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.
During Shutdown, NTSB Didn’t Send Investigators to Many Fatal Accidents
The National Transportation Safety Board said that during the 35-day partial government shutdown it was unable to dispatch investigators to multiple instances of fatal accidents.
US Confirms China Trade Talks to Begin
The Trump administration confirmed it will hold two days of talks this week in Washington to discuss structural changes to China’s economy and Beijing’s pledge to buy more American goods.
Oil Dips as China Slowdown Signals Demand Drop
Crude skidded to its worst loss in a month as disappointing corporate profit forecasts stoked concern about the economy, bruising a market already anxious about booming American oil supplies.
Infrastructure Missing in Talks Between Trump, Hill Leaders
Talks between President Donald Trump and congressional leaders seem to be lacking one key ingredient: infrastructure. Here's your Capitol Agenda look at the week ahead for trucking on Capitol Hill.
Forever Stamp Price Increase to 55 Cents Takes Effect
The cost of a Forever stamp jumped 10% this weekend — from 50 cents to 55 cents — as the U.S. Postal Service continues to struggle financially.
Infrastructure Bill a Priority in 2019, Rep. Drew Ferguson Says
ATLANTA — A major new infrastructure bill is doable in 2019, despite the lack of new federal revenue to fund it, said U.S. Rep. Drew Ferguson (R-Ga.), speaking at the 28th annual meeting of SMC3 Jump Start on Jan. 28.
ATD Announces Coalition to Repeal Federal Excise Tax on Heavy-Duty Trucks
SAN FRANCISCO — American Truck Dealers announced a new industry coalition to push for the repeal of the 12% federal excise tax on heavy-duty trucks.
House, Senate Pass Bill to End Shutdown, Fund Government Through Feb. 15
Congress voted to end the 35-day partial government shutdown after President Donald Trump capitulated to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and agreed to reopen federal agencies without any guarantee of money for his proposed border wall.
January 25, 2019Fleets Eye Camera Systems to Replace Mirrors
Camera monitor systems designed to replace a truck’s conventional side mirrors are getting favorable reviews from drivers, according to executives at fleets that are testing the new technology, which also recently received a nod of approval from federal regulators.
January 25, 2019Freight Railroads Record Progress on PTC Implementation, AAR Says
Large freight railroads functioned with the use of automatic braking technology for 83.2% of miles required by law, the Association of American Railroads announced Jan. 24. That proves the Class I railroads met 2018 requirements, and they are expected to finalize the implementation of positive train control technology by the final deadline of Dec. 31, 2020.