2021 Q1 - Winter Issue by Oklahoma Motor Carrier

2021 1st Quarter oktrucking.org

Winter Issue Volume 30

CARRIER SPOTLIGHT: Dolese Bros Co.

2020 DRIVER OF THE YEAR ROBERT ROSSI

VIRTUAL MIDWINTER CONFERENCE

VIRTUAL SAFETY AWARDS

ALLIED INDUSTRY: DriverReach

2021 1st Quarter | Winter Issue Oklahoma Trucking Association 3909 North Lindsay Avenue Oklahoma City, OK, 73105 (405) 525-9488 www.oktrucking.org

STAYCONNECTED

FROM THE CEO

CHAIRMAN’S CORNER

NATIONAL NEWS

INDUSTRY & FEDERAL NEWS

STATE NEWS

CARRIER SPOTLIGHT – DOLESE BROS CO.

VIRTUAL MIDWINTER CONFERENCE

SAFETY ZONE

VIRTUAL SAFETY AWARDS

ALLIED INDUSTRY – DRIVER REACH

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The Oklahoma Motor Carrier (OMC) is published after each quarter recapping current national, state and membership issues. Office of publication, Southwestern Stationary, OKC, OK. Bulk Rate postage paid at OKC, OK. Please address all correspondance to 3909 N. Lindsay Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73105.

Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | Q1

GEARING UP FOR THE FUTURE

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ASSOCIATION LEADERSHIP ASSOCIATION MEET THE STAFF

ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chairman of Board | Adam Dye Southwest Trailers & Equipment

CEO | Jim Newport (P) 405.525.9488 x3 jimnewport@oktrucking.org Director of Events | Rebecca Chappell (P) 405.525.9488 x1 rebeccachappell@oktrucking.org

THANK YOU SPONSORS Throughout the year the OTA turns to our partners to work toward successful events, programs and operations! We are thankful for each of our sponsors and would like to highlight our top donors. Without each of our members and investors the OTA would not be able to achieve its mission!

Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | Q1

FROM THE CEO 2021 LEGISLATIVE SESSION The official first day of the First Session of Oklahoma’s 58th Legislature began Monday, February 1st. January 21, 2021 was the day for legislators to file their ideas for potential new laws (ideas). After the first glance of the 3,047 filed bills, nearly 50 could immediately be thrown into the “could affect trucking” category. Senate Bill 593 is of special importance and was requested by the OTA. It is to repeal the unintentional 1.25% tax placed on CMV Trailers in a 2018 special session. That 2018 special session vote hurt Oklahoma and Oklahoma trucking companies. Your OTA has never given up on educating legislators about Oklahoma trucking companies being disadvantaged for trailer purchases and registrations. This unfortunate policy forced many Oklahoma companies to make the decision to purchase and register new trailer equipment out of state. Worse still, other large out of state fleets that used to register thousands of trailers in Oklahoma, have begun registering elsewhere and sending those dollars to other states. That means states other than Oklahoma’s law enforcement, schools, and infrastructure are enjoying new dollars that used to benefit Oklahoma. With national statistics showing record levels of new trailer sales, the problem becomes clearer. Although COVID stalled our effort last year, Senator Thompson has authored SB593 this year. He saw the drastic decrease of new trailer registrations since 2018. At this time, the bill has made it through the Senate and shows promise in the House with Floor Leader Echols carrying the bill. Other bills your association has been supporting along the way include legislation that will create more Third Party CDL Examiners. This should ultimately help dissolve the backlog of CDL applicants waiting to test and help fill empty driver seats. Another helpful piece of legislation would remove liability if a trucker must flee from a riot or protest to avoid harm. In the way of legal reform, we support a system to be put in place for selecting a special judge to preside over an Oklahoma Supreme Court case if a regular Supreme Court justice recuses themselves. Currently the Chief Justice picks whomever they like which could alter the outcome of the case being decided. Another small legal reform measure also related to the OK Supreme Court requires them to publish and maintain a public calendar of their court docket. The Supreme Court currently does not. Therefore, there is no notice for when important cases might be heard. These reforms may seem small, but they are safeguards needed in place before more significant reforms could be attempted. The OTA has already had success this session on pushing back a couple of unfriendly trucking bills. One would’ve negatively impacted package shippers like FedEx and UPS by eliminating direct wine shipments. Another would have drastically raised fees on used truck tires and redirected those monies to an area completely unrelated to tire recycling. We are closely monitoring SB’s 691 and 617 by Senator Allen. These bills repeat his similar legislation from past years that would transfer regulatory authority from the OK Corporation Commission to the OK Department of Public Safety (Highway Patrol) at Oklahoma’s Ports of Entries. The OTA has legislative and regulatory relationships on both sides of this issue and have remained neutral. Trucking issues will not go away. To be “the Voice of Trucking” in Oklahoma, the OTA needs truck friendly legislators. Campaign contributions occur at least every two-year election cycle. Your OTA needs to be able to financially contribute to pro-trucking legislators to build relationships and influence. In Oklahoma, it is illegal for a corporation to give money to a PAC. That means your OK TruckPAC is funded by your personal contribution from your pocket. Trucking provides you a living. Contributing back to the protection of the industry that puts food on your table is common sense and you should not expect others to do it while you do not. Make an annual pledge amount and start contributing today. As an example, a pledge of $500/year is only about $9.50 per week! Double it, triple it, or even cut that amount in half but step up, make a pledge, and start contributing. A monthly, quarterly, or annual contribution is easy to fill out online here: https://oktrucking.org/get-involved/oktruckpac/

