Thursday, July 31, 2008
July 2008
Cross-Border trucking – Mark Reddig spoke to Rod Nofziger about the House Transportation Committee’s “mark-up” hearing today regarding HR 6630.
- To view the text of the bill, click here.
- To read OOIDA’s Call to Action about the bill, click here.
- To read a special report by Land Line Magazine, click here.
- To call any member of Congress, dial (202) 224-3121.
Air date: July 31, 2008.
Public-Private Partnership Senate hearing – Terry Scruton brought us highlights of a Senate hearing that examined the tax and financial aspects of highway privatization.
Air date: July 31, 2008.
- To read the Call to Action, click here.
- To read more by Land Line Magazine, click here.
- For truckers who will be on the road and who can’t attend the forum, written testimony will also be accepted. Comments can be mailed to:
Kelly Love, District Director
General O.O. Howard House
750
Vancouver, WA 98661 - Comments can also be submitted via e-mail to: kelly.love@mail.house.gov.
Air date: July 31, 2008.
State Update:
- To read about legislation in
- To read about legislation in
Air date: July 31, 2008.
TRUCC – In today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig spoke about the TRUCC Act. The fuel surcharge legislation is listed in the Senate as S.2910. The House version is HR 5977.
- You can read OOIDA’s two National Call to Action notices concerning TRUCC here and here.
- For tips on writing your members of Congress, click here.
- To get a fax number, e-mail address or street address to write your members of Congress, call the OOIDA Membership Department at 1-800-444-5791.
Air date: July 31, 2008.
ON THE LAND LINE NOW BLOG: ‘I’m Mad As Hell’ - Reed Black gives his view regarding what’s caused many of our problems.
Cross-Border Trucking – OOIDA has issued a national Call to Action concerning a bill, HR 6630, that would require the termination of the cross-border trucking pilot program by its anniversary, Sept. 6.
- You can read the Call to Action here.
- To view the text of the actual bill, click here.
- To read a Special Report by Land Line Magazine, click here.
- To call any member of Congress, dial (202) 224-3121.
- To get a fax number, e-mail address or street address to write your congressman, call the OOIDA Membership Department at 1-800-444-5791.
Air date: July 30, 2008.
AeroWing – Reed Black reported about a
World record – Reed Black spoke with OOIDA member Mike Hagan about setting a new world record for longest farm tractor wheelie. You can read more by Land Line Magazine here. Air date: July 30, 2008.
AASHTO bridge report –Reed Black spoke with John Horsley, executive director of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, about a recent study of
Air date: July 30, 2008.
State Update:
- To read about legislation in
- To read about legislation in
Air date: July 30, 2008.
Diesel update – Terry Scruton presented an update on the price of diesel fuel and crude oil.
- To read this week’s price report by Land Line Magazine, click here.
- To check the price today through ProMiles, click here.
- To see how to compute your own fuel surcharge through OOIDA’s online guide, click here.
Air date: July 30, 2008.
Diesel comments – If you have questions or a comment about diesel prices, or you’ve seen some interesting highs and lows at the pumps wherever you are, call our “Land Line Now” Diesel Price Line. Dial 1-800-324-6856, and then press 2 to record your message. This week, we’re also asking truckers who call the line to answer this question:
- “The town of
Air date: July 30, 2008.
Refer and Win - You could win a new set of Bridgestone tractor tires through OOIDA’s refer and win competition. That prize will go to the member who signs up the most new members between now and September 15th. For details, click here. Air date: July 30, 2008.
LISTEN ONLINE: Vehicle ratings - Reed Black reported on a plan by CARB to label every truck and car sold in
CDL Medical Certification – Terry Scruton brought us highlights of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee hearing concerning CDL medical certification.
- To read a Special Report by Land Line Magazine, click here.
- To hear the hearing from the committee’s Web site, click here.
- To read the written testimony of Rose A. McMurray, assistant administrator and chief safety officer of the FMCSA, click here.
Air date: July 29, 2008.
State Update –
- To read about legislation in
- To read about legislation in
Air date: July 29, 2008.
Mary Peters news conference – Mark Reddig spoke with Mike Joyce about a news conference U.S. Transportation Secretary Mary Peters held regarding her vision of transportation funding. To read more by Land Line Magazine, click here. Air date: July 29, 2008.
XM-Sirius Merger – Reed Black reported in today’s news about the FCC approving the XM-Sirius merger.
Air date: July 28, 2008.
UCR – Reed Black reported about the state of Oregon fining motor carriers who have failed to register with the Unified Carrier Registration Program as much as $427. The deadline was July 1, 2008.
- You can read more by Land Line Magazine here.
- OOIDA members who haven’t registered yet can do so by calling OOIDA’s Business Services Department at 1-800-444-5791;
- You can also register by visiting the UCR Web site here.
Air date: July 28, 2008.
Dragnet – Jami Jones and Charlie Morasch discussed crime in the trucking industry in a segment called Dragnet. You can read more in the August/September issue of Land Line Magazine. Air date: July 28, 2008.
