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.
Workers Cheered Upon Return to South Dakota Pork Plant
Employees at a Smithfield pork processing plant in South Dakota where a coronavirus outbreak infected more than 800 people were greeted at work May 20 with thank you signs, cheers and waves from about a dozen area residents.
May 20, 2020Government Groups Launch Truck Parking Survey for Northeast Region
Truck parking challenges in the Northeast amid the coronavirus pandemic — due in part to shipment type or route changes — are being surveyed by a group of 13 transportation departments and metropolitan planning organizations.
Preliminary Work to Begin on 40 Highway Projects in Kansas
Preliminary engineering work will commence on 40 highway modernization and expansion projects in Kansas, Gov. Laura Kelly and Secretary of Transportation Julie Lorenz recently announced.
Ghosn’s Suspected Escape Accomplices Arrested in Boston
Two men charged in Japan with aiding the escape of Carlos Ghosn were arrested in Massachusetts the morning of May 20 and are being held for possible extradition.
Chinese Revival Draws Rare Shipments of Alaskan, Canadian Oil
Canadian and Alaskan crude that normally travels to the U.S. West Coast is finding a market in China, where demand is almost back to pre-pandemic levels.
Democrats Protest Removal of DOT Acting Inspector General
WASHINGTON — Congressional Democrats are protesting President Donald Trump’s decision to remove the Transportation Department’s acting inspector general, the latest in a string of actions by Trump to fire or replace government watchdogs.
US Extends Border Closings With Canada, Mexico; Trucking Remains Exempt
U.S. and Canadian officials reached an agreement to keep the 5,525-mile border closed to nonessential traffic until June 21.
Infrastructure Funding in Limbo as House, Senate Weigh Options
The leadership for Senate Republicans and House Democrats announced differing legislative strategies during an economic and health crisis that has prompted several transportation stakeholders to urge emergency assistance.
Trump to Announce Rules for Broad $19 Billion Farm Bailout
President Donald Trump is set to unveil rules May 19 for a $19 billion coronavirus farm aid package covering a broad swath of American agriculture that producers can begin claiming by next week.