Jim Newport CEO/President Oklahoma Trucking Association

Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | Q1

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Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | Q1

CHAIRMAN’S CORNER Hello friends and Members of OTA, The first quarter of 2021 is already off to a fast start. Our nation’s economy and the need for trucking to move freight across our nation seem to be at an all-time high. There continues to be optimism about the remainder of the year. Mostly due to our state and how efficiently they handled the roll out and availability of COVID-19 vaccines. Oklahoma residents can now get the vaccination if they choose to and that has started to make our lives seem a little bit more normal. Many of our members, both carrier and allied, have taken the proper steps to ensure that their drivers and staff can receive the vaccine with minimal workplace disruptions or downtime. Trucking’s essentiality was felt more than ever in the past twelve months and I am proud to share that OTA’s involvement with state leaders helped allow our industry to operate with fewer complications. The OTA held our annual Midwinter Virtual Conference on Wednesday, March 3rd. It was very well attended and as always, we had a great lineup of content and speakers. Dan Horvath, Vice President of Safety Policy at ATA provided safety and regulatory updates as we progress into a new DOT Administration. We had Lynn Gray who is the Director of Economic Research & Analysis at the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission give insight into our state’s current economic and employment conditions and forecast for the future. David Bauer, Vice President of State & Tax Policy at ATA updated us on ATA’s strategy for Legal Reform and targeting certain states on what can be done. Lastly, we wrapped up with our regulatory panel which consisted of key representatives from the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety Troop S, FMCSA, and the Oklahoma Corporation Commission. Thank you to all our participants, speakers, and sponsors during the Midwinter Virtual Conference! We have some exciting upcoming events this spring and summer which include the Truck Driving Championship at the Embassy Suites and OSU-OKC on June 11-12, and our Summer Golf Shoot-out on June 25th. Keep up to date information by checking the OTA’s website at oktrucking.org or by checking your weekly OTA Tip Sheet which is emailed out to members every Tuesday. Lastly, I want to remind everyone to consider making contributions to our OK TruckPac or our Legislative Success Fund. These can be donations sent in personally (OK TruckPac) or by having your company send one in (LSF). Our industry and voice benefits greatly when we have a healthy Political Action Committee. Your contributions will financially support legislators who are trucking friendly advocates for the industry. I appreciate all of you for your support and participation with OTA. Our association was able to retain financial strength throughout the pandemic and it is due to our supportive members and your commitment to remain the “Voice of Trucking” in Oklahoma. Many thanks to all of you, Adam Dye

Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | Q1

NATIONAL NEWS

ATA PLEASED BY NINTH CIRCUIT RULING UPHOLDING MEAL AND REST BREAK PREEMPTION

January 15 | ATA | Sean McNally

meal and rest break rule, preventing them from being rlington, Virginia – American Trucking enforced against interstate truck drivers, noting the Associations hailed a decision by the United States rules would force those drivers to comply with two Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit upholding the competing sets of hours-of-service rules. federal preemption of the state of California’s meal Today’s unanimous ruling by the Ninth Circuit and rest break rules as they apply to truck drivers found that not only does the subject to federal hours-of-service federal government have the regulations. authority to review and preempt “The Court’s ruling is a The unanimous state safety rules, but the threevictory for common sense over decision confirms FMCSA’s bureaucracy and the plaintiffs judge panel agreed with the authority to review state DOT’s conclusion that “federal bar,” said ATA President and commercial vehicle rules. CEO Chris Spear. “When the regulations adequately and more appropriately balanced the Department of Transportation preempted California’s rules, it competing interests between was a victory for highway safety, ensuring that there safety and economic burden,” than allowing states to impose a patchwork of competing regulations. is one uniform standard for trucking regulations. By “We hope this ruling sends a strong message upholding DOT’s authority to be the sole regulator to other states that they are not allowed to impose of interstate trucking, the Ninth Circuit is preventing states and trial lawyers from creating a costly and additional regulatory burdens on interstate commerce,” Spear said. “We thank DOT and the Court inefficient patchwork of competing rules.” for upholding the principle that federal regulatory In 2018, after bipartisan efforts to enact a primacy is critical for maintaining safe and efficient legislative fix failed, ATA petitioned the U.S. Department of Transportation to preempt California’s transportation.” Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | Q1