Cisco lawsuit – In today’s Dragnet, Jami Jones and Charlie Morasch discussed a class-action civil lawsuit filed against Global Energy. The suit claims fuel and diesel sale discrepancies for up to the last 6 years. Nathan Williams, a
Member offer - OOIDA members Gordon Betts, Warren Riley, Kenny Adair, David Higgins, Roger Lehenbauer, Marvin Wolf, and Lonnie Brooks are sponsoring the membership cost for a total of 20 new people to join OOIDA. To take part, all you have to do is call our special member offer line. Just dial 1-800-324-6856, and press 3. The offer is open only to new, first-time members. Air date: July 28, 2008.
Truck Insurance – Terry Scruton talked with Ed Briley of OOIDA’s Truck Insurance Customer Service Department to review some common questions about truck insurance.
- You can visit the new OOIDA Truck Insurance Web site here.
- If you have a question about truck insurance, you can call 1-800-715-9369.
If you have a question about truck insurance you’d like answered on the air, you can call our comment line at 1-800-324-6856. - You can e-mail questions about insurance you’d like answered on the air here.
Air date: July 28, 2008.
John Ewing – Terry Scruton spoke with John Ewing of Truckers Helper about switching computers. For more information, check out Truckers Helper on the Web here. Air date: July 28, 2008.
TRUCC – Jami Jones spoke with Rod Nofziger about the TRUCC Act. The fuel surcharge legislation is listed in the Senate as S.2910. The House version is HR 5977.
You can read OOIDA’s two National Call to Action notices concerning TRUCC here and here.
- For tips on writing your members of Congress, click here.
- To call your
- To get a fax number, e-mail address or street address to write your members of Congress, call the OOIDA Membership Department at 1-800-444-5791.
Air date: July 28, 2008.
Parking time restrictions vs FMCSA 10 hour rest period – Terry Scruton spoke with Kip Hough of OOIDA Member Assistance Department about rest area 2 hour parking time restrictions vs the FMCSA’s 10 consecutive hours mandated rest period.
- If you have a question that you’d like answered on the air, you can call our comment line at 1-800-324-6856.
- You can contact the Member Assistance Department at 1-800-444-5791.
Air date: July 25, 2008.
Tire talk – Terry Scruton spoke with Kevin Rohlwing, Senior Vice President of Training for the Tire Industry Association with some tire repair advice. You can visit the Tire Industry Association Web site here. Air date: July 25, 2008.
Trucking Patch Collector Welcomes Contributions - Former trucking company employee Dave Ross has collected more than 9,000 sleeve and ball cap patches from trucking companies all over the world. He’s retired, but still collecting. If you run across one and want to send it to him:
Dave Ross
Air date: July 25, 2008.
State Update –
- To read about legislation in
- To read about legislation in
Air date: July 25, 2008.
Disposable people – In today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig talked about radiation-based security scanners used at border crossings. To read a blog by Mark Reddig, click here. July 25, 2008.
- Arizona halts citations for laptops until FMCSA issues TV opinion
- OOIDA member pleads not guilty; will fight AZ laptop citation
- FMCSA silent on Arizona enforcement of TV reg on laptops
Air date: July 25, 2008.
GAO Study – Reed Black spoke with Rod Nofziger about the Transportation and Infrastructure hearing on the Government Accountability Office study of DOT’s commercial driver’s medical process.
Air date: July 25, 2008.
GAO Study – Mark Reddig spoke with Rick Craig and Tom Weakley about the Government Accountability Office study of DOT’s commercial driver’s medical process.
Air date: July 24, 2008.
Strategic Petroleum Reserve – Mark Reddig spoke with Laura O’Neill about a bill in the House to release oil in the SPR.
- You can read the text of HR6578 here;
- To contact any member of the U.S. House or Senate, call (202) 224-3131;
- To get an e-mail address, street address or fax number for state or federal lawmakers, either:
- Call the Membership Department at OOIDA at 1-800-444-5791;
- Or click here, and enter your Zip code. That will bring you to a page with links to all the elected officials who serve you.
Air date: July 24, 2008.
Highway Trust Fund – Reed Black spoke about H.R. 6532, a bill concerning the Highway Trust Fund that has passed the U.S. House Wednesday.
- To read the text or check the status of the legislation, click here; or
- You can go to the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Web site here.
Air date: July 24, 2008.
Road Closings – Reed Black reported on road closings in Texas due to former Hurricane and now Tropical Depression Dolly.
- You can read more by Land Line Magazine here;
- Click here to check road conditions; or
- Call TxDOT’s automated phone system at 1-800-452-9292;
- Click here to view the latest posting from the National Weather Service.
Air date: July 24, 2008.
XM-Sirius – Reed Black mentioned the XM-Sirius merger. You can go the XM Web site here. Air date: July 24, 2008.
Highway Trust Fund - Mark Reddig spoke to Rod Nofziger about H.R. 6532, a bill concerning the Highway Trust Fund that has passed the U.S. House Wednesday.
- To read the text or check the status of the legislation, click here; or
- You can go to the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Web site here.
Air date: July 23, 2008.
TRUCC – In today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig spoke about the TRUCC Act. The fuel surcharge legislation is listed in the Senate as S.2910. The House version is HR 5977.
