transportnews - Idaho Trucking Association

TRANSPORT NEWS
Phone: 208.342.3521 / Fax: 208.343.8397
E-mail: [email protected]
3405 East Overland Road, Suite 175
Meridian, ID 83642
ITA News Briefs
June 19, 2014
Welcome
ITA’s
Issue
Highlights
FED-EX FREIGHT DRIVER DARYL BARNETT
WINS GRAND CHAMPION
Newest Members
Digity
From the desk of the
President….…….... 2
Senate Action on
HOS… ...………......3
Convention
Comedian…....….4
2014 GRAND CHAMPION DARYL & LOLA BARNETT LIVE IN MOUNTAIN HOME, IDAHO
40 drivers vied for the chance to
compete at the National
Championships
Trucking
Webinar……….....5
MERIDIAN, ID - Forty drivers from
southern Idaho competed Saturday at the
Idaho Truck Driving Championships for
a chance to compete at the 2014 National
Truck Driving Championships and the
2014 National Step Van Driving Championships in Pittsburgh, Penn., August 1216.
"The greatest thing about this event
is that every competitor is already a winner," said Idaho Trucking Association
President and CEO Julie Pipal. "You
can't even enter unless you are accidentfree for the previous year leading up to
Get the best from
your tires…….…..10
the competition. These drivers are truly
the best of the best."
In a tight 3-part competition that
included a written test, a safety pre-trip
inspection and a tough course, returning champion William "Bill" Hill, Jr.,
Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc., will
represent Idaho in Pittsburgh in the 5Axle class. Hill will be joined by Jeffrey
Halford, Con-way Freight, in the 3-Axle
class; James Neavear, FedEx Freight, in
the 4-Axle class; Tim Brown, Arlo G.
Lott Trucking, Inc., in the Flatbed class;
Dan Istre, USF Reddaway, in the Sleeper Berth class; Daryl Barnett, FedEx
Freight, in the Straight Truck class;
Curtis Smith, FedEx Freight, in the
(Continued on page 5)
TRUCK TIPS
DID YOU KNOW
If you need to flip a uturn in a your truck,
forget it on U.S. roads!
A big rig needs 55 feet
to successfully flip a
u-turn.
The
U.S.
generally allots 12 feet
per highway lane. You
can’t flip u-turn unless
you’re on at least a four
-lane roadway without
a center divider. The
divider would definitely
put a kink in things.
PASTA RECIPE - This is a great meal to start in the morning and let
cook while you’re driving for the day. When you stop for the night,
you have a hot meal that tastes like home. In a slow cooker combine:
 1 onion, chopped




1 16-ounce package frozen, fully cooked meatballs
1 26-ounce jar spaghetti sauce
1 15-ounce can diced tomatoes, un-drained
1 and 1/3 cups water
Place chopped onions in slow cooker. Top with meatballs and diced tomatoes. Add
spaghetti sauce and stir gently. Add water to spaghetti sauce jar and add to slow
cooker.
Cover and cook sauce on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3.5 hours until onions are tender and meatballs are hot.
Stir again, then add 2 handfuls of whole wheat spaghetti pasta, broken into pieces. Stir,
and make sure the spaghetti noodles are covered by the liquid. Cover and cook on
high for 20-25 minutes. Serve immediately.
Healthy eating for truck drivers isn’t difficult if you have the drive
(and a few choice appliances) to eat healthy on the road!
Adapted from an article at www.thehealthytrucker.net
T R A N S P O R T
ITA NEWS BRIEFS
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PAGE 2
From the Desk of the President/CEO
FIGHTING THE
GOOD FIGHT
ON CAPITOL
HILL
I hope you’ll take the
time to read the articles on page 3. Most of
the Idaho Trucking Association’s advocacy is done at the state level. In fact,
we are in the process of using what we
heard from you at the Industry Update
meetings held around the state to determine our 2015 legislative agenda,
which will be presented at the annual
convention in August. However, right
now the majority of our activities are
focused on Capitol Hill.
Hours of Service and 129,000
The tragic truck accident that occurred in New Jersey two weeks ago
recently became a rallying point for
those who don’t understand the trucking industry but believe that there will
never be enough regulation. To make
matters worse, media reports have
linked an unrelated bipartisan provision in the FY2015 Transportation,
Housing and Urban Development, and
Related Agencies (THUD) that would
require the Federal Motor Carrier Administration (FMCSA) to justify the 1-5
a.m. and the 34-hour restart provisions
in the Hours of Service regulations. It is
also causing problems for a provision
that Congressman Mike Simpson has
been promoting that would allow
trucks weighing up to 129,000 on the
Interstates in Idaho.