INDUSTRY AND FEDERAL NEWS FMCSA PROPOSES NEW PILOT PROGRAM TO PROVIDE COMMERCIAL DRIVERS ADDITIONAL HOUSE OF SERVICE January 21 | FMCSA

regarding potential split periods of 6/4 or 5/5. During the ASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Transportation’s comment period, the Agency did not receive any additional data Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administrator (FMCSA) or studies regarding these options, so this new pilot program will announced a new proposed pilot program for commercial motor work to gather this additional data. As the lead federal agency vehicle (CMV) drivers to evaluate two additional options for responsible for America’s CMV safety and operations, FMCSA splitting sleeper berth periods – a 6/4 split and a 5/5 split. is the entity best positioned to collect empirical data on potential “FMCSA continues to explore ways to provide flexibility split sleeper periods. for drivers, while maintaining safety on our roadways. This FMCSA has worked closely with motor carrier stakeholders proposed pilot program will provide needed data and feedback on the issue of sleeper berth periods. Both for the Agency to use now and in the motor carriers and organized labor have future. Gathering more data on splitsupported efforts to explore additional sleeper flexibility will benefit all CMV Proposed Pilot options, including the International stakeholders. We encourage everyone to Brotherhood of Teamsters, who stated that review this proposal and provide their To Evaluate 6/4 and 5/5 “the majority of Teamster team drivers… public comments,” said FMCSA Deputy Sleeper Berth Splits indicated they preferred having more Administrator Wiley Deck. flexibility in the time that they can obtain During the proposed pilot program, restorative rest periods.” participating drivers would have the During the Trump Administration, FMCSA has focused option to split their 10 hours of sleeper berth time into two on providing additional flexibility for commercial drivers, while periods, provided that the two periods provide a combined rest maintaining the highest level of safety. In May 2020, FMCSA amount of at least 10 hours in length. When operating under the published updates to the hours-of-service rules that were based pilot program exemption, drivers would be expected to split their directly off the feedback the Agency heard from commercial drivers sleeper berth time into two periods such that neither period is regarding the need for increased flexibility and improved safety. less than four hours in length; however, drivers would be free to The Federal Register notice will have a 60-day comment choose whether or not to operate under the exemption based on period. To read the Agency’s notice of the proposed pilot their schedule. Carriers and drivers desiring to participate would program, visit: https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/regulations/hoursapply to FMCSA for acceptance in the proposed pilot program. service-drivers-pilot-program-allow-commercial-drivers-splitAs part of its rulemaking process on Hours of Service sleeper-berth-time. reform, FMCSA asked for public input for additional data

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Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | Q1