- You can read OOIDA’s two National Call to Action notices concerning TRUCC here and here.
- For tips on writing your members of Congress, click here.
- To call your U.S. senators or U.S. representative about TRUCC, dial (202) 224-3121.
- To get a fax number, e-mail address or street address to write your members of Congress, call the OOIDA Membership Department at 1-800-444-5791.
Air date: July 23, 2008.
Speed Limiters – In today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig spoke about speed limiters. You can read a Special Report by Land Line Magazine here. Air date: July 23, 2008.
Diesel update – Terry Scruton presented an update on the price of diesel fuel and crude oil.
- To read this week’s price report by Land Line Magazine, click here.
- To check the price today through ProMiles, click here.
- To see how to compute your own fuel surcharge through OOIDA’s online guide, click here.
Air date: July 23, 2008.
Diesel comments – If you have questions or a comment about diesel prices, or you’ve seen some interesting highs and lows at the pumps wherever you are, call our “Land Line Now” Diesel Price Line. Dial 1-800-324-6856, and then press 2 to record your message. This week, we’re also asking truckers who call the line to answer this question: “What’s on your mind that you want to talk about?” Air date: July 23, 2008.
Pharmaceutical theft - Reed Black reported on the theft of a truck hauling expensive pharmaceuticals in Ohio. To read more, click here. Air date: July 23, 2008.
Washington ferry cameras – Reed Black reported about police in Washington state using surveillance cameras on ferries. To read more by The Seattle Times Web site, click here. Air date: July 23, 2008.
Reserve parking spots – Reed Black reported about a new parking scheme in San Francisco. To read more by The San Francisco Chronicle, click here. Air date: July 23, 2008.
Bariatric surgery – Terry Scruton spoke with OOIDA member Kevin Raines about his experience with bariatric surgery.
- You can find more information on the procedure at WebMd.com
- You can check out the Professional Driver’s Medical Depot Web site here.
Air date: July 22, 2008.
State Update – New Hampshire and Rhode Island – Reed Black spoke with Land Line Magazine State Legislative Editor Keith Goble. In New Hampshire, a new law is intended to help protect funding for transportation work throughout the state. And a new law in Rhode Island restricts large trucks from two bridges in the state.
- To read about legislation in New Hampshire, click here.
- To read about legislation in Rhode Island, click here.
Air date: July 22, 2008.
Diesel comments – If you have questions or a comment about diesel prices, or you’ve seen some interesting highs and lows at the pumps wherever you are, call our “Land Line Now” Diesel Price Line. Dial 1-800-324-6856, and then press 2 to record your message. This week, we’re also asking truckers who call the line to answer this question: “What's the most desperate thing you've ever done to try and save on fuel?” Air date: July 22, 2008.
FROM THE LAND LINE NOW BLOG: Drilling is good, but we can do more - Mark Reddig discusses various ideas being discussed to solve the fuel price crisis.
Air date: July 22, 2008.
Speculation and Oil Prices – Mark Reddig spoke with Rod Nofziger of OOIDA’s Washington, DC, office about S. 3268 – the “Stop Excessive Speculation Act” that will be taken up by the Senate this week.
- To view the text of the bill, click here.
- To contact any member of the U.S. House of Senate, call (202) 224-3131.
- To get an e-mail address, street address or fax number for state or federal lawmakers, either:
- Call the Membership Department at OOIDA at 1-800-444-5791;
- Or click here, and enter your Zip code. That will bring you to a page with links to all the elected officials who serve you.
Air date: July 21, 2008.
Trucking Security Program – Mark Reddig spoke with Don L. Rondeau, senior security adviser for OOIDA, about the new Trucking Security Program now being developed by HMS Inc. If you have questions about the program, call the main number at OOIDA – 1-800-444-5791 – and ask for extension 1613. Air date: July 21, 2008.
Diesel comments – If you have questions or a comment about diesel prices, or you’ve seen some interesting highs and lows at the pumps wherever you are, call our “Land Line Now” Diesel Price Line. Dial 1-800-324-6856, and then press 2 to record your message. This week, we’re also asking truckers who call the line to answer this question: “What's the most desperate thing you've ever done to try and save on fuel?” Air date: July 21, 2008.
Speaking English – Mark Reddig answered questions regarding federal and state requirements that truckers be able to speak English.
- To view the federal regulation, click here.
- To find out about the bill in Ohio that would require CDL tests be given in English, click here.
Air date: July 21, 2008.
Roses & Razzberries – Terry Scruton and Jami Jones offered up some of our patented Roses & Razzberries. If you are an OOIDA member and want to offer up your own rose or razzberry for our consideration, you can do it through the Members Only section of our Web site. Just click here. Air date: July 21, 2008.
DISCUSS ONLINE: Trucking security – You can join an online discussion about the new Trucking Security Program – or other topics from the program – through our Web site. You must be an OOIDA member to take part, and you must register to take part in the forum.
Air date: July 21, 2008.
