California Construction Trucking Association (CCTA)

It is with deep regret that I announce the death of my “Smart Phone” due to an unfortunate event involving my washing machine.

Despite my complaints, I actually learned to send a text message and access my email.  It took me two days to gather my courage to report this tragic news to my supervisor, who kindly informed me that Siri and the phone were insured. 

I will remove the phone from my bag of rice (Sprint told me sometimes this works) and proceed to the Apple Store for a replacement.  Strangely, I miss the convenience of a phone that I originally despised. 

A rule with a thousand cuts

Last month’s magazine was full of information and I hope you read the article on the Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) beginning on page 10.  As if things weren’t bad enough in Crazy California we are now going to be treated to another “feel good” rule, compliments of AB 32. 

Yes, once again California will show the rest of the world how serious we are about Global Warming, with new gas and diesel which are predicted to drive prices up even further.  Sadly I have come to realize that until folks are directly impacted by a rule or law they just do not have the time or the energy to realize what is happening. 

Early in 2011 I spoke to a group in Stockton about the Truck/Bus Rule when a gentleman spoke up and said, “My family used to have a dairy located between Lodi and Stockton, it is gone now because of environmental regulations regarding cow manure and methane gasses, no one spoke when we were forced to close.” 

“Well sir,” I said, “I owe you an apology, because if I did read about your dilemma, I probably rationalized that the only thing I had in common with a dairy farmer was that I like milk.”

Pay attention

I urge all of you to pay strict attention to this LCFS and pass the word to your friends that this will affect them also, even if they do not own a truck.  The increased costs will be reflected in ALL products we consume, at a time when we can least afford it. 

I have made a vow to get this word out and recently spoke to our local Chamber of Commerce and to anyone else who will listen.  I urge you to do the same.  Remember, this is not about the health effects of diesel; this LCFS is only about Global Warming.

It was a highlight of June to work our booth at the Great West Truck Show in Las Vegas (by the way Nevada, you have great highways.)  On Saturday morning Sean Edgar did a presentation on the Truck/Bus Rule and it was both interesting and sad to watch the out-of-state carriers receive this news for the first time. 

More than once several said, “This should not be legal.”

Our thoughts exactly, which is one reason I am delighted beyond words that Joe Rajkovacz has come on board with the Western Trucking Alliance.  Interstate Carriers who come to California will now have a voice and we can certainly use their support as we continue to fight this David vs. Goliath battle.

With elections coming in just four months the most important thing you can do is acquaint yourselves with those running for office.  Find out where they stand on CARB and the other issues that are killing jobs.  If they are unfamiliar with what is happening, give them a magazine. 

The most important thing we can do now is demand some oversight on CARB from those we elect to represent us.

We must not wait until the cows come home.  The way this state is headed, they just never may show up.