INDUSTRY AND FEDERAL NEWS

TRUCKING INDUSTRY APPLAUDS INTRODUCTION OF DRIVE SAFE ACT

March 10 | ATA | Sean McNally

the safest, most responsible 18- to 20-year-olds to more fully rlington, VA — American Trucking Associations applauded participate in our industry. It will create enormous opportunities the introduction of the DRIVE Safe Act in both the U.S. House for countless Americans seeking a high-paying profession without and Senate by a group of bipartisan legislators. The legislation the debt burden that comes with a four-year degree.” addresses the economy’s growing shortage of professional truck Under the proposed legislation, after a driver meets the drivers by expanding job opportunities for younger members of the requirements currently in place to obtain a CDL, they can then trucking workforce, while also strengthening safety training and begin a two-step program of additional training, which includes technology safeguards for select candidates looking to participate rigorous performance benchmarks. The program requires these in interstate commerce early in their careers. drivers to complete at least 400 hours of The DRIVE-Safe Act was introduced on-duty time and 240 hours of driving time by Sens. Todd Young (R-Indiana), Jon Bipartisan bill aims to with an experienced driver in the cab with Tester (D-Montana), Joe Manchin (D-West Virginia), Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas), bolster trucking workforce, them. All trucks used for training in the program must be equipped with advanced Angus King (I-Maine), Krysten Sinema enhance safety training and safety technology including active braking (D-Arizona), Jerry Moran (R-Kansas) collision mitigation systems, video event and Jim Inhofe (R-Oklahoma) in the technology standards. capture and a speed governor set at 65 Senate, and by Reps. Trey Hollingsworth miles per hour or less. Only once all these (R-Indiana), Jim Cooper (D-Tennessee), benchmarks are successfully met will the candidate be permitted Henry Cuellar (D-Texas), Elissa Slotkin (D-Michigan), Jared to cross state lines. Golden (D-Maine), Troy Balderson (R-Ohio), Ashley Hinson The truck driver shortage is expected to grow worse in (R-Iowa), Bruce Westerman (R-Arkansas) and Darin LaHood the coming years as more drivers move into retirement and the (R-Illinois) in the House. demand for freight transportation increases. Over the next decade, While 49 states permit individuals to obtain a commercial it’s projected that the trucking industry will need to hire roughly driver’s license and operate large commercial vehicles before 1.1 million new drivers, or an average of nearly 110,000 per year, they turn 21, federal regulations prohibit those same drivers to keep up with demand. The federal ban on interstate commerce from crossing state lines until they turn 21. These restrictions for under-21 drivers is a major impediment to recruitment, as local bar a vital population of job seekers from interstate trucking, in-state routes are generally reserved for seniority. exacerbating the driver shortage as qualified candidates are lost to A coalition of nearly 90 companies and trade associations other industries. The DRIVE Safe Act would allow certified CDL throughout the supply chain, including manufacturing, agriculture, holders already permitted to drive intrastate the opportunity to retail and restaurants, have long supported enactment of the participate in a rigorous apprenticeship program designed to help DRIVE-Safe Act. them master interstate driving, while also promoting enhanced “The DRIVE-Safe Act comes at a time when the national safety training for emerging members of the workforce. economy is reeling from pandemic-related job losses,” said Mark “This bill has strong, bipartisan backing because it’s both S. Allen, President and CEO of the International Foodservice common sense and pro-safety,” said ATA President and CEO Distributors Association. “At the same time, the pandemic Chris Spear. “It raises the bar for training standards and safety highlighted how essential professional drivers are to our everyday technology far above what is asked of the thousands of under-21 life, increasing the demand for this specific kind of job. The drivers who are already legally driving commercial vehicles in DRIVE-Safe Act will hasten our economic recovery by providing 49 states today. The DRIVE Safe Act is not a path to allow every an opportunity for new drivers to enter the workforce while young person to drive across state lines, but it envisions creating a reinforcing a culture of safety far and above current standards.” safety-centered process for identifying, training and empowering Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | Q1

INDUSTRY AND FEDERAL NEWS

NEW RESEARCH DOCUMENTS THE REALITIES OF A NATIONAL VEHICLE MILES TRAVELED TAX

March 17 | ATRI

rlington, Virginia – The American Transportation Research Institute released a new report detailing the costs of deploying and operating a national vehicle miles traveled (VMT) tax. This study was identified as a top research priority by ATRI’s Research Advisory Committee in 2020. With a goal of understanding the opportunities and challenges of a federal system, the research first explored the technical and administrative requirements of charging every U.S. driver for miles driven. Next the costs of operating a VMT tax program were calculated, including those associated with technology, data communications and account management. It was found that replacing the federal fuel tax with a VMT tax that is assessed on 272 million private vehicles could result in collection costs of more than $20 billion annually – or 300 times higher than the federal fuel tax. The central reason for this large increase in costs is the shift in collection points – from a couple hundred fuel terminal operators to every registered motor vehicle in the U.S. “It’s clear that a VMT tax is a far more complicated and costly replacement for the fuel tax than many had anticipated,” said James Burg Trucking Company President and CEO Jim Burg. “If a system like this is going to work for everyone, many years of thoughtful planning and federal leadership

Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | Q1

are needed.” Additionally, the report found that hardware costs alone would have an initial price tag of $13.6 billion and require ongoing replacement, telecommunications costs would be approximately $13 billion annually, and account administration would be an additional $4.3 billion each year. On top of these costs, credit card transactions for electronic payment and even the shipping costs for the hardware could each cost more than $1 billion. “With policymakers preparing to lay out a vision for the future of America’s infrastructure, ATRI’s analysis could not come at a more critical time,” said ATA President and CEO Chris Spear. “Most experts agree that some sort of VMT system is a part of that future, and ATRI’s report makes clear that implementing it will take thoughtful leadership, cooperation from stakeholders and a strong plan to transition away from current funding streams.” For access to the full report please visit ATRI’s website at: https://truckingresearch.org/2021/03/16/apractical-analysis-of-a-national-vmt-tax-system/ ATRI is the trucking industry’s 501c3 not-forprofit research organization. It is engaged in critical research relating to freight transportation’s essential role in maintaining a safe, secure and efficient transportation system.