APU Grant Money Available in Wisconsin - The state of Wisconsin has grant money it wants to hand out to truckers for idle reduction equipment – but with the application deadline only weeks away, only about 70 people have applied so far. Up to $500,000 has been set aside for small business truckers—with the grants paying up to 50 percent of the cost of an APU or other idle-reduction technology. If you live in Wisconsin and are interested in applying for a grant, click here. Air date: July 18, 2008.
APU insurance – Terry Scruton spoke with Ed Briley of OOIDA’s Truck Insurance Customer Service Department about insuring extra equipment such as auxiliary power units, generators and other idle-reduction equipment.
- You can visit the new OOIDA Truck Insurance Web site here.
- If you have a question about truck insurance, you can call 1-800-715-9369.
- If you have a question about truck insurance you’d like answered on the air, you can call our comment line at 1-800-324-6856.
- You can e-mail questions about insurance you’d like answered on the air here.
Air date: July 18, 2008.
Fuel efficient tires – Stephen Petit of Roll Audio talked with Tim Miller of Goodyear about tire tread and fuel efficiency.
- You can view Stephen’s Web site here.
- To find out more about commercial vehicle tires from Goodyear, click here.
Air date: July 18, 2008.
Land Line Now Calendar – This weekend is the Walcott Truckers Jamboree; Mark Reddig mentioned that, and several other upcoming events.
- To find out more about Walcott, click here.
- To learn about other upcoming industry events, click here.
Air date: July 18, 2008.
FRIDAY RANTS: The good, the bad and the obvious – Jami Jones offers a few thoughts on brokers, truckers and how they interact.
Air date: July 18, 2008.
LISTEN ONLINE: Notice of Intent – Mark Reddig talked with OOIDA’s Rick Craig about a notice filed by the association, preserving its right to pursue legal action in Canada over a new Ontario speed limiter requirement.
- To listen to this sound clip, or other sound from July, click here.
- A government agency called the Regulatory Ministry is gathering public comments on a proposed speed limiter rule to enforce the new law.
- To read Land Line Magazine's coverage of the comment period, click here;
- To view the list of regulations proposed to accompany Bill 41, click here;
- If you'd like to submit your comments on speed limiters to the Regulatory Ministry, You can do so electronically here; or
- You can mail comments to Carrier Safety and Enforcement Branch, 3 rd Floor, 301 St. Paul Street , St. Catherines , Ontario , Canada L2R 7R4 ;
When you file comments, be sure to reference “speed limiters” and the proposal number, 08-MTO003.
Commenting on speed limiters – Even though Ontario has already passed a law mandating speed limiters on trucks, interested parties will still have one last chance to submit comments. A government agency called the Regulatory Ministry is gathering comments now; the 45-day comment period begins July 17 and runs through the end of August.
- To read Land Line Magazine's coverage of the comment period, click here ;
- To view the list of regulations proposed to accompany Bill 41, click here ;
- If you'd like to submit your comments on speed limiters to the Regulatory Ministry:
- You can do so electronically here ; or
- You can mail comments to Carrier Safety and Enforcement Branch, 3 rd Floor, 301 St. Paul Street , St. Catherines , Ontario , Canada L2R 7R4 ;
When you file comments, be sure to reference “speed limiters” and the proposal number, 08-MTO003. Air date: July 17, 2008.
State Legislative Update – Reed Black spoke with Land Line Magazine State Legislative Editor Keith Goble. Missouri has put a number of new regulations for trucks into law, including a left lane restriction. To read more about legislation in Missouri , click here . Air date: July 17, 2008.
Driving while suspended – Terry Scruton spoke with Jeff McConnell and James Mennella – who also write the “Road Law” column in Land Line Magazine – about what to do if you are cited for driving while your license is suspended. If you have questions or comments regarding transportation law, you can:
- Call Road Law 1-888-276-8000 ;
- Fax a question to them at (405) 242-2040 ; or
- Send them an e-mail.
- Or click here to view their Web site for more information.
Air date: July 17, 2008.
Dave Sweetman – Terry Scruton talked with OOIDA member and Land Line Magazine columnist Diesel Dave Sweetman about how high fuel prices have affected the high-priced car business. To read some of Dave's latest columns from the magazine, click on one of these links:
Air date: July 17, 2008.
OOIDA discounts – OOIDA offers members discounts and rebates on more than 30 different product lines, from computers, to APUs, to new and used trucks. For more information, click here . Air date: July 17, 2008.
ON THE LAND LINE NOW BLOG: A damn fine reason – Mark Reddig discusses complaints that truckers have with the condition of toll roads.
- To read Mark's blog on the topic, click here .
- To read other entries on the Land Line Now blog, click here .
Grants for California truckers - The San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District will award $40.5 million in grants to California truckers to replace or retrofit old, polluting commercial trucks. The deadline for applications is Sept. 5, 2008. For more information, click here. Air date: July 16, 2008.
Diesel update – Terry Scruton presented an update on the price of diesel fuel and crude oil.
- To read this week’s price report by Land Line Magazine, click here.
- To check the price today through ProMiles, click here.
- To see how to compute your own fuel surcharge through OOIDA’s online guide, click here.
Air date: July 16, 2008.
