Land Line Now, May 5, 2021.
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Will a tanker truck driver shortage cause empty pumps this summer? Our experts examine the facts and answers the basic questions.
I. Today’s news with Terry Scruton
A Coalition urges members of Congress to oppose increasing insurance minimums for truckers. The Department of Labor withdraws a rule on independent contractors. And celebrating Star Wars Day on the highway.
II. Tanker truck driver shortage? Our experts weight in
The U.S. could be headed for fuel shortages this summer, but not because of a drop in supply. Groups say it’s due to a lack of qualified tanker truck drivers. We’ll have a roundtable discussion on whether there is a fuel hauler shortfall, and, if so, its possible short- and long-term effects and what can be done to reverse the trend.
III. A good time to be a flatbedder
Freight and rates are a mixed bag for van and reefer, but flatbed is booming.
IV. Bigger, heavier trucks? Highway bill may decide
Several of the largest carriers have pushed for years to increase the allowable size and weight of trucks on our highways, or to allow longer twin trailers. And for years, OOIDA has opposed the move. We’ll examine the issue – and a pilot program to test vehicle miles traveled taxes.
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Links, email addresses, phone numbers and more information
- The Pennsylvania DOT is hosting a virtual public meeting from now to June 1 to get public feedback on possible funding methods for roads and bridges – including a plan to add tolls to major bridges in the state. You can find more information, view the public meeting, and file your comments at the PennDOT website.
- The Iowa 80 Truck Stop will offer its first COVID-19 vaccination clinic from 2 to 4 p.m. on Monday. Get the details here.
- Marty Ellis and OOIDA’s tour truck, the Spirit of the American Trucker, are at the TA in Lodi, Ohio. That’s at Exit 209 off Interstates 71 and 76. You can find upcoming Spirit stops here.
- Get more information about the freight market. And you can find loads at OOIDA Members Edge.
- If you’ve been hauling COVID-19 vaccines across the country in recent weeks, we want to hear from you for a story we’re working on. Just send an email to LandLineNow@OOIDA.com and we’ll get back to you.
- OOIDA has an online resource to provide access to information needed to operate in the coronavirus pandemic. Click on the COVID-19 menu at the top of the page on the Land Line Media website.
- It’s helpful for our members to keep us apprised of conditions on the roads and any problems they encounter. If you have situations to report call OOIDA at 816-229-5791 or email Questions@OOIDA.com.
