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.
Elaine Chao Emphasizes Need for Infrastructure, Safety Funds for Rural Areas
The subject of upgrading the nation’s infrastructure is an important one for Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao, including assurance that rural areas receive equal treatment relative to metropolitan areas when funds are distributed.
US Air Travelers Dip Below 100,000 in Worst-Ever Free Fall
Almost every day over the past three weeks the number of people flying in the U.S. has reached a record low as the pandemic kept people home. But on April 7, the levels crossed a stark dividing line: fewer than 100,000 people.
GM Secures $490 Million US Contract to Make Ventilators
The U.S awarded General Motors Co. and its partner Ventec Life Systems a $489.4 million contract to make 30,000 ventilators by the end of August, finalizing a deal that briefly was a point of contention for President Donald Trump.
Activity at US Ports Plummets as Coronavirus Slows World Economy
Activity at ports tracked by the Global Port Tracker fell in February to the lowest level in five years.
UPS Manages Airlift of Health Care Supplies for FEMA
UPS launched a two-week operation to run 25 cargo flights carrying masks, gloves, surgical gowns and other equipment for the health care industry under the federal government’s Project Airbridge.
FedEx CEO Fred Smith Takes 91% Cut in Salary for Six Months
FedEx Corp. said Chairman and CEO Fred Smith is taking a salary cut, effective April 1, from $115,402 per month to $10,728 per month through Sept. 30.
Ship Crews Stuck in Lockdown Strain Global Supply Chains
Port restrictions and canceled flights are straining the ability to replace seafarers on board ships, further weakening global supply chains already snarled by the coronavirus pandemic.
April 7, 2020Stakeholders Tell Congress, Governors: CDLs, Permits Need to Be Processed
To avert a potential truck driver shortage during the coronavirus emergency, a coalition of large businesses and trade groups has urged Congress and the nation’s governors to implement procedures that would allow new drivers to more quickly obtain commercial learner permits and commercial driver licenses.
GAO’s Recommendations on NTSB’s ‘Most Wanted List’ Prompt Action
The head of the National Transportation Safety Board agreed more transparency would improve the public’s understanding of a high-profile report after a federal watchdog recommended better access to its methodology.
Congress, White House Reach High for Next Virus Bill
Congressional leaders are jolting ahead with another coronavirus rescue package as President Donald Trump indicated that Americans will need more aid during the stark pandemic and economic shutdown.