Diesel comments – If you have questions or a comment about diesel prices, or you’ve seen some interesting highs and lows at the pumps wherever you are, call our “Land Line Now” Diesel Price Line. Dial 1-800-324-6856, and then press 2 to record your message. This week, we’re also asking truckers who call the line to answer this question: “What's the most desperate thing you've ever done to try and save on fuel?” Air date: July 16, 2008.
Contacting lawmakers – Reed Black spoke with OOIDA Life Member Robbie Tripp of Jackson, GA, about talking with lamakers.
- To contact any member of the U.S. House of Senate, call (202) 224-3131.
- To get an e-mail address, street address or fax number for state or federal lawmakers, either:
- Call the Membership Department at OOIDA at 1-800-444-5791;
- Or click here, and enter your Zip code. That will bring you to a page with links to all the elected officials who serve you.
Air date: July 16, 2008.
CARB stickers – Reed Black reported that beginning next year in California, they’re adding a new green-and-white sticker to all cars that rates how environmentally friendly – or unfriendly – the vehicle is.
- To read a CARB release on the stickers, click here.
- To view a new Web site dedicated to the CARB clean car program, click here.
- To view the main CARB Web site, click here.
Air date: July 16, 2008.
Inflatable cars – Reed Black reported on a company that intends to build an inflatable electric car. To view the XP Vehicles Web site, click here. Air date: July 16, 2008.
Longer, heavier trucks – Terry Scruton brought us highlights of a House Transportation Committee hearing on longer combination vehicles.
- To view the committee Web site, which includes video of the hearing, click here.
- To read OOIDA member Bill Farrell's testimony from the hearing, click here.
- To read Land Line Magazine’s coverage of the hearing, click here.
Air date: July 15, 2008.
State update – Reed Black spoke with Land Line Magazine’s Keith Goble about state legislation. In Pennsylvania, Gov. Ed Rendell signed a bill into law this week that authorizes the state to borrow $350 million to quicken repairs on more than 400 bridges throughout the state. Meanwhile, in Louisiana, a new law is intended to prevent law enforcement officers from going on ticket-writing sprees.
- To read about legislation in Pennsylvania, click here.
- To read about legislation in Louisiana, click here.
Air date: July 15, 2008.
Reducing tail drag – In today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig mentioned a study by Georgia Tech on reducing trailer air drag, and also Air Tabs.
- To read a federal report on the concept, click here.
- To read a Science Daily report on the Georgia Tech research, click here.
- To view Air Tabs Web site, click here.
Air date: July 15, 2008.
Operation Stop – In today’s newscast, Reed Black reported on Operation Stop in Tennessee.
- To view a press release about Operation Stop, click here.
- To view the Tennessee Department of Homeland Security’s Web site, click here.
Air date: July 15, 2008.
TRUCC – Mark Reddig spoke with Bill Rode, a member of the OOIDA Board of Directors, about his discussion of the TRUCC Act with U.S. Rep. Bill Sali, R-ID. The fuel surcharge legislation is listed in the Senate as S.2910. The House version is HR 5977.
- You can read OOIDA’s two National Call to Action notices concerning TRUCC here and here.
- For tips on writing your members of Congress, click here.
- To call your U.S. senators or U.S. representative about TRUCC, dial (202) 224-3121.
- To get a fax number, e-mail address or street address to write your members of Congress, call the OOIDA Membership Department at 1-800-444-5791.
- You can view Rep. Sali’s Web site here.
- You can read these special reports by Land Line Magazine
Air date: July 14, 2008.
Truck Insurance – Terry Scruton talked with Ed Briley of OOIDA’s Truck Insurance Customer Service Department about passenger insurance for truckers.
- You can visit the new OOIDA Truck Insurance Web site here.
- If you have a question about truck insurance, you can call 1-800-715-9369.
- If you have a question about truck insurance you’d like answered on the air, you can call our comment line at 1-800-324-6856.
- You can e-mail questions about insurance you’d like answered on the air here.
Air date: July 14, 2008.
Maryland Information Update - OOIDA has an information update to members and other truckers in Montgomery County, MD, regarding a county bill that would regulate where truckers can park their rigs.
- You can express your views to the sponsor of the measure, Michael Knapp:
- By mail at Michael Knapp, 100 Maryland Ave., 6th Floor, Rockville, MD 20850;
- By phone at (240) 777-7955; or
- By e-mail here.
- You can also attend a public meeting on the bill, which is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 22, at the Stella B. Werner Council Office Building, 100 Maryland Ave., Rockville, MD.
- To read OOIDA’s Information Update online, click here.
Air date: July 14, 2008.
ON THE LAND LINE NOW BLOG: Are we seeing a pattern here? – Mark Reddig discusses the push for longer, heavier trucks by the ATA.
- To read Mark’s blog on the topic, click here.
- To read other entrieson the Land Line Now Blog, click here.
Howard Hart has the Spirit of the American Trucker at Housby Truck Lube. That’s located at Exit 136 of Interstates 35 and 80 in Des Moines, IA. Air date: July 14, 2008.
