Land Line Now, March 18, 2020.
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Legislation to help those exposed to coronavirus and to alleviate possible economic damage is now in the Senate, while a follow-up plan is being developed.
I. Today’s news with Terry Scruton
The president closes the border between the U.S. and Canada over COVID-19; The FMCSA expands its national emergency waivers; and here’s a tip: let’s be nice to each other – it’s today’s news in trucking.
II. Pot or hemp – test can tell
Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a scanner that police can use to instantly detect if a truck’s load is hemp or marijuana. Also, we’ll listen in as a Senate subcommittee cross-examines Finch Fulton. He’s the nominee for assistant secretary of policy for the U.S. Department of Transportation.
III. Things are bad, but freight is up and fuel is down
Freight and rates see an uptick thanks to increased buying amid the coronavirus outbreak, but it may not last. Also, diesel prices continue their downward spiral as the oil market plunges over fears of lowered demand.
IV. Coronavirus relief moving through Congress
Legislation to provide help for those exposed to coronavirus and to alleviate possible damage to the economy is now in the Senate, while a follow-up plan is being developed by the White House and Congress.
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Links, email addresses, phone numbers and more information
- The FMCSA has expanded its emergency declaration. The order gives truckers hauling emergency COVID-19 relief loads an exemption to the hours of service. Click here for complete details.
- OOIDA has set up an online resource to provide direct access to information needed to operate in the current coronavirus pandemic. Click on the COVID-19 – Facts for Truckers logo on the OOIDA or Land Line Media websites.
- OOIDA members are receiving scam letters from companies citing the state of emergency as a reason to get your paperwork done now and offering to file that paperwork for a hefty fee. If you questions you can call OOIDA’s Business Services Department at 816-229-5791.
- There’s been a truck parking breakthrough in Washington.
- Starting Thursday, Jon Osburn and OOIDA’s tour truck, the Spirit of the American Trucker, will be at the Petro in Glendale, Ky. That’s located at Exit 86 on Interstate 65. Find the upcoming Spirit stops here.
- Get more information about the freight market.
- Keep up to date on fuel prices.
- It’s never too late to share your views with lawmakers. You can do that on the Fighting for Truckers website