STATE NEWS HOUSE BILL PROTECTING MOTORISTS FLEEING FROM RIOTS CLEARS COMMITTEE

February 19, 2021 | Oklahoma House of Representatives

bill that would expand the definition of incitement to riot and provides protections

the motor vehicle operator was f leeing from a riot. “I believe strongly in the constitutional right to

for motorists f leeing a riot passed the Judiciary-

peaceful protest and I support fully those individuals

Criminal Committee.

who want to exercise that right,” McDugle said.

House Bill 2215, authored by Rep. Kevin

“However, when a demonstration rises to the level

McDugle, R-Broken Arrow, makes it unlawful and

of a riot, inhibiting the movement of the public and

an incitement to riot for a person to obstruct an exit

putting them in a dangerous situation, we need to

or entrance into a private business or to obstruct any

have laws in place that hold rioters accountable and

street, road, highway or thoroughfare that is used

protect the rights of our citizens to f lee from the

by the public. Additionally the bill provides that a

danger.”

motor vehicle operator who unintentionally causes

HB 2215 passed the Judiciary-Criminal

injury or death to an individual is not criminally or

Committee by a vote of 6-1 and is now eligible to be

civilly liable if the injury or death occurred while

considered by the House.

ATrE1 D E H SAteVmEberT29 - Octobe

Sep

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Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | Q1

STATE NEWS BILL TO ADDRESS DPS BACKLOGS, WAIT TIME APPROVED BY HOUSE

February 23, 2021 | Oklahoma House of Representatives

he Oklahoma House of Representatives passed legislation designed to help cut down on lengthy wait times currently occurring at the Oklahoma Dept. of Public Safety (DPS). House Bill 1059 is authored by Rep. Brad Boles, R-Marlow, and would help the Dept. of Public Safety address the significant backlog that has built up as a result of the challenges brought by COVID-19 and the implementation of Real IDs. “Lawmakers have heard from many of our constituents who are upset with the large backlog and months-long wait time at DPS offices, and I believe House Bill 1059 will be a positive step forward to help alleviate this problem,” Boles said. “These changes would make the process more efficient for Oklahomans and ease some of the burden on DPS.” The legislation authorizes local tag agencies

to issue commercial driver’s licenses renewals, replacements, change of addresses and downgrades for Class A, B and C licenses. Currently, DPS must process all of these requests. The bill would also allow tag agents to issue an ID card even if the driver’s license is expired or suspended, as long as the person requesting the ID has an existing Oklahoma driver’s license file. Currently, the person requesting the ID must have a valid unexpired license to receive an ID card from a tag agent. HB1059 would allow third party examiners to test anyone with a commercial driver’s license permit. Third-party examiners are only allowed to administer driver’s tests to their own students. The bill passed the House 91-2 and is now available to be considered in the Senate, where it is authored by Sen. Jessica Garvin, R-Duncan.

SENATE VOTES TO REINSTATE FULL SALES TAX EXEMPTION ON VEHICLES, TRAILERS

March 9, 2021 | Oklahoma Senate

KLAHOMA CITY – The full Senate voted in favor of a measure to reinstate the full sales tax exemption on motor vehicles and trailers. In 2017, faced with declining revenues due to downturns in the energy industry, the Legislature voted to remove 1.25 percent of that exemption. Senate Majority Leader Kim David presented SB 593 on the f loor. “When we originally removed part of the exemption in 2017, it was always our intention that as soon as we could, we would restore the full amount,” said David, R-Porter. “We know this has been a hardship for many Oklahomans, and with this vote, we are keeping the promise we made to our

Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | Q1

citizens.” Senate Appropriations Chair Roger Thompson, R-Okemah, is principal author of the measure. “As we work to promote Oklahoma’s economic recovery in the wake of the pandemic, this bill fully restores the sales tax exemption, helping Oklahomans better afford these large purchases,” Thompson said. “This was an important vote on behalf of the citizens of Oklahoma. Promises made, promises kept.” The measure now moves to the House of Representatives for further consideration. Majority Leader Jon Echols, R-Oklahoma City, is the principal House author of SB 593.

CARRIER SPOTLIGHT

DOLESE BROS CO.

