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Oct 1, 2004 12:00 PM

An effort has failed in the United States Senate to establish an identification and tracking system for trucks hauling hazardous materials. The amendment was modified and tabled September 13 in a vote of 55-34. Also included in the initial amendment was funding for a background check system for all commercial driver licenses. The amendment would apply to House Bill 4567, which seeks appropriations for the Department of Homeland Security.

The modified amendment includes a proposed appropriation of $70 million to support efforts for hazmat identification and tracking. In addition, the financing would be used to continue and expand the background check system now in place for CDLs requiring hazmat endorsement. The amendment was introduced earlier by Sen Charles Schumer (D-NY). The initial effort was co-sponsored by Senators Hillary Rodham Clinton (D-NY) and Jon Corzine (D-NJ), according to Senate information.