The reality is that neither provision has anything to do with the accident in New Jersey. That is the clear
message the American Trucking Associations, our congressional delegation
and other industry advocates are
sending: any commercially licensed
driver who gets behind the wheel
while knowingly fatigued is breaking
the law. They are also articulating
that if the driver did, in fact, fail to
use his mandatory 10 hours per day of
off-duty time to get adequate rest,
then his reckless behavior leading to
the crash would be as illegal under the
Senate proposal as it is under current
regulations.
The unfortunate part of this is
our industry is already facing an uphill battle in getting the facts in front
of decision makers. The media, special interest groups and misinformation are constantly bombarding
elected officials at all levels of government. That is why the role of your
association and our members is so
important: we provide the facts and
industry-relevant information to
those whose action affect your day-today operations and bottom line.
Food Safety Modernization Act
We are currently in the process of
preparing to comment on the transportation portion of the rule that is
currently out for comment. This rule
is being promulgated to address what
the Food and Drug Administration is
calling a gap in protecting the public
from adulterated food. While we disagree that the carriers are such a gap
and there is little evidence that this is
true, most of those involved in the
food supply chain already have the
right protocols and best management
practices in place. Our primary goals
in commenting are to educate and
prevent duplication. We are also
working to minimize or eliminate any
provisions that would increase costs
to the carriers for implementation. ITA
If you are interested in becoming
more involved, please email
[email protected].
HOS UPDATE 6-19:
After much political wrangling, the
senate failed to vote on the Booker
amendment. It is disappointing
because a vote – which we believed
would have resulted in the amendment
failing – would put this issue to
bed. However, the Collins’ Hours of
Service Restart Study language is
already in the T-HUD bill, where it will
remain for now. If there ends up being
no agreement on amendments and no
further debate on T-HUD and related
spending bills, we could end up with
another Continuing Resolution to fund
the government, possibly followed by a
very large omnibus spending package
after the November election. If that
happens, the Collins’ Hours of Service
Restart Study language stands a very
good chance of being part of that large
spending package.
WELCOME RUSTY IRISH
Rusty Irish, Cliff Irish Trucking, has
accepted the Northern Idaho Chairman
position on the Safety Management
Committee!
TDC Chairman Cole Prestwich and Julie Pipal at the Truck
Driving Championships closing ceremonies
REGISTER FOR THE 80TH
ANNUAL CONVENTION
ON THE ITA WEBSITE
Click on the link below:
http://www.idtrucking.org/convention.php
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ATA HAILS SENATE ACTION
ON HOURS-OF-SERVICE RESTART RULE
ITA asked Senators Mike Crapo
and Jim Risch, as the Senate
appropriations process and/or
reauthorization of MAP-21 are
considered this summer, to
follow the issue closely and
engage on the Idaho trucking
industry’s behalf to do whatever
possible to force the Federal
Motor Carrier Safety
Administration (FMCSA) to
provide relief from the existing
HOS restart provisions.
ARLINGTON, VA – American
Trucking Associations leaders applauded the Senate Appropriations
Committee for adopting a common
sense solution proposed by Sen. Susan
Collins (R-Maine) to address the unjustified changes to the restart provisions of the hours-of-service restart
rules.
“Since these rules were proposed
in 2010, ATA has maintained that they
were unsupported by science and since
they were implemented in 2013 the
industry and economy have experienced substantial negative effects as a
result,” said ATA President and CEO
Bill Graves. “Today, thanks to Senator
Collins’ leadership, we are a step closer
to reversing these damaging, unjustified regulations.”
The Collins Amendment, which
was adopted today, would suspend, for
a year, the new restart rules that push
more trucks onto the road during daytime hours, a consequence the Federal
Motor Carrier Safety Administration
failed to fully analyze from a safety
standpoint.
“America expects its freight to be
moved, and these new rules prevent
some drivers from taking a restart over
the weekend,” said ATA Chairman Phil
Byrd, president of Bulldog Hiway Express, Charleston, S.C, “and as a result,
they need to take their restart midweek leading to shipping delays and
costs.
“And if you’re fortunate enough to
be able to take your restart over a
weekend, it exacerbates congestion
because this regulation dumps concentrated amounts of trucks on the highway system at 5:01 a.m. Monday
morning when America is heading off
to work and school,” Byrd said.
“This is not the end of this debate,” said Dave Osiecki, ATA executive vice president and head of national advocacy, “but thanks to the hard
work of ATA’s members, the professional staff, ATA’s federation partners
and the courage and leadership of Sen.
