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.
Trump’s Initial Moves Elicit Praise, Caution From Trucking
In his inaugural address as president of the United States, Donald Trump vowed to renegotiate trade agreements, boost the economy by reducing regulations, clamp down on immigration and spend more money to upgrade the nation’s infrastructure.
Daily Briefings from Transport Topics
Transport Topics has partnered with Spoken Layer to make one-minute daily briefings available on all your smart devices. Simply say “Alexa, play Transport Topics” or “Okay Google, talk to Transport Topics” to get the day’s biggest trucking headlines.
Congress Unlikely to Address Infrastructure During Trump’s First 100 Days, GOP Says
Republican leaders have yet to figure out when to proceed with legislation that would modernize freight corridors, structurally deficient bridges and old pipelines, Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), policy chairman for the party in the Senate, told reporters on Jan. 25.
Eno Center President: States ‘Not Waiting for Washington to Act’ on Infrastructure
States will continue to adopt funding programs meant to pay for big-ticket infrastructure projects amid federal inaction on a long-term plan, the chief of the Eno Center for Transportation said Jan. 27.
Canadian Pacific's Wallace Takes Leave, Could Join Harrison Atop CSX
Mark Wallace, chief of staff at Canadian Pacific Railway Ltd., was put on a paid leave of absence on Jan. 27, prompting more speculation that Wallace and outgoing CEO Hunter Harrison will attempt to take over the reins at rival railroad CSX Corp. through private investor Paul Hilal of Mantle Ridge.
January 27, 2017Ontario International Airport Courts Chinese Versions of FedEx, UPS
Top executives at Ontario International Airport on Jan. 26 outlined their efforts to attract major Chinese courier companies to use ONT as the major gateway and hub to the U.S. and Latin American marketplaces, similar to UPS Inc. and FedEx Corp.’s domestic e-commerce operations with Amazon.
US Economic Growth Cools on Biggest Trade Drag Since 2010
U.S. economic growth slowed last quarter more than forecast on the biggest drag from trade in six years and more moderate consumer spending. However, business investment picked up, which may be a harbinger for faster expansion in 2017.
Consumer Sentiment Increased in January to 13-Year High
Consumer confidence rose in January to a 13-year high, reflecting ongoing optimism about post-election fiscal policies and their impact on economic growth.
To Toll or Not to Toll Is Question for Trump Infrastructure Plan
The Brent Spence Bridge between Ohio and Kentucky carries twice as much traffic as it was built to handle — it’s 54 years old and functionally obsolete.
Funded Miami Interstate Project Makes Trump’s Infrastructure List
A preliminary list of 50 public construction projects that the Trump administration is considering including in a promised initiative to renew the country’s deteriorating infrastructure has just one Florida project on it, but that job — the rebuilding of Interstate 395 in downtown Miami — is already budgeted and moving rapidly forward.
Former Transportation Chief James Burnley Foresees Funding to Dominate Early DOT Agenda
WASHINGTON — Crafting a meaningful funding proposal for the network of roads, pipelines and freight corridors is likely to consume the first few weeks of Elaine Chao’s tenure as secretary of transportation, former Secretary James Burnley said Jan. 26.