Oregon Voluntary Truck Inspections - Oregon will hold voluntary truck safety inspections July 18 and 19 for any trucker who operates within the state (and makes an appointment). An Oregon DOT press release provides inspection locations and contact information. To read the release, click here. Air date: July 11, 2008.
Longer, heavier trucks – In today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig spoke about the issue of longer and heavier trucks.
- You can read this week’s Special Report on the topic by Land Line Magazine here.
- You can read an earlier Special Report by Land Line Magazine here.
Air date: July 11, 2008.
Cost of Operation – During today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig spoke about knowing your cost of operation. Below are several links to assist you:
- An online guidebook that leads you through figuring your cost of operation can be found here.
- A spreadsheet you can use online can be found here. (This requires no additional software on your computer.)
- A worksheet you can download on your computer and modify can be found here. (Please note, this is an Excel program and you must have Excel on your computer.)
- For more information from the May issue of Land Line Magazine, click here.
Air date: July 11, 2008.
The Future of Trucking – Mark Reddig gave us highlights of a meeting at OOIDA headquarters with staff members of the EPA and other agencies, during which they discussed the future of the industry. To visit the Web sites of the agencies involved:
- Click here for the U.S. EPA Web site.
- Click here for the Missouri Department of Natural Resources Web site.
- Click here for the Kansas Department of Health and Environment Web site.
- Click here for the Missouri Department of Transportation Web site.
- Click here for the Kansas Small Business Environmental Assistance Program Web site.
- Click here for the Johnson County, KS, Environmental Department Web site.
- Click here for the EPA’s Smartway program Web site.
- Click here for the Mid-America Regional Council Web site.
- Click here for the Blue Skyways Collaborative Web site.
Air date: July 11, 2008.
Land Line Now Calendar – This weekend is the Walcott Truckers Jamboree; Mark Reddig mentioned that, and several other upcoming events.
- To find out more about Walcott, click here.
- To learn about other upcoming industry events, click here.
Air date: July 11, 2008.
FRIDAY RANTS: So DOT, you wanna play word games? – The word games politicians play recently caught the attention of Jami Jones after it was used to push cross-border trucking.
Air date: July 11, 2008.
New Mexican Truck Amendment – Mark Reddig spoke with OOIDA’s Rod Nofziger about a new amendment introduced by Sen. Byron Dorgan, D-ND, that would forbid any money to be spent on a Mexican cross-border trucking program. To read Land Line Magazine’s coverage of the amendment and what it says, click here. Air date: July 10, 2008.
State Update – Pennsylvania and Michigan – Reed Black spoke with Land Line Magazine State Legislative Editor Keith Goble. In Pennsylvania there is new talk of highway privatization to pay for road improvements. Meanwhile Michigan is considering price-gouging legislation.
- To read about more legislation in Pennsylvania, click here.
- To read about more legislation in Michigan, click here.
Air date: July 10, 2008.
Dream catchers – Terry Scruton spoke with Jeff McConnell and James Mennella – who also write the “Road Law” column in Land Line Magazine – about a case involving dream catchers. If you have questions or comments regarding transportation law, you can:
- Call Road Law 1-888-276-8000;
- Fax a question to them at (405) 242-2040; or
- Send them an e-mail.
- Or click here to view their Web site for more information.
Air date: July 10, 2008.
Quarterly tax estimates – Terry Scruton spoke with John Turner, CPA and owner of The Trucker’s Accountant, about quarterly tax estimates.
- You can find more information on his Web site here;
- Or you can call directly at (281) 464-9443.
Air date: July 10, 2008.
Speed Limiters – In today’s listener comment line, Mark Reddig discussed carriers turning down speed limiters in order to save fuel, and what some of the concerns with that issue are. To read some of Land Line Magazine’s previous coverage of the issue, click on one of the links below:
- All hands on deck: Traffic speed study will reveal a lot;
- Company drivers: Speed limiters do not improve highway safety;
Air date: July 10, 2008.
ON THE LAND LINE NOW BLOG: Nothing is perfect, but this is the best we have – Mark Reddig addresses some of the concerns truckers have with the TRUCC Act.
- To read Mark’s blog on the topic, click here.
- To read other entries on the Land Line Now Blog, click here.
CARB – In today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig went to OOIDA regulatory Affairs Specialist Joe Rajkovacz for an update on CARB.
- To read more on California Air Resource Board by Land Line Magazine, click here.
- You can visit CARB Web site here.
Air date: July 9, 2008.
Speculation – In today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig spoke about speculators and the role they play with the price of fuel. To read a Special Report by Land Line Magazine, click here. Air date: July 9, 2008.
Diesel update – Terry Scruton presented an update on the price of diesel fuel and crude oil.
- To read this week’s price report by Land Line Magazine, click here.
- To check the price today through ProMiles, click here.
- To see how to compute your own fuel surcharge through OOIDA’s online guide, click here.
Air date: July 9, 2008.
Diesel comments – If you have questions or a comment about diesel prices, or you’ve seen some interesting highs and lows at the pumps wherever you are, call our “Land Line Now” Diesel Price Line. Dial 1-800-324-6856, and then press 2 to record your message. This week, we’re also asking truckers who call the line to answer this question: “Are you hearing any businesses say they can't get enough trucks in a certain area because of high fuel prices? Or are there any areas you won't go to because the fuel there is too high?” Air date: July 9, 2008.
