U.S. Department of Transportation
Office of Public Affairs
1200 New Jersey Ave., S.E.
Washington, DC 20590
www.dot.gov/affairs/index.html

Friday, April 8, 2011
Contact: Justin Nisly
Tel: (202) 366-4570

DOT Announces Proposed Agreement on U.S.-Mexico Cross-Border Trucking that Emphasizes Safety and Efficiency

Today the U.S. Department of Transportation released the details of a proposed, phased long-haul, cross-border trucking program between the United States and Mexico. The proposed new program prioritizes safety, while satisfying the United States’ international obligations. It also builds upon the progress announced by Presidents Obama and Calderon in early March.

After the previous program was terminated in March 2009, Secretary LaHood and other Administration officials met with lawmakers, safety advocates, industry representatives and other stakeholders to address a broad range of concerns. DOT has continued that dialogue and has taken concerns raised into account as it has worked with Mexico to develop a new program.

The proposed new program puts safety first. When implemented, it also will promote economic opportunities and job growth here in the United States.

The proposed program is described in a Federal Register notice, and the public is encouraged to comment. Once the notice is published in the Federal Register, the public will have 30 days to submit comments. After the close of the comment period, DOT will formally respond to comments and take those comments into account as it develops and implements a final program.

Click here to view the Federal Register notice.