Collins and others on Capitol Hill, we
are one step closer to reversing these
damaging regulations.” ITA
Want to receive updates
on advocacy issues?
e-mail [email protected]
to be added to the
advocacy updates e-mail list
TRANSPORTATION APPROPRIATIONS BILL PASSES HOUSE
WITH SIMPSON’S TRUCK WEIGHT LANGUAGE INTACT
In speaking with Congressman
Simpson’s Legislative Director
Nathan Greene on June 10th, just
as the vote was about to be taken,
he was very complementary of the
efforts of Idaho carriers to
support the Congressman. He
also noted that the American
Trucking Association - at the
request of ITA– added their
support to the coalition letter that
was circulated to the members.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson today supported final passage of the Fiscal Year
2015 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations bill,
which passed the House 229 to
192. The bill included Simpson’s language increasing truck weights on Idaho Interstates Highways to 129,000
pounds. The increase, above the current allowance of 105,500 pounds, puts
Idaho in line with neighboring states
and with Idaho’s state highway system,
which already allows 129,000 pound trucks.
The language comes after completion of a comprehensive ten year pilot study
in Idaho which found the weight increase would have no significant impact on
roadway safety, nor would it impact the structural soundness of Idaho’s bridges
or pavement. The increase will actually ease the impact on infrastructure because
heavier trucks use more axles and more evenly distribute weight than conventional trucks. It would also mean fewer trips would be required to move the same
amount of freight, leading to fewer trucks on the road.
“Today was a big step forward for Idaho business and agriculture,” said
Simpson. “This language has long been sought by the Governor, the Idaho State
Legislature, the Idaho Transportation Department, and business and agriculture
throughout Idaho because it will remove the competitive disadvantage Idaho
businesses face and generate significant economic activity.”
Idaho’s current weight allowance is significantly less than that of neighboring states Montana, Wyoming, Utah and Nevada, causing difficulty for producers
who ship goods on the Interstate across and into Idaho. Additionally, heavier
trucks are currently allowed to travel all throughout Idaho, but not where they
should be travelling – on Idaho’s Interstates. Instead, they are navigating state
highways, intersections, pedestrian areas, railroad tracks, and school zones.
Meanwhile, there are seven shipments “posted” and ready for pickup for every
truck available in Idaho.
“This bill puts heavy trucks where they belong, on the Interstate,” added
Simpson. “For centuries, our transportation system has been the backbone of our
economy, and it remains so today. Our ability to move goods and people safely
and efficiently across the country has made our economy the greatest in world
history. But today that system is aging, reaching the end of its life in many cases
or being stretched beyond what was originally intended. We need to implement
common sense reforms to extend our system’s life by making it work even better. This language does that.”
The Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations bill will
next proceed to conference with the Senate version of the same bill. ITA
ITA NEWS BRIEFS
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FEATURED COMEDIAN FOR AUGUST’S CONVENTION
MILT ABEL
A stand-up comedian
with
over
twenty
years of professional
experience, Milt has
performed everywhere
from
television
to
cruise ships, from comedy clubs and
college campuses to corporate
events ranging in audience size of
twenty to two thousand.
He’s made numerous television appearances; several performances on
An Evening At The Improv, and
comedy specials for PBS and Showtime, and regularly performs for
cruise lines like Royal Caribbean,
Holland America, and Princess.
Milt’s style of stand-up comedy is
clean, clever, and funny. His humor
has always been devoid of stereotypes, cheap shots, or laughter at
anyone's expense; in other words ,
never divisive or derisive.
With material focusing on everyday
experiences about his wife and kids,
travels, and how we relate to the
world around us; audiences always
come away feeling good about how
they chose to laugh.
Milt is a writer as well; he’s written
for Dennis Miller’s television show,
and published a collection of humorous short stories, Stories from the
Delux. With his writing ability and
performance skills, Milt can make
every show unique, enjoying the
challenge of personalizing each show
with jokes for that performance's
audience.
An expressive performer; The Denver Rocky Mountain News said,
"Half the show is watching his face as
he tells his stories." ITA
SMALLER HEALTH CARE PLANS TARGETS
OF DEPARTMENT OF LABOR AUDITS
PREPARATIONS CAN HELP
BOISE, ID - Prior to the Affordable Care Act, audits
were primarily done on large groups of more than one
hundred. However, the Department of Labor and Employee Benefits Service Administration (EBSA) has concerns that small plans under 100 lives may not be in
compliance and has been to randomly perform plan
audits.
