Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/56062
logbook Truce in truck weight debate The American Trucking Associations and the Association of American Railroads are backing a truck weight limit freeze in the House transportation appropriations bill in hopes a unified front will hasten passage of the legislation. The current funding bill ends March 31, the latest funding extension Congress approved after the last omnibus appropriations bill expired in 2009. The House rules committee was expected to review the Republicans' H.R. 7, or the American Energy and Infrastructure Jobs Act, in mid- February. The House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure Feb. 3 had passed the five-year, $260-billion PENNSYLVANIA. A recent law requires CDL holders running interstate to provide a doctor's certificate to state licensing offices. Possible suspension could result if the holder fails to certify by early 2014. The law brings the state in line with fed- eral rules. SOUTH DAKOTA. A bill would charge carriers a fee to pay for the electronic system that runs the state's International Fuel Tax Agreement program. The bill would require truckers to pay $10 to set up an account and for renewal. TENNESSEE. One lane of westbound I-40 near the North Carolina border has been reopened following the Jan. 31 rockslide that closed both west- bound lanes. Transportation officials intend to keep a lane open during clean-up operations. A second phase to stabilize the mountainside is set to begin in late March. A 1,500-ton boulder was removed that could have fallen on the roadway. WASHINGTON. A state House bill would reclassify port truckers, including owner-operators, as employees. The proposal would cover drayage truckers and contractors who drive on property of the ports of Seattle and Tacoma. Supporters say the state is missing out on tax revenue paid by employees, while opponents say the measure would undermine how trucking is performed. MARCH 2012 OVERDRIVE 77 funding bill, which contained an allowance for states to opt for a 97,000-pound limit for single-trailer trucks with six axles. Later, the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure voted to amend the bill to freeze weight and lengths during a three-year study on potential impacts of heavier trucks. Congress hasn't passed stand-alone bills to freeze or increase truck weights or lengths in recent years. — Jill Dunn TRUCKING OPPORTUNITIES Circle 193 on Reader Service Card or visit overdrive.hotims.com HIGHW A Y HAPPENING S