Trucking news and briefs for Thursday, Nov. 7, 2024:
$2.1 million of alleged cocaine seized from truck
U.S. Customs and Border Protection Office of Field Operations officers at the Eagle Pass Port of Entry in Texas seized more than $2.1 million in narcotics in a single enforcement action.
Packages containing 162 pounds of cocaine were seized by CBP officers at the Eagle Pass Port of Entry.U.S. Customs and Border Protection
“This large cocaine seizure in the cargo environment reflects the reality of the drug threat our frontline officers face every day,” said Port Director Pete Beattie, Eagle Pass Port of Entry. “Our frontline officers utilize all their training, high-tech tools and resources as they conduct their examinations, and this seizure exemplifies our continued dedication to CBP’s border security mission.”
CBP seized the narcotics and the tractor-trailer. Homeland Security Investigations special agents initiated a criminal investigation.
[Related: Two big drug busts in trucks at border]
Port of Oakland receives $322 million EPA grant for 'zero emission' transition
The Port of Oakland, one of the country's busiest ports with over $174 billion in annual economic activity, has been awarded a $322 million grant from the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Clean Ports Program to expedite its conversion to almost 100% "zero emissions" cargo operations. To date, this is the largest amount of federal-level funding for a Bay Area program.
Combined matching contributions from various local partners and the Port, an estimated half a billion dollars in total investment will be used for these initiatives. The EPA Clean Ports Program was approved as part of 2022's Inflation Reduction Act, which made a total of $3 billion available to fund and implement zero-emissions technologies at U.S. ports.
The grant will specifically be used to finance 663 pieces of zero-emissions equipment, including 475 drayage trucks and 188 pieces of cargo handling equipment.
“The Clean Ports grant from the U.S. EPA is a major environmental victory,” said Port of Oakland Board President Michael Colbruno. “We are grateful to U.S. Senators Laphonza Butler and Alex Padilla, Congresswoman Barbara Lee, and the Bay Area congressional delegation who stood together in strong advocacy for this grant. This funding will go a long way toward decarbonizing the Oakland supply chain and providing environmental and economic benefits for the region.”
A variety of partners benefitting from the grant in a variety of ways include the Black Cultural Zone, Machinist's Institute, Bay Area Air Quality Management District, Forum Mobility, WattEV, and Talon Logistics.
[Related: Electric-truck purchase incentives present big challenges for small fleets, owner-operators]
Truck leasing company offering veterans discount program for owner-ops
Transport Enterprise Leasing (TEL) has launched a discount program in support of military veterans in the commercial trucking industry.
According to TEL President and Co-Founder Jud Alexander, the initiative aims to help veterans succeed as independent owner-operators by lowering their initial business costs.
The program offers a $750 discount on the security deposit for a new truck lease with TEL. The process to qualify is simple. See TEL’s website for full details on steps to apply.
“TEL supports military veterans because it’s the right thing to do, and because it’s good for commercial trucking,” Alexander said. “Veterans have made sacrifices for our nation and deserve everyone’s appreciation. They also are known for being excellent and dedicated commercial drivers.”