What May Trigger a DOL Audit?
Employers will probably never be told precisely
why their audit was initiated, but here are some commonly identified triggers:
 5500 Form Filings
 Employee Complaints
 The DOL’s Memorandum of Understanding with
the Internal Revenue Service
 Press tips and public visibility of a company or its
third-party vendors
 The DOL’s internal audit initiatives
 An audit of a plan’s auditor
What’s An Employer’s Risk?
The DOL has estimated that three out of four plans
they audit have an Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) violation. They have also estimated
that about 70 percent of audits with violations have
resulted in monetary fines to the employer, many of
which are very significant.
The Internal Revenue Code imposes excise taxes
for various failures of health care coverage requirements, including a $100 per day per affected individual
tax for failure to comply with group health plan requirements.
Employer groups normally get the news they have
been selected for an audit via a letter to the plan sponsor. The letter typically contains a long list of documents the Department of Labor would like to review.
 Many DOL audit requests are generic
 Unique requests may indicate a particular focus of
an investigation
The request for information typically goes back at least
three years, but typically no more than six.
 The plan sponsor is usually given several weeks to
prepare for the audit, maybe less.
What Next?
Once you have received an initial audit request, the
DOL typically contacts the plan sponsor to arrange for
an in person meeting or phone interview. At this meet-
ing the DOL auditor will meet with the plan sponsor and
personnel with responsibility for the plan. The auditor will
conduct interviews, review requested documents and possibly request, obtain and review additional documentation.
Advance preparation for an audit is CRITICAL:
 If your group is 100 or larger, you may want to notify
your plan auditor and legal counsel if available.
 Identify all other third-parties involved in the administration of your plan.
 Identify a point-person to gather all materials and conduct initial communications with the DOL and an individual who will provide the primary answers to questions in the meeting.
 Make sure all materials requested by the DOL are on
hand, as well have the recent copies of all plan documents available.
 Be prepared to provide contact information for all plan
service providers.
 Have all health plan policies and procedures readily
available. (The auditor will be looking for gaps between
plan procedures and what actually is being done in
practice.
 The health plan in effect at that time and/or any
collective bargaining agreement with provisions
relative to health coverage of beneficiaries, and
 All records documenting cost-sharing (fixed and
percentage), employer contributions towards all
plan tiers, and any annual and/or lifetime limits
on benefits.
 If your plan has rescinded coverage for any individual, the plan must be prepared to provide:
 List of all affected beneficiaries
 Documentation of the reasons for each rescission,
and
 Copy of the written notice that was provided to
each affected beneficiary at least 30 days in advance of a rescission of coverage.
 MLR Rebates – be prepared to document:
 If you received a rebate, how any portion that is a
plan asset was handled under ERISA’s standards
of fiduciary conduct,
 How rebates were distributed and the methodology for the distribution,
How Far Back Will It Go?
 Department of Labor audit requests usually go back a
minimum of three years.
 The DOL will often ask for additional information
about prior years if they find a significant error.
(Continued on page 10)
ITA NEWS BRIEFS
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(Continued from page 1)
TIMTC, USDOT TO SPONSOR A WEBINAR
SHOWCASING TRUCKING INDUSTRY
TECHNOLOGY
ARLINGTON, VA – Trucking industry stakeholders
are invited to participate in a free webinar to hear trucking industry experts discuss their real-world experiences
with several different types of cutting-edge truck technologies.
Representatives from Con-way Freight, Boyle Transportation, James Burg Trucking and Maverick Transportation will highlight the benefits and costs of several technologies that improve fleet safety and/or increase productivity. Motor carriers have many technology options to
choose from and this webinar will provide valuable insight into some of the most useful systems hitting the
marketplace.
The technologies discussed will include:
 Roll stability systems




Tank Truck class; and Scott Beal, FedEx Freight, in the Twin
Trailers class.
Michael Perkins, FedEx Ground, will represent Idaho in
the National Step Van Driving Championships, a separate
competition held at the same time.
In addition, Josh Jetton of Con-way Freight, scored a perfect 100 on the Pre-trip Inspection portion of the competition.
“Having the opportunity to judge was like having a front
row seat at the Truck Driving Olympics,” said Dan Bernert,
general manager of BCT, Inc. and a resource transport director on the Idaho Trucking Association Board of Directors. “I
was in awe of the credentials of the drivers participating in the
event. Most had decades of service and millions of accidentfree miles to their credit. To witness and ultimately feel the
professional pride, spirit of competition, and the prestige of
being named the best of the best, made me proud to be part of
our industry.”
