Department of Labor Issues Final Rule on Independent Contractor Status
The U.S. Department of Labor on Jan. 6 issued a final rule revising its interpretation of independent contractor status under the Fair Labor Standards Act that it said will “promote certainty for stakeholders, reduce litigation and encourage innovation in the economy.”
January 6, 2021For First Time in Five Years, US Gas Mileage Down, Emissions Up
A new government report says gas mileage for new vehicles dropped and pollution increased in model year 2019 for the first time in five years.
January 6, 2021US Imports No Saudi Crude Oil for First Time in 35 Years
The U.S. didn’t import any Saudi crude the week of Dec. 28 for the first time in 35 years, a reversal from just months ago when the Kingdom threatened to upend the American energy industry by unleashing a tsunami of exports into a market decimated by the pandemic.
January 6, 2021Maine Lawmakers Petition FMCSA Regarding Lobster Transport
In an effort to ease the commercial transport of lobster, a group of Maine lawmakers submitted a request to federal government officials asking to clarify the definition of “livestock” in a recently issued interim final rule.
January 6, 2021Industry Comments Support FHWA Proposal on Infrastructure Design Standards
Public comments submitted to the Federal Highway Administration regarding a recent proposal that would allow more flexibility with design standards when repairing highways and interstates reflect an overwhelming show of support from industry groups and transportation agencies.
January 6, 2021TRB Hosting Virtual Annual Conference
The coronavirus pandemic’s impact on transportation modes, the role of transit, and technological advancements will dominate this year’s annual conference of the Transportation Research Board.
January 5, 2021Former ATA Chairman Dave Manning Retires From TCW
After more than three decades working for Nashville, Tenn.-based motor carrier TCW — including a more than 20-year stint as its president — as well as a year as chairman of American Trucking Associations, Dave Manning has decided to retire.
January 5, 2021FMCSA Proposes to Add Truck Rear Underride Guards to Safety Checklist
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has issued a proposed rule amending federal safety regulations to specifically add rear impact guards as a required item on the list of annual inspections for motor carriers and roadside inspectors.
January 5, 2021US Manufacturing Gauge Expands at Fastest Pace Since 2018
A measure of U.S. manufacturing expanded in December at the fastest pace in more than two years, bolstered by a pickup in new orders and the strongest growth in production since 2011.
January 5, 2021Diesel Continues Upward Trend, Rises 0.5¢ to $2.640
The last days of 2020 and the first few of 2021 continued the same trend, with diesel prices rising nationwide.
January 4, 2021