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.
Port Leaders at Legislative Summit Want Permitting Reform
WASHINGTON — U.S. port leaders say the permitting and government review process to get projects approved needs to be improved.
Manufacturing Activity Expands by Most Since June 2022
U.S. manufacturing activity expanded by the most since mid-2022 as production and factory employment growth accelerated along with measures of inflation.
Unemployment Applications Dip to 210,000
WASHINGTON — The number of Americans signing up for unemployment benefits fell slightly last week, another sign that the labor market remains strong and most workers enjoy job security.
Senators Introduce TSA Clearance Bill
Legislation meant to expedite commercial drivers’ applications for security credentials was recently introduced by a bipartisan group of senators.
Fed Holds Fast on Interest Rate, Still Sees 3 Cuts in 2024
WASHINGTON — Federal Reserve officials kept their benchmark interest rate unchanged but signaled March 20 that they still expect to cut their key interest rate three times in 2024.
EPA Tweaks Emissions Rules Proposed for Cars, Light Trucks
The Biden administration on March 20 announced new emissions standards for automobiles and light- and medium-duty pickup trucks.
DOT Marks FLOW’s Two-Year Anniversary
The FLOW information-sharing forum that was launched in response to pandemic-related supply chain woes is marking its second anniversary by focusing on inland freight initiatives.
Biden Touts $8.5 Billion Chips Investment for Intel
CHANDLER, Ariz. — President Joe Biden celebrated an agreement to provide Intel with up to $8.5 billion in direct funding and $11 billion in loans for computer chip plants around the country.
Minnesota Adding 16 Truck Parking Spots Along Interstate 94
Minnesota will add 16 truck parking spots at two eastbound rest areas along I-94 in an $81.5 million package of projects to improve the state’s freight network and address parking issues.
Federal Judge Denies CTA Challenge to California AB 5
A federal district court has delivered a setback to the California Trucking Association as the group continues efforts to block the state’s enforcement of the controversial AB 5 law.