The results for the nine vehicle classes are listed along
with the driver’s hometown, and the name of his or her company. Special awards are given to the driver with the best pretrip inspection, the rookie of the year, a grand champion, and
the overall team of the year:
Collision mitigation systems
Tire pressure monitoring systems
Specialized heavy haul equipment
Driver monitoring systems
And more…
Join TIMTC and the USDOT on June 26th for the
Trucking Industry Technology Showcase. Click here to
register today!
WHAT: Trucking Industry Technology Showcase
WHEN: Thursday, June 26, 2014, 2:00 – 3:30 p.m. ET
(1:00 – 2:30 p.m. CT)
HOW: Participants will need access to the internet and a
telephone. For your free registration, please visit the
TIMTC website at www.freightmobility.com. An email
with instructions for joining the webinar will be sent to all
registrants.
Interested in becoming involved with TIMTC? Participation is free and provides the latest information and
update.
Contact: Katie Fender
(651) 641-6162
2014 4-Axle Van Class
1st Place:
James Neavear
Hometown: Blackfoot
Company: FedEx Freight
2nd Place: Kurt Davis
Hometown: Pocatello
Company: Con-way Freight
3rd Place:
Joseph Hill
Hometown: Marsing
Company: Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc.
2014 5-Axle Van Class
1st Place:
Bill Hill, Jr.
Hometown: Marsing
Company: Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc.
2nd Place: Michael Johnston
Hometown: Idaho Falls
Company: Doug Andrus Distributing
3rd Place:
Michael Grogan
Hometown: Kuna
Company: Con-way Freight
ITA NEWS BRIEFS
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2014 3-Axle Van Class
1st Place:
Jeffrey Halford
Hometown: Meridian
Company: Con-way Freight
Step Van Class
Winner:
Michael Perkins
Hometown: Emmett
Company: FedEx Ground
2nd Place: Robert Sutton II
Hometown: Meridian
Company: ABF Freight System, Inc.
2nd Place: Ryan Hansen
Hometown: Eagle
Company: FedEx Ground
3rd Place:
Mike Shipley
Hometown: Blackfoot
Company: FedEx Freight
3rd Place:
Jerry Healy
Hometown: Boise
Company: FedEx Ground
2014 Flatbed Class
1st Place:
Tim Brown
Hometown: Twin Falls
Company: Arlo G. Lott Trucking
2014 Sleeper Berth Class
1st Place:
Dan Istre
Hometown: Caldwell
Company: USF Reddaway
2nd Place: Jeff Wright
Hometown: Shelley
Company: Doug Andrus Distributing
2nd Place: Tom Kelley
Hometown: Nampa
Company: Gordon Trucking, Inc.
3rd Place:
Shawn Houser
Hometown: Caldwell
Company: BCT, Inc.
3rd Place:
Shannon Potter
Hometown: Rigby
Company: Doug Andrus Distributing
2014 Twin-Trailers Class
1st Place:
Scott Beal
Hometown: Kuna
Company: FedEx Freight
2014 Tank Truck Class
1st Place:
Curtis Smith
Hometown: Idaho City
Company: FedEx Freight
2nd Place: Tim Melody
Hometown: Payette
Company: ABF Freight System, Inc.
2nd Place: Paul Callahan
Hometown: Boise
Company: USF Reddaway
3rd Place:
Edwin Miranda
Hometown: Nampa
Company: Con-way Freight
3rd Place:
Blair Shumway
Hometown: Meridian
Company: Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc.
PAGE 6
ITA NEWS BRIEFS
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Team Champion: FedEx Freight
Straight Truck Class
1st Place:
Daryl Barnett
Hometown: Mountain Home
Company: FedEx Freight
2nd Place: Joshua Jetton
Hometown: Wilder
Company: Con-way Freight
Best Pre-Trip:
Winner:
Josh Jetton
Hometown: Wilder
Company: Con-way Freight
THANK YOU
EQUIPMENT DONORS
ABF Freight System, Inc.
Con-way Freight
Diamond Line Delivery System
FedEx Freight
FedEx Ground
Kenworth Sales Company
Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc.
USF Reddaway
Rookie of the Year:
Winner:
Blair Shumway
Hometown: Meridian
Company: Old Dominion Freight Line
PAGE 7
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PAGE 8
TRUCK DRIVING
CHAMPIONSHIP VOLUNTEERS
Angie Redfern, Kenworth Sales Company
Barbara Powers
Bill Pahl, Kenworth Sales Company
Bill Santo, Kenworth Sales Company
Bob Lepper, Doug Andrus Distributing
Chris Cheatham, FedEx
Chuck Mecham, Doug Andrus Distributing
Courtney Hill, Simplot Transportation
Curtis Hutchinson, Arlo G. Lott Trucking
Dan Bernert, BCT Inc.
