The public comment period on the Department of Transportation’s revised program to allow Mexican trucks access to U.S. highways closed last Friday. U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood says – U.S. and Mexican government officials have met in recent months to set final details of the deal. The final rules could be announced in a matter of weeks.
Senator Jay Rockefeller called on LaHood and U.S. Trade Representative Ron Kirk to write tough regulations to ensure Mexican trucks are safe and don’t jeopardize U.S. jobs. Rockefeller added, – I need assurances this new plan will meet those criteria before I can support this initiative. LaHood says the final agreement would address U.S. lawmakers’ concerns.
To participate in the program, Mexican carriers would go through a three-phase process to gain operating authority in the United States. In addition to a 28-page application and other requirements, Mexican trucks and drivers would be subject to all U.S., state and local laws and electronic monitoring devices such as electronic onboard recorders would be attached to Mexican trucks.
Source: NAFB News Service
Posted by Haylie Shipp
