Government

A nominee for a senior policy post at the U.S. Department of Transportation was recently confirmed by the U.S. Senate while other DOT nominees await votes before the full chamber or in committee.

Applications for U.S. state unemployment insurance fell last week to a fresh pandemic low, indicating that dismissals are easing as business conditions improve and firms look to increase headcounts.

The Minneapolis City Council’s Transportation and Public Works Committee on July 14 voted in favor of amendments introducing gradual fines, to accompany a proposed ban on truck parking in the city.

Road usage charge initiatives at the state level can offer models for a federal program, which should be formulated sooner rather than later, according to experts gathered at a transportation funding event.

WASHINGTON — As Congress eyes an infrastructure package, a coalition of transportation agencies and Amtrak on July 14 released a 15-year plan of rail improvements for the congested Northeast Corridor that would boost daily train routes and significantly speed travel on Acela express lines.

Mayors representing the country’s major cities are calling on members of Congress and the White House to approve big-picture policies meant to fund infrastructure projects for several years.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has issued a proposal to amend its regulations to increase the allowable area vehicle safety technology devices may be mounted on the interior of commercial motor vehicle windshields.

WASHINGTON — Senate Democrats say they have reached a budget agreement that envisions spending an enormous $3.5 trillion over the coming decade, paving the way for their drive to pour federal resources into climate change, health care and family service programs sought by President Joe Biden.

Oil rose to the highest price in more than 2 1/2 years as prospects of an imminent flood of crude exports from Iran and other major producers waned while the International Energy Agency warned of a deepening supply crunch.

State lawmakers have been active in pursuing bills to support infrastructure work, but the construction market could see a further boost if federal leaders can agree on a legislative package, according to transportation experts.