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.
Tesla Owners Sue Company Over Monopolizing Parts and Repairs
Tesla was sued by customers who claim they’ve had to pay exorbitant prices and endure long waits for repairs due to Tesla’s monopolization of replacement parts and maintenance services.
Budget Request Includes $951 Million for FMCSA
Federal commercial transportation operations would receive nearly $1 billion under a fiscal 2024 budget request the White House unveiled this month.
Retail Sales Slip 0.4% in February After January’s Burst
America’s consumers trimmed their spending in February after a buying burst in January, as retail sales slipped 0.4% with declines across multiple industries.
Senate CDL Bill Spotlights Veterans
Legislation that would ensure veterans benefits are approved without delay at new commercial driving schools was recently introduced in the U.S. Senate.
DOT Announces $2.5 Billion Grant for Charging Infrastructure
The government announced $2.5 billion in grants for charging stations and alternative fueling infrastructure, partly to increase access along highway corridors for longhaul trucking.
Uber, Lyft Get Positive Ruling in California Labor Case
App-based ride-hailing and delivery companies like Uber and Lyft can continue to treat their California drivers as independent contractors, a state appeals court ruled March 13.
Buttigieg, DOT Push Crackdown on Transportation Mergers
Transportation regulators are shifting how they view competition and will ensure airlines, railroads and others serve consumers, according to Secretary Pete Buttigieg.
Inflation Stays High in February, Complicating Fed’s Plans
WASHINGTON — U.S. consumer price increases eased from January to February but still indicated elevated inflation, posing a challenge for the Federal Reserve's interest rate plans.
Tesla Autopilot Doesn’t Live Up to Name, Buttigieg Says
Tesla Inc.’s "Autopilot" name for its trademark driver-assistance system lacks “common sense,” according to Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.
Diesel Down 3.5¢ to $4.247
The national average price for diesel slipped 3.5 cents to $4.247 a gallon, according to Energy Information Administration data released March 13.
March 13, 2023