Federal initiatives that help motor carriers increase the safety and security of their operations implemented in close cooperation with United States counterparts in Canada and Mexico ensure the security and efficiency of cross-border operations, a top trucking executive testified before Congress recently. But the federal government should expedite similar endeavors that would improve the technology and infrastructure needed to enhance security of cross-border operations.
Speaking on behalf of the American Trucking Associations before a subcommittee of the US House Committee on Homeland Security, Steve Russell, chairman and chief executive officer of Indianapolis IN-based truckload carrier Celadon Group Inc, urged Congress to expedite programs that would improve technology and infrastructure to augment security at US ports of entry but also improve trade facilitation.
Celadon has more than 2,900 tractor trailers operating nationwide. Russell said the trucking industry considers the present security environment to be quite robust for cross-border operations along both the northern and southern borders and said such programs are heading in the right direction.
Russell urged Congress to continue supporting cross-border programs such as C-TPAT and FAST; encouraged DHS to take a lead role among federal agencies in managing point-of-entry systems and processes; and encouraged the committee to work with other congressional committees to analyze funding for improving border facilities and infrastructure.