Darlene Henning, CWI — Professional Truck
Driving Program
Duane Worthington, Rich Thompson
Brad Pipal and Barbara Powers (left to right) help judges Dan Bernert & Julie
Trucking
Armes with problem #2.
Gary Barnes, Western Idaho Freightliner
George Hurst, Reed Hurst Trucking
Greg Lobato, Western Idaho Freightliner
J.B. Worthington, Rich Thompson Trucking
Jake Young
Jeanette Lepper, Doug Andrus Distributing
Jenny Bellmont, Western Idaho Freightliner
John Rhodes, Coast to Coast Auto Transport
Jolene Hurst, Reed Hurst Trucking
Julie Armes, Hub International Mountain States
Karen Prestwich
Kayla Beal
Kevin Kratzberg, Kenworth Sales Company
Kristi Halford
Mark Johnson, Hub Transportation
Matt Borchardt, Kenworth Sales Company
Sgt. Colin Bonner and volunteer Courtney Hill working
Max Lang, Simplot Transportation
the pre-trip inspection.
McKenzie Neil
Ron Edwards, Kenworth Sales Company
Scott Beal Jr.
Steve Riggott, Doug Andrus Distributing
Toby Bellmont, Western Idaho Freightliner
Tracy Younger, CWI – Professional Truck Driving
Program
Vicki Termine – Simplot Transportation
THANK YOU!!
Judges Dwayne Worthington &
Mark Johnson at problem #5.
2014 TDC Sponsors
Executive
J. J. Keller & Associates
Kenworth Sales Company
Promoter
Cooper Norman CPA’s and Business Advisors
Advocate
Great West Casualty Company
Jerome Peterbilt
Simplot Transportation
Supporter
Arlo G. Lott Trucking, Inc.
Ballard & Co. Inc. Insurances
College of Western Idaho
Commercial Tire
Diamond Line Delivery Systems, Inc.
Freightliner of Idaho, LLC
Hub Transportation Insurance Services, Inc.
Idaho Milk Transport Inc.
Supporter Continued
Pilot Travel Centers
Rich Thompson Trucking, Inc.
Rush Truck Centers
Sysco of Boise, Inc.
Trebar Financial Services
Wagner Transportation Company
Western Idaho Freightliner
Western Trailers Sales Co.
Special Thanks to:
Arlo G. Lott Trucking………...Grand Champion jacket
Kenworth Sales Company…...….breakfast item donations
Sysco of Boise, Inc.……..lunch item donations
Pilot Travel Centers…………..chapsticks & hand sanitizers
Treasure Valley Coffee……...………...coffee service
Western Idaho Freightliner………...Friday lunch & Meridian
Speedway tickets
ITA NEWS BRIEFS
T R A N S P O R T
FROM OUR AFFINITY PARTNERS
IT’S GO TIME: 10 REASONS TO MAKE THE
SWITCH TO E-LOGS
A Mandate Is Coming
On March 28, 2014, the proposal requiring electronic
logging devices was released. The proposal requires
electronic logging devices (ELDs) for all interstate
drivers that are required to complete logs. After the
proposal is finalized, fleets will have 2 years to implement compliant ELDs, 4 years if the fleet already has
ELD’s in compliance with 49 CFR 395.15. And like
the thousands of fleets that have already done so,
proactively implementing E-Logs now under 395.15
will prevent rushing to comply with the mandate later.
Understand What Is — And Is Not — An E-Log
Some E-Log systems allow drivers to manually record their Hours of Service in an electronic application via a smartphone, computer or tablet. But if the
system is not synchronized with the engine using an
ELD/EOBR, then it’s regulated like a paper log — not
an E-Log. For an E-Log to be compliant with 395.15,
the E-Log system must be synchronized with the engine to properly record driving and non-driving time.
Visibility Of Data Is Key
Staying compliant with the Hours of Service rule is,
of course, paramount. And electronic logging is the
most reliable method available. But the key to getting
the most from your E-Log investment is having access to full compliance and performance data. The
best E-Log solutions are part of a system that also
allows you to identify and manage compliance tasks
such as driver qualification, drug & alcohol program
management, and driver training. Some systems also
provide data to help you track fuel, speed, braking,
and GPS location to build a complete picture of driver performance.