How did it all begin? In 1902 Dolese Bros. Co was founded in Chicago, Illinois by brothers John, Henry, Peter, and William Dolese. William soon decided to leave the company in sole ownership of his three younger brothers. They evolved the business from contracting in and around Chicago to operating railroad owned ballast plants and quarries in various locations along main lines in Kansas, New Mexico, and Oklahoma. When was it founded & where are your headquarters? Prior to Oklahoma statehood in 1907, Dolese was already operating quarries in the territory. In 1910 Dolese purchased land at NW 13th and

14th in Oklahoma City to establish an office and distribution yard for crushed stone. In time this location became the site of our first ready mix concrete plant and eventually our corporate headquarters in 1943. Who was your company’s original founder? Are they still involved with the company, to what degree? Roger Dolese, son of Peter, joined the company in 1940, became president in 1944, and guided it to the highest standard for 58 years until his death in 2002. There are no Dolese descendants involved in the company any longer. The company is now led by President Mark Helm and an executive team of key managers overseen by a Board of Directors. Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | Q1

CARRIER SPOTLIGHT What do you think sets you apart from other carriers? It could be argued hiring good people (including truck drivers) is most important. What issue is the most important to your company right now? Keeping trucks running without being overregulated to continue to provide the best service within the communities who need it. What do you think the greatest benefit from being an OTA member is? We love being involved in the OTA to hear the latest issues within the legislature. Pre-covid it was nice to attend Truck Day @ the Capitol where we were physically able to be the voice of trucking, ‘pounding the pavement’, and leaving trucking fact cards with legislators. We like attending events to hear about current topics within the trucking industry that would affect us. We enjoy being involved with the Oklahoma Safety & Security Council to discuss safety related issues. For example, when everyone was transitioning to adhere with the ELD mandate it was a great opportunity to hear a roundtable discussion on what works and what could be improved within each trucking company. OTA events always provide an opportunity to connect with individuals who share the mindset of the OTA succeeding with an active membership base. What successes and failures have you experienced with your company? Our work culture does not recognize failures, only opportunities which we address individually and improve upon while celebrating successes along the way. Something new we have started recently is making TikTok style videos to improve and educate employees more about work safety.

Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | Q1

How do you make an impact on/in your community? Our company mission statement sums it up very well. We improve our communities through our products, action, and support. The communities we serve (teammates, customers, neighbors, vendors, regulators, etc.) must be positively impacted by the products we supply, the actions we take in producing them profitably, and the time, materials, and finances we are able to provide. We support several non-profits such as the United Way, Regional Food Bank, Allied Arts, and numerous junior Livestock Shows to name just a few. If you did not get involved in the trucking industry, what do you think you would be doing? Being involved in community relations and helping others. What do you envision trucking to look like in the next 5-10 years? Constantly evolving and adapting to the needs of consumer’s demand.

NEW MEMBERS Our diverse membership enables us to represent the interests of the trucking industry in Oklahoma. Together we are driving Oklahoma forward. Help welcome our new members today!

ALLIED MEMBERS

CARRIER MEMBER

C8 TRUCK & TRAILER SALES, LLC Joe Bowers PO Box 1774 Mustang, OK 73064 Email: joe@c8tnt.com Website: www.class8truckandtrailersales.com Services Provided: Truck & trailer / truck equipment / sales & service

OKLAHOMA TRUCKING AND TRANSPORT COMPANY LLC DBA FREIGHTGENIX Timothy Badke 912 Pruitt Dr Oklahoma City, OK 73170 Email: admin@freightgenix.com Website: https://freightgenix.com/ Services Provided: For hire

2021 VIRTUAL MIDWINTER CONFERENCE

he OTA moved forward with another virtual event to ensure members could receive the latest trucking industry news with our Annual Midwinter Conference on Wednesday, March 3rd. With great attendance and speaking content our members who were able to attend experienced another successful OTA event. As Adam reported on the speakers in his Chairman’s Corner article, we would like to thank all our participants, and speakers. Our Annual Silver sponsors for the event were Bruckner Truck Sales,

Great West Casualty Company, MHC Kenworth, Premier Truck Group, and Rush Truck Centers, and Annual Bronze sponsor Summit Truck Group. We would also like to recognize the following Virtual Sponsors: Drivers Legal Plan, Groendyke Transport, Hamm & Phillips Service Company, LuGreg Trucking, and T&W Tire. At the conclusion of the conference the OTA released the pre-recorded videos of the Virtual Safety Award Winners. Congratulations to all the companies and drivers! Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | Q1

