Mike's Memo

Truckers’ Woes Go Well Beyond Fuel Costs

A convoy of concerned truckers recently traveled to Harrisburg to draw attention to the economic woes they face as the cost of diesel fuel continues to skyrocket.

I had the opportunity to meet with some of these truckers, and I was surprised to learn that the cost of diesel is just one of the many issues they face.  Taxes, tolls, and fees – such as sales taxes, tire and utility taxes, and registration fees – all eat into their bottom line. Truck tires, which can cost around $400 each, and health care and government imposed mandates also represent additional costs.

Other headaches for truckers are state (and local) regulations.  Independent truckers believe they are given special attention and are singled out for enforcement – some would even say harassment. “If you’re stopped, you’re all but guaranteed to be cited for something – even if it’s picayune,” said one trucker.

Trucks are the backbone of our economy.  Almost anything that you buy or use is delivered by a truck:  the food you eat, the clothes you wear, and the products you consume.  Many of the costs truckers face cannot be passed along.  Many would be out of business if they lost just one week of work.  The future is bleak.

I believe solutions to many trucker problems lie with the federal government, such as not using tax moneys to subsidize other businesses (i.e., creating winners and losers), establishing national transportation and energy policies, and ensuring consistency in taxes and regulations. I believe there are also a number of things we can do on the state level to ease the burdens truckers face.  A big first step would be cutting government red tape.  Like other segments of our economy, truckers need government to “get off their back…” inspectors need to know the rules and to apply them with common sense (for example, having one cab light out of 106 should not be a $275 fine).

We also need to make sure state government doesn’t make things worse for the trucking industry. That’s why I have been asking questions about the proposed sale of the Pennsylvania Turnpike.  It’s also why I voted against the tolling of Interstate 80.  Before we add any additional transportation costs, we need to look at how we are presently spending money to address transportation needs.

While much of this begins with the cost of fuel, it goes well beyond fuel costs.  The next time you are in a grocery store, think about what it takes to get that loaf of bread, gallon on milk or head of lettuce to you. Then, ask yourself, what would I do if the cost to deliver this item increased because of a rise in fuel costs?  For truckers, the answer all too often is to eat the cost. 

Primary Election Day

Please note that all Senate offices will be closed Tuesday, April 22^nd for the Primary Election.  Please be sure to exercise your Constitutional rights by voting!