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.
Congressional Transportation Leaders Tout White House Focus on Equity
Congressional transportation policy leaders endorsed the Biden administration’s aim at improving access to freight and commuter corridors through an enhanced focus on equity.
Biden to Require US-Made Steel, Iron for Infrastructure
WASHINGTON — The Biden administration is taking a key step toward ensuring that federal dollars will support U.S. manufacturing — issuing requirements for how projects funded by the $1 trillion bipartisan infrastructure package source their construction material.
Congress Seeks Compromise to Boost Computer Chip Industry
WASHINGTON — A global computer chip shortage has made it harder for consumers to get their hands on cars, computers and other modern-day necessities, so Congress is looking to boost chip manufacturing and research in the United States with billions of dollars from the federal government.
Rivian’s EV Factory Remains Constrained by Chip Shortage
Rivian Automotive Inc.’s “launch mode” is impressive — at least on its trucks. The assembly lines are perfectly capable of cruising speed; they just need more computer chips.
NHTSA Opens Two Defect Investigations Into Tesla Autopilot
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which has the authority to force recalls, has opened two formal defect investigations that could ultimately lead Tesla Inc. to have to retrofit cars and restrict use of Autopilot in situations it still can’t safely handle.
Texas Halts Inspections That Led to Border Gridlock
AUSTIN, Texas — Texas Gov. Greg Abbott on April 15 repealed his traffic-clogging immigration order that backed up commercial trucks at the U.S.-Mexico border, after a week of intensifying backlash and fears of deepening economic losses.
Trucking Stakeholders Offer Advice, Caution on EPA Proposal
The trucking industry urged federal regulators to consider how a proposal to tighten emissions limits on engines will affect motor carriers, as they’re the ones who will ultimately deploy the equipment subject to the new rules.
ATA Calls on Texas Governor to Stop ‘Senseless Inspections’
The head of American Trucking Associations is calling on Texas Gov. Greg Abbott to end the truck inspection initiative he recently launched at the state’s border with Mexico, chastising the plan for the crippling effect it is having on the economy, and trucking in particular.
Factory Output Rises More Than Forecast
U.S. factory production rose in March by more than forecast, marking the third straight month of gains that show steady progress for manufacturers against a backdrop of gradually improving supply chains.
Port Completes Project to Deepen Savannah River
SAVANNAH, Ga. — After decades of political wrangling and environmental roadblocks and nearly seven years of dredging muck from the river bottom, one of Georgia’s most anticipated economic development projects — the nearly $1 billion deepening of the Savannah River channel — finally is complete.