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.
CN Rail Offer for K.C. Southern to Fall Under Stricter Rules
Canadian National Railway Co.’s proposal to acquire Kansas City Southern will be judged under stricter regulations adopted in 2001, the U.S. regulator said in an expected decision that lays the ground rules for what would be the first major rail merger in more than two decades.
Diesel Rises 6.3¢ to $3.249; Gas Tops $3
The national average price of a gallon of diesel climbed 6.3 cents to $3.249, according to Energy Information Administration data, in the third straight increase for trucking's main fuel.
Ford Visit Offers Symbolic Backdrop for Biden’s EV Agenda
President Joe Biden’s planned visit May 18 to the Dearborn, Mich., Ford Motor Co. Rouge Electric Vehicle Center that will build an electric version of the F-150 pickup will showcase what experts say is a powerfully symbolic example of a zero-emission vehicle with mass market appeal, built in the U.S. by union workers.
US Chamber Transportation Head: Infrastructure Talks Must Result in Action
Infrastructure policy negotiations between the White House and Capitol Hill are expected to intensify, and the transportation community is sounding increasingly optimistic about a compromise being reached. Here's your Capitol Agenda look at the week ahead for trucking on Capitol Hill.
The World Economy Is Suddenly Running Low on Everything
A year ago, as the pandemic ravaged country after country and economies shuddered, consumers were the ones panic-buying. Today, on the rebound, it’s companies furiously trying to stock up.
May 17, 2021Congressional Policymakers Unveil Local Infrastructure Legislation
Legislation to help localities gain access to funding for infrastructure projects was recently introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives.
Advocates Seek Funding for California Hydrogen Infrastructure
In a letter to Gov. Gavin Newsom, executives of 25 multinational companies — including Cellcentric, Cummins and Nikola Motor Co. — called for major new investments in hydrogen infrastructure in California.
May 17, 2021Rail Industry Defends Safety Record Amid Staffing Cuts
OMAHA, Neb. — Even as railroads are operating longer freight trains that sometimes stretch for miles, the companies have drastically reduced staffing levels, prompting unions to warn that moves meant to increase profits could endanger safety and even result in disasters.
EU, US Reach Truce on Metal Tariffs Ahead of Biden Visit
The European Union agreed to avoid escalating its dispute with the U.S. over metal tariffs, sparing iconic products such as bourbon whiskey and Harley-Davidson motorbikes from a doubling of EU duties next month.
Biden Infrastructure Plan’s Chances Gain as GOP Preps Offer
President Joe Biden’s prospects for passing a major infrastructure bill through Congress with bipartisan support — seen unlikely in the wake of his Democrat-only pandemic-relief package in March — are now rising, though disagreements over funding still could scrap a deal.