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.
FMCSA Releases New Medical Examiner’s Handbook
More than eight years in the making, federal trucking regulators have finally approved a new — albeit scaled down — version of the 2024 Medical Examiner’s Handbook.
EPA Tightens Standards for Soot From Tailpipes, Smokestacks
The Biden administration is setting tougher standards for soot pollution, saying that reducing fine particle matter from industrial sources could prevent thousands of deaths a year.
US, EU Discuss Semiconductors, Cybersecurity, Supply Chain
The U.S. and European Union agreed to increase raw material sourcing for semiconductors and better align mutual cybersecurity protocols for infrastructure and businesses.
US Oil Output Expected to Flatline Until 2025
The U.S. sees oil production flatlining for most of this year before reaching a new record in early 2025. That would ease concerns about a supply glut that has weighed on prices.
Yellow Repays $700M COVID-Era Treasury Loan Plus Interest
Yellow repaid a $700 million loan it received from the Treasury Department through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act, the bankrupt less-than-truckload carrier said.
FHWA Awards Grants to Develop Charging, Hydrogen Stations
Eyeing heavy truck emissions, the FHWA has awarded nearly half of $622.57 million in new infrastructure grants to megawatt and kilowatt charging and hydrogen fueling projects.
Congress Passes Bill to Protect Moving Privacy
Legislation designed to protect people’s personal information during a move was recently cleared by Congress for President Joe Biden’s signature.
Diesel Price Rises 3.2¢ to $3.899 a Gallon
The national average diesel price bumped up 3.2¢ to $3.899 a gallon, according to Energy Information Administration data for the week of Feb. 5.
Railroads Challenging New Ohio Minimum Staffing Law
COLUMBUS, Ohio — A federal judge could soon rule on an industry challenge of a state railroad safety law passed in the wake of the East Palestine, Ohio, derailment in 2023.
FMCSA to Delay Heavy Truck Speed Limiters Proposal Until May
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is delaying until May a controversial proposal to require speed limiters on heavy-duty trucks, according to a regulatory update.