E-Logs Can Help Manage CSA Scores
With E-Logs, you can eliminate virtually all form and
manner logging violations under CSA’s Hours of Service Compliance BASIC. This is critical since a poor
score in this BASIC could push your fleet to the top
of the FMCSA investigation list, causing your drivers
to be targeted for roadside inspections, where even
more BASIC violations could be uncovered.
E-Logs Can Help Increase Efficiency
Using E-Logs makes it quick and easy to conduct
Hours of Service audits so you can identify compliance gaps. Plus, some E-Log systems enable you to
view driver vehicle inspection reports (DVIRs) to
more effectively manage your inspection program.
E-Logs Can Help Improve Safety
Making the change to E-Logs not only has the potential to improve compliance, it can also improve safety. This is due to the fact that unlike paper logs, it’s
impossible to falsify an E-Log, so drivers are more
likely to stop driving when they’re required to, preventing a fatigued operator from causing an accident
that leads to injuries — or even fatalities.
Not All E-Log Systems Are Created Equal
Some E-Log systems are purpose-built devices that
are permanently mounted in the vehicle cab. Others
are mobile devices that drivers or carriers are required to purchase. Still other systems offer applications that can run on the driver’s or carrier’s own
mobile devices. And then there are those systems
that allow a combination of options. It’s important to
understand these differences and identify which setup is best for your fleet.
Not All E-Log Systems Are Compatible With
All Vehicles
Depending on the types and classes of vehicles in
your fleet, some E-Logs systems won’t work for you.
That’s because some solutions only work on heavy-
N E W S
PAGE 9
MEMBER ANNIVERSARIES
Thank you for renewing your
membership to ITA in April
We value your support!
Utility Trailer Sales of Boise
Western Trailer Sales Company
ATC Leasing Company
Blaine Larsen Farms, Inc.
Champion Concrete Pumping, Inc.
Doug Andrus Distributing
Nampa Paving & Asphalt Company
Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc.
Richard Nordstrom Logging, Inc.
Simplot Transportation
duty Class 7 and 8 vehicles, and others only work on
light- and medium-duty vehicles (often referred to as
OBD-II vehicles). The J. J. Keller Encompass™ E-Log
system is an example of an option that works with all
vehicle classes.
Driver Training is Key
Getting drivers on-board with the transition to E-Logs,
and showing them how to use E-Logs properly are critical steps in the process. It’s a big adjustment for drivers, so be sure to invest the time required to train them
on the new systems, processes, and technology. Change
management is a critical component of a successful
rollout.
E-Logs Are Only the Beginning
Many E-Log systems offer even greater functionality
than just E-Logs. From E-DVIRs to full compliance and
performance management, you can choose a solution
that empowers you to improve regulatory compliance,
improve performance management, and even improve
fleet profitability.
To learn about the J. J. Keller Encompass™ E-Log
and fleet management system,
visit jjkellerelogs.com
ITA NEWS BRIEFS
T R A N S P O R T
(Continued from page 4)
 DOL audits usually do not go beyond six years.
 The employer may be asked by the DOL to enter into a
“tolling agreement” which stops the statute of limitations
clock while the auditor finalizes his/her report.
 Tolling agreements can minimize an employer’s risk and
fines.
How Does It End?
 After the interviews are concluded and all document requests are completed, the auditor will issue a final report.
 The final report may come as soon as a few weeks after
the interview, but there are documented cases where it
has taken five years from start to finish.
 The audit report will include a summary and may conclude that there were no Employee Retirement Income
Security Act violations.
 The report may point out minor problems and make recommendations or require corrective actions of more substantive errors.
 The DOL may also refer matters to the IRS.
What If The Employer Disagrees?
 DOL Audit determinations may be appealed.
 DOL has an internal appeals process that when utilized
may be able to prevent costly litigation.
 DOL often pursues voluntary compliance as a means to
correct violations and restore losses to employee benefit
plans.
Employers should also be aware that DOL does sometimes
pursue civil or criminal litigation as a result of audit investigations, and oftentimes excise tax penalties may be incurred
by the employer. ITA
This information is not to be construed as legal or financial
advice, but to be informational only. For more information
contact:
Phyllis Martinsen, HIA, Erstad & Company Account Manager. Cell: 208.867.7709 or [email protected].
www.erstadandcompany.com
LT. GOVERNOR TO USE FUNDRAISER TO
BENEFIT CAMPAIGN, HOPE HOUSE
BOISE, ID – Lieutenant Governor Brad Little will be
using an August fundraiser to primarily benefit a charity.
