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.
Mayors, Ambassadors Discuss Advancing NAFTA Replacement Deal
WASHINGTON — Officials representing the United States, Canada and Mexico expressed support for advancing the treaty that is meant to serve as a replacement for the North American Free Trade Agreement.
TRB Truck Size and Weight Panel Faces Political Headwinds Over Heavier, Larger Trucks
WASHINGTON — Members of the Transportation Research Board’s Truck Size and Weight Committee said they continue to face stiff headwinds to garner public and political support for heavier and longer trucks, despite evidence that demonstrates the potential for reducing carbon emissions and increasing cargo efficiency.
Opinion: Trucking Can Help Fight Human Trafficking
January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month, but the trucking industry must commit all year to continuing to address the human trafficking crisis happening in our communities from coast to coast, says Sherri Garner Brumbaugh.
Texas, California, Florida Best States for Job Creation in 2018, Labor Stats Show
Texas, California and Florida created more than 200,000 jobs in 2018, according to employment data released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Mayors Call for Infrastructure Deal, Federal Cooperation
WASHINGTON — Pursuing a federal infrastructure package is a top priority for mayors this year, according to Steve Benjamin, mayor of Columbia, S.C.
Zero Growth This Quarter Possible With Shutdown, White House Says
White House Council of Economic Advisers Chairman Kevin Hassett said that if the partial government shutdown extends through March, there’s a chance of zero economic expansion this quarter, though “humongous” growth would follow once federal agencies reopen.
Missouri Rep. Sam Graves Consistent in Support of VMT Funding Approach
When policymakers kick off debate on “pay-fors” for a long-term infrastructure plan, the vehicle-miles-traveled funding approach that seems to be gaining bipartisan support in Congress is expected to play a major role.
NFI/Cal Cartage to Close Port of L.A. Facility After Union Battle, Controversies
NFI Industries announced plans to close its 600,000-square-foot warehouse at the Port of Los Angeles in the wake of a decision by the Los Angeles City Council not to extend the lease on the 85-acre facility.
Japan Exports Sink 3.8% in December, Hit by China Slowdown
TOKYO — Japan’s exports fell 3.8% in December from a year earlier, hit by slowing demand in China, as the trade balance shifted back into deficit for the year, the Japanese government reported Jan. 23.
In Week 5 of Shutdown, Votes Set Up Political Test for Senate
WASHINGTON — Senate leaders agreed to hold votes this week on dueling proposals to reopen shuttered federal agencies, forcing a political reckoning for senators grappling with the longest shutdown in U.S. history: Side with President Donald Trump or vote to temporarily end the shutdown and keep negotiating.