FMCSA Issues Final Rule for Hazmat Safety Permit Program
Background Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) part of US Department of Transportation Final rule was published in June 30, 2004 Federal Register, docket number FMCSA-97-2180
Mitsu Dealers Push Pre-Owneds as New Car Sales Slide 45%
Mitsubishi dealers are pushing used-car sales following a June sales slide of 45.7 percent from year-ago new car levels. All Mitsubishi 2004 models slipped in sales last month, except the Montero Sport. The Japanese automaker expects sales to fall through March 2005 followed by a recovery in the next fiscal year. Meanwhile, a job cut of 10 percent is threatened at the automaker's Normal, IL plant.
Ex-Mitsubishi Executives Indicted in Recall Scandal; Four Face Prison Terms, Fines
Four former executives of Mitsubishi Motors were formally charged last week over an accident where a truck driver died after his brakes failed and the vehicle crashed. Those charged with professional negligence resulting in death include the Mitsubishi Motors president and former chairman of Mitsubishi Fuso Truck & Bus. They could receive up to five-years in prison or fines of $4,594.
TSA Investigating 28 Truckers for Possible Terrorism Links
The Transportation Security Administration is looking into 28 truck drivers as "persons of interest" who may have ties to terrorist groups. The investigations result from the first stage of background checks of 2.7 million drivers who have commercial drivers licenses and hazmat endorsements. The FBI has identified a man who is possibly part of an al-Qaida "sleeper cell" who has hazmat and school bus credentials.
Study Predicts Near Future Truck Driver Shortage in Canada ‘Staggering’
The Canadian Trucking Human Resources Council commissioned a study ("Profile of Driver Shortage, Driver Turnover and Future Demand Estimates") to evaluate future industry needs for truck drivers. The Ontario Trucking Association calls the 224,000 truck drivers needed in Canada over the next five-years "staggering." Moreover, many of these drivers will need a Class "A" commercial driver’s license for operating tractor-trailer units.
