above 50 indicate growth.
April 1, 2014