LISTEN ONLINE: Fixing the Highway Trust Fund - Mark Reddig talked with Rod Nofziger of OOIDA’s Washington, DC, office about efforts in Congress to address a $3.7 billion shortfall in the fund this year alone. To listen to this sound from our show, or others, click here.
Canadian speed limiters – Mark Reddig spoke with Rick Craig about OOIDA’s response to speed limiter legislation in Ontario.
Air date: July 8, 2008.
Land Line Magazine – Terry Scruton previewed the upcoming July issue of Land Line Magazine on today’s program.
- If you’re a trucker, and you’d like to receive the magazine, click here.
- If you would like to subscribe to Land Line’s Daily eNews, click here.
- You can view Land Line Magazine’s Web site here.
Air date: July 8, 2008.
State Update – Ohio and Louisiana – Reed Black spoke with Land Line Magazine State Legislative Editor Keith Goble. In Ohio, a new law allows three full steel coils to be hauled at one time. And in Louisiana, there are three new laws affecting truckers that go into effect Aug. 17.
- To read more about legislation in Louisiana, click here.
- To read more about legislation in Ohio, click here.
Air date: July 8, 2008.
Longer, heavier trucks – In today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig spoke about the issue of longer and heavier trucks. You can read a Special Report by Land Line Magazine here. Air date: July 8, 2008.
Trans Texas Corridor – In today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig spoke about the Trans Texas Corridor. You can read more by Land Line Magazine here. Air date: July 8, 2008.
ON THE LAND LINE NOW BLOG: There’s a real crisis, and then there’s this … – Mark Reddig discusses whether supply and demand are really behind the high oil prices we’re seeing.
Transport Canada – Mark Reddig spoke to Laura O’Neill about a study commissioned by Transport Canada regarding speed limiters. You can read the study by visiting Transport Canada Web site here. Air date: July 7, 2008.
Biodiesel blends – In today’s follow up, Reed Black spoke about new specifications issued by the ASTM for biodiesel blends.
Air date: July 7, 2008.
California safety summit – The California Highway Patrol is encouraging truckers to participate in a commercial safety summit Aug. 19-21, at the Hyatt Regency Newport Beach Hotel in Newport Beach, CA. To read more by Land Line Magazine, click here. Air date: July 7, 2008.
Roses & Razzberries – Terry Scruton and Jami Jones offered up some of our patented Roses & Razzberries. If you are an OOIDA member and want to offer up your own rose or razzberry for our consideration, you can do it through the Members Only section of our Web site. Just click here. Air date: July 7, 2008.
LISTEN ONLINE: 2290s - Terry Scruton talked with Scott O’Dell of OOIDA’s Business Services Department about Form 2290. The deadline to file was July 1, but truckers are given a grace period lasting till Aug. 31. To listen to part of Terry’s discussion with Scott, and other recent sound clips, click here.
UCR – Mark Reddig spoke with Cathy Koncillia of OOIDA’s Business Services Department about motor carriers who have failed to register with the Unified Carrier Registration Program; the deadline was July 1, 2008.
- You can read more by Land Line Magazine here.
- OOIDA members who haven’t registered yet can do so by calling OOIDA’s Business Services Department at 1-800-444-5791;
- You can also register by visiting the UCR Web site here.
Air date: July 3, 2008.
Fruit and Vegetable Truck Rate Report – Mark Reddig spoke with OOIDA Regulatory Affairs Specialist Joe Rajkovacz about the USDA Fruit and Vegetable Truck Rate Report, as well as other resources the association offers online.
- You can read the report here.
- To check the price of fuel today through ProMiles, click here.
- To calculate your route with the help of Truck Miles, click here.
- To view an online guidebook to figure your cost of operation, click here.
- A cost-of-operation spreadsheet you can use online can be found here. (This requires no additional software on your computer.)
- A cost-of-operation worksheet you can download on your computer and modify can be found here. (Please note, this is an Excel program and you must have Excel on your computer to download it.)
Air date: July 3, 2008.
State Update – West Virginia – Reed Black talked with Land Line Magazine State Legislative Editor Keith Goble. Truckers and other drivers who fuel up in West Virginia will be spared from a scheduled fuel tax increase. Lawmakers in other states have authorized or are seeking similar fuel-cost-savings rules. To read about more legislation in West Virginia, click here. Air date: July 3, 2008.
Illegal campaign contributions – Mark Reddig spoke with Mike Joyce about Australian firm Transurban’s announcement that it had made illegal campaign contributions to state officials in Virginia.
Air date: July 3, 2008.
Run for the Wall – Reed Black spoke to some of the participants in the Memorial Day Run for the Wall that started in California headed for the Memorial Wall in Washington, DC.
- You can visit the Run for the Wall Web site here.
- You can read a blog about the event by Land Line Magazine Managing Editor Sandi Soendker here.
Air date: July 4, 2008.
