The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) is opposing a future federal pilot program that would allow Mexican truckers to drive beyond the 20-mile southern border commercial zone to which they are now restricted, according to OOIDA information.
OOIDA reacted to published remarks by Maria Cino, Department of Transportation acting secretary, that the proposed one-year pilot program would involve about 100 Mexican motor carriers and could be unveiled by the end of 2006.
Todd Spencer, OOIDA executive vice-president, said the "United States is not in a position to address the safety and security issues of Mexico-domiciled trucks and trucking companies operating with free reign on US highways." OOIDA maintains that truck safety considerations and serious homeland security concerns remain regarding Mexican-domiciled drivers and trucking companies.