Scarnati: Suspend Cross Border Trucking Project

WARREN--The Senate Transportation Committee today endorsed a resolution sponsored by State Senator Joe Scarnati (R-Jefferson) that calls on the President and Congress to cease funding for the Cross Border Trucking Demonstration Project.

According to Scarnati, the controversial demonstration project allows certain trucks of Mexican registry to be used in commerce on United States highways. Since 1982, Mexican trucks were prohibited from going further than 20 miles into the U.S., except in Arizona, where the limit was 75 miles.

“We certainly do not want to interfere with legitimate commerce, but the bottom line is they are taking good jobs away from hardworking Americans,” Scarnati said. “It is vital that we stop giving every advantage to the Mexican worker at the expense of American employees. Congress needs to act immediately and end this project.”

Scarnati also mentioned that he offered Senate Resolution 203 because of concerns about the economic and safety issues that the program creates with regard to freight transportation in Pennsylvania and other states. In many cases, he added, information concerning vehicle inspections, accident reports, insurance records and driver violations were not available for trucks taking part in the project.

Scarnati’s resolution also recognizes the potential for border security issues, and roadway hazards that could be aggravated under this program. If approved by the full Senate, Scarnati’s resolution will be transmitted to the President and members of the Pennsylvania Congressional delegation.