State Update – California, Wyoming and New Jersey – Reed Black talked with Land Line Magazine State Legislative Editor Keith Goble. In California, drivers who don’t keep their hands off their phones soon will have to pay up if caught. In Wyoming, a new law will boost the fees charged per mile traveled for oversized and overweight trucks. Meanwhile in New Jersey, a legislative package is intended to make it easier for drivers with suspended licenses to keep their driving privileges.
- To read about more legislation in California, click here.
- To read about more legislation in Wyoming, click here.
- To read about more legislation in New Jersey, click here.
Air date: July 4, 2008.
FRIDAY RANTS: It only takes one – Land Line Now Traffic Coordinator Sherry Murry talks about the effect truckers can have on other people’s lives. To read Sherry’s rant, or other entries in our Friday Rants Series, click here. Air date: July 3, 2008
ON THE LAND LINE NOW BLOG: BMI trouble – Mark Reddig has spoken out several times against a federal proposal to require all truckers over a certain body mass index to undergo yearly testing for sleep apnea.
- To read Mark’s blogs on the topic, click on one of these links:
- BMI – it stands for “Bums Messing up the Industry”
- Maybe the FMCSA should sleep on it …
- BMI – a bloody mess, indeed
- To read other entries on the Land Line Now Blog, click here.
UCR Registration – Some OOIDA members who operate on their own authority are among the motor carriers, brokers and freight forwarders who must register under the Unified Carrier Registration Program. Failure to register can result in steep fines — and enforcement began on July 1. If you have not registered yet, you need to take immediate action. You can:
- Call OOIDA’s Business Services Department at 1-800-444-5791 and ask for help in getting registered; or
- Contact your state vehicle registration office;
- Go online to register directly. Just click here.
Air date: July 2, 2008.
Diabetic help – Terry Scruton spoke with dietitian Debbie Latham about diabetes and their blood sugar. You can visit Debbie’s Web site here. Air date: July 2, 2008.
PDMD – Terry Scruton talked with Dr. John McElligott of the Professional Drivers Medical Depots clinics about HIPAA. To learn more about the clinics, click here. Air date: July 2, 2008.
Diesel update – Terry Scruton presented an update on the price of diesel fuel and crude oil.
- To read this week’s price report by Land Line Magazine, click here.
- To check the price today through ProMiles, click here.
Air date: July 2, 2008.
Diesel comments – If you have questions or a comment about diesel prices, or you’ve seen some interesting highs and lows at the pumps wherever you are, call our “Land Line Now” Diesel Price Line. Dial 1-800-324-6856, and then press 2 to record your message. This week, we’re also asking truckers who call the line to answer these two questions:
- Do you have any tips on finding a truck’s sweet spot?
- What are you hearing from the people you deal with (brokers, shippers, trucking companies, etc.) about the effects of rising fuel?
Air date: July 2, 2008.
Speed differentials – In today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig mentioned a study by University of Arkansas researchers that reveals how different speed limits for cars and large trucks on highways compromise safety. You can read more about Professor Steven Johnson’s research here. Air date: July 2, 2008.
LISTEN ONLINE: TOMCATS – Reed Black reported on the TOMCATS, a law-enforcement unit in Miami that specializes in fighting cargo theft. To listen to Reed’s report, or other sound clips from June, click here.
State of economy – Reed Black spoke with Professor Gerald Miller of Rockhurst University in Kansas City, MO, about the fuel crisis. To read more by Land Line Magazine, click here. Air date: July 1, 2008.
Determination – In today’s follow up, Reed Black spoke with OOIDA member Barry Owens of Determination Transportation about his overcoming his handicap. To visit Barry’s Web site, click here. Air date: July 1, 2008.
State Update – California, Wyoming and New Jersey - Reed Black talked with Land Line Magazine State Legislative Editor Keith Goble. In California, drivers who don’t keep their hands off their phones soon will have to pay up if caught. In Wyoming, a new law will boost the fees charged per mile traveled for oversized and overweight trucks. Meanwhile in New Jersey, a legislative package is intended to make it easier for drivers with suspended licenses to keep their driving privileges.
- To read about more legislation in California, click here.
- To read about more legislation in Wyoming, click here.
- To read about more legislation in
Air date: July 1, 2008.
Canadian Speed Limiters – In today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig spoke about the passage of the
ON THE LAND LINE NOW BLOG: What has the government done? – OOIDA’s Rod Nofziger talks about what the government has … or hasn’t done about the price of oil and fuel.
TRUCC – Mark Reddig spoke to Laura O’Neill about the TRUCC Act. The fuel surcharge legislation is listed in the Senate as S.2910. The House version is HR 5977.
- You can read OOIDA’s two National Call to Action notices concerning TRUCC here and here.
- You can read these special reports by Land Line Magazine
- Truckers encouraged to rally around TRUCC Act
- Fuel surcharge legislation moving in House, Senate
- Truckers need help ‘soon’ OOIDA tells Congress
- For tips on writing your members of Congress, click here.
- To call your
- To get a fax number, e-mail address or street address to write your members of Congress, call the OOIDA Membership Department at 1-800-444-5791.
Air date: July 1, 2008.
Subscribe to Posts [Atom]