SAFETY ZONE By Chris Pape

CVSA INTERNATIONAL ROADCHECK

t’s that time of year again for the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) International Roadcheck. This is an annual 72-hour event planned to kick off on May 4, lasting through May 6, 2021. CVSA-certified inspectors plan to conduct compliance enforcement and educational initiatives targeted at various elements of motor carrier, vehicle, and driver safety. This event is well known throughout the trucking industry and is not much different than normal roadside inspections. The real difference is that it has special emphasis on data collection and select areas of risk the administration places focus on based on previous studies and accident data collection. This year’s focus will be on the two areas of Hours of Service (HOS) and Lighting. 2020 Data Analysis showed these frequented driver violations: 1. Operating a CMV beyond the 11, 14 or 70-hour 8 day limit 2. No paper log book 3. Not producing an ELD operating manual (print or electronic) 4. False logs (this includes working while off duty or in the sleeper berth) Data Analysis showed these frequented vehicle violations: 1. Inoperable required lamp. (This violation accounted for 25.3% of all maintenance violations in 2020 per CVSA records)

Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | Q1

2. ABS malfunction indicator lamp for the trailer. 3. Clamp or Roto type brake out of adjustment. 4. Tire tread depth less than 2/32 in a major tread grove (non-steer tire) 5. Inoperable headlamp or turn signal lamp As we all know, each of these items are required inspection items for drivers during their pre-trip. Many of these can also be found on a quick walk around during any stop for fuel, 30-minute rest breaks and loading/unloading. It’s easy for drivers to become complacent on inspections when most of them drive the same unit every day. How many of us check the oil, brake lights, and muffler bearings on our own vehicles? Probably not many… if we were being honest. So how do we get drivers to improve this behavior? There is no short answer, but we hope to at least get your thoughts stirred on the subject. Humans are creatures of habit. It takes 21 times of completing an action, typically, before we create the habit, but we can lose the habit in just 3 events of not performing it. A few ideas may include: Regular inspection audits for your drivers, offering an incentive program for clean inspections, gamifying an inspection for drivers to locate a violation, and even the Truck Driving Championships! Be safe everyone, Chris Pape OSSC Chairman

VIRTUAL SAFETY AWARDS

ONE MILLION MILE DRIVERS

Alvin Herndon - Freymiller

Tan Marriott - Freymiller

Bret Woodring - Groendyke Transport

Wayne L. Beberness - John Christner Trucking

Michael A. Bevans - John Christner Trucking

Chaun M. Briley - John Christner Trucking

Larry E. Brooks - John Christner Trucking

Darryl Dunn - John Christner Trucking

Wayne H. Bartron Jr. - John Christner Trucking

Dale A. Macrunnel - John Christner Trucking

Frank Pimentel - John Christner Trucking

Phillip “Todd” Rightley - John Christner Trucking

Jesus Sanchez - John Christner Trucking

Don G. Schirr - John Christner Trucking

Renee Scott - John Christner Trucking

Jason Shatzer - John Christner Trucking

Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | Q1

ONE MILLION MILE DRIVERS

Shana Shatzer - John Christner Trucking

Darrell Shaw - John Christner Trucking

Mary Sifuentes - John Christner Trucking

Robert A. Stevens - John Christner Trucking

Kyle Thomas - John Christner Trucking

Michael D. Waterman - John Christner Trucking

Cindy L. Whitney - John Christner Trucking

Randy L. Whitney Jr. - John Christner Trucking

Not Pictured: Melton Truck Lines; James Condit, Ramon Evangelista, James Halvorsen, Jacob Mayo, Robert Mcintosh, Roger Miller, Guy Priess, Cesar Ramirez, Kenneth John R. Zabrisky - John Christner Trucking

Spencer.

TWO & THREE MILLION MILE DRIVERS Not Pictured: Two Million Mile Drivers, Melton Truck Lines; Matthew Thomas Jr., Michael “Ziggy” Wilson, Andrew Winans

Three Million Mile Drivers Darold Eugene Behnke - John Christner Trucking

Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | Q1

Knowledge is Power Not All Trucking Companies Are Alike Trucking is all we do. When you choose Great West Casualty Company to insure your trucking business, you are getting over 60 years of experience serving the trucking industry.

800.228.8602

gwccnet.com

Our agents work with you. We selectively choose agents with a keen focus on the trucking industry. Our agents are knowledgeable, dependable, and responsive. They understand your needs and work with you to match the right coverage and level of service for your trucking operation. Do one thing, and do it right. Our agents can guide you through the process and customize a plan to provide you the broadest protection possible. You can be confident knowing that our service begins, not ends, with the issuance of your policy. Great West Casualty Company – No matter where the road takes you, you will discover that at Great West, The Difference is Service®.