While the $25 per person gate proceeds will go to the
campaign, the Hope House will be the beneficiary of 100
percent of the funds generated from the live and silent
auction. The mission of Hope House, founded in 1973 and
incorporated in 1980, is to provide a home for children
with mental, physical or emotional challenges. The majority of Hope House residents come from difficult family
situations or failed adoptions.
“I have chosen to use this opportunity to raise money
for the Hope House children because I believe it is organizations like this one that can truly create hope and opportunity for vulnerable children in our state,” said Little in a
letter soliciting donations to the auction.
Hope House, a 501(c)3, accepts no local, state or federal funds, except those directly paid as benefits to individual children. The event will be held August 27th at
6p.m.
For more information contact the campaign office at
208.334.VOTE (8683). ITA
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PAGE 10
GET THE BEST FROM YOUR TIRES
MERIDIAN, ID – Earlier this month American Trucking
Associations highlighted the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance’s (CVSA) Road Check 2014 and Tire Safety Week. Both
events took place the first week in June, but the safety tips are
something that can positively impact carriers’ bottom line
throughout the year.
As part of those events, Idaho Trucking Association members Jack’s Tire & Oil, Inc. and Commercial Tire, as well as the
Idaho State Police, provided some reminders for tire safety and
longevity.
“Checking the tires is part of performing a good pre-trip
inspection,” said Captain William “Bill” Reese, head of the
Commercial Vehicle Safety unit of the Idaho State Police.
“What we often see is drivers who don’t check all of the tires’
surfaces, so we recommend drivers check the tire and then
move the truck to see the surface that was on the ground during the first inspection.”
According to information shared in an email by the American Trucking Associations Safety Management Council, tires
are among the highest expenses for fleets and owner-operators
and they accounted for 10 percent of out-of-service violations
during Road Check 2013.
George Hammon, corporate commercial sales manager for
Commercial Tire, says keeping a close eye on air pressure can
maximize fuel efficiency and help companies get the most out
of the life of the tire.
“The right inflation pressure can ensure the vehicle is running at peak fuel efficiency and minimize many types of irregular tire wear,” said Hammon. “This means the tires have a
longer useful life, and maintenance costs are reduced because
they are being handled less frequently.”
With more than 30 years in the tire business, Wayne May with
Jack’s Tire & Oil, Inc. advises that you are only as good as the
tools you use.
“We had a walk-in customer who religiously checked his
tire pressure but complained of always chasing the right inflation,” said May. “In most cases people assume checking the
pressure is enough, but we tested his tire gage found that it
wasn’t calibrated properly and was registering 15 pounds
over. The calibration of your gage is just as important.”
While air pressure was one of the foremost subjects when discussing tire safety, the Council recommended the following
five steps to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to getting
the best use and longest wear out of a vehicle’s tires:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Air pressure: Increase the life of your tires and maximize
fuel efficiency by making sure your tires are properly inflated. Poorly inflated tires can cause a road failure, as well as
decreased tread life, and added stress and possible failure of
the casing.
Alignment: Operating a vehicle without proper alignment
causes irregular wear. Driver fatigue can be caused by counter-steering due to alignment issues. Tires should be monitored for irregular wear and aligned as needed.
Matching tread depth: Mismatched tread depth can
cause excessive and rapid wear. Tires should be matched
within 1/8 of an inch (4/32) on an axle.
Consider retreads: Retreads maximize casing value and
have the same tread and capability of a new tire. Retreads
are an environmentally friendly and cost-effective solution.
Valve caps: Federal DOT regulations require drivers to
have valve caps on their tires at all times. A loose or faulty
valve cap can result in loss of air and tire pressure, which can
cause a tire to fail. ITA
HURRY - DUE DATE IS FRIDAY JUNE 20th
NOMINATE YOUR BEST EMPLOYEES TODAY!
SAFETY AWARD NOMINATIONS NEEDED
Awards for Safety Supervisor of the Year, Driver of the Year, Maintenance Person of the Year and Fleet Safety
Program
Please visit our website under Member Login to download the official entry forms.
https://members.idtrucking.org/login.php
ITA NEWS BRIEFS
T R A N S P O R T
N E W S
PAGE 11
REGISTER ONLINE NOW FOR
THE 56th ANNUAL
ROCKY MOUNTAIN
REGIONAL SAFETY RENDEZVOUS
JULY 16-18 2014
CODY, WYOMING
CLICK HERE: http://www.wytruck.org/
IDAHO TRUCKING ASSOCIATION’S TRAILER