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Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | Q1

PROFESSIONAL DRIVERS

ROBERT ROSSI FTC Transportation

EDWIN A. MONTES-GUZMAN John Christner Trucking

BRIAN ZUDELL

John Christner Trucking

CRYSTAL BAKER

John Christner Trucking

BRIAN SMITH

John Christner Trucking

CARL ANDREW

United Petroleum Transports

DAVID LEE BOZARD John Christner Trucking

TAMARA SMITH

John Christner Trucking

LUIS ESTRADA

United Petroleum Transports

JACKSON BYRD

John Christner Trucking

CINDY WHITNEY

John Christner Trucking

CARL THEDERAHN

United Petroleum Transports

Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | Q1

FLEET

S A F E T Y AWA R DS IRREGULAR ROUTE - UNDER 1 MILLION MILES

IRREGULAR ROUTE - UNDER 1 MILLION MILES

1ST PLACE

IRREGULAR ROUTE – OVER 5 MILLION MILES

2ND PLACE

3RD PLACE

REGULAR ROUTE – 1-5 MILLION MILES

PETROLEUM – 1-5 MILLION MILES

1ST PLACE

2ND PLACE

MISCELLANEOUS – 1-5 MILLION MILES

MISCELLANEOUS – OVER 5 MILLION MILES

1ST PLACE

COMPLETE ENERGY SERVICES DBA HAMM & PHILLIPS

2ND PLACE

Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | Q1

2020 PROFESSIONAL DRIVER OF THE YEAR Robert Rossi with FTC Transportation was presented with the Professional Driver of the Year award for 2020. His hobbies include collecting coins and currency, and spending time with his wife Mary Ann as “she takes precedence” when he is not on the road. He was a member in the US Air Force, SPS/LE – Security Police, Law Enforcement. He’s driven 3 million miles through the span of 30 years. Photo courtesy of FTC Transportation (including cover photo).

2020 GRAND TROPHY WINNER FTC Transportation (Feed the Children Transportation) won the top honors of the Grand Champion award another year!

CDL TICKET DEFENSE.

IT IS ALL WE DO.

WE HAVE IT COVERED FOR YOU AND YOUR DRIVERS WHEN THINGS DON'T GO AS PLANNED. One ticket is all it takes to potentially ruin a truck driver's livelihood. We've successfully defended over 375,000 cases and know what it takes to WIN. When your driver hires our national law firm, they get our national law firm. We are not a referral service. Drivers Legal Plan is America's most experienced CDL Defense Law Firm and has been protecting the rights of truckers for over 30 years. driverslegalplan.com/learnmore

Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | Q1

SETTING YOUR TRUCKING COMPANY UP FOR SUCCESS ONLINE DriverReach

rating can make or break your organization’s

For today’s modern job seekers, the process of

success. Unfortunately, employers and

researching company’s looks a little different

organizations have zero control over what reviews

than it did a decade or so ago. Word of mouth

actually make it onto the site, which means that a

recommendations and opinions have been

negative review or poor rating can pop up when

replaced by online forums and social media sites

you least expect it.

where anyone can post a review or insight into your business. Online websites like LinkedIn are

This being said, there are a few proactive ways

now the first stop for any new driver looking to

that organizations can organically increase their

make sure he or she is making the right decision

Glassdoor ratings and prompt more positive

during the application process.

reviews from drivers. Here are a few do’s and don’ts to help improve your Glassdoor rating and

With so much competition for qualified drivers in the CDL trucking industry right now, a Glassdoor

Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | Q1

set your team up for success online:

Do ask your long-term drivers to

Don’t forget to respond to negative

provide input.

reviews.

Your current drivers are one of your biggest

Although it may be a little awkward, your HR

secret weapons, and there is a reason why your

or recruiting team should always respond to

long-term drivers stuck around all these years.

negative reviews. While you don’t want to come

Ask them to leave a review on Glassdoor about

off as defensive or sensitive, a calm and collected

their experience. While you can’t tell a driver

response shows that you are at least aware of the

what to say, you can be confident that your loyal

issue at hand and are taking action.

drivers will be honest and respectful in their answers.

Do rethink and restructure your hiring process if necessary.

Don’t just wait around for new reviews

If you’re receiving multiple reviews from

to come in on their own.

applicants around a certain issue like a lack of follow-up or long turnaround times, then it’s

Having no reviews is almost as bad as having

probably time to rethink your processes. Potential

negative reviews on Glassdoor because it shows

drivers look at sites like Glassdoor for a reason,

that your team doesn’t view online ratings as a

and if you haven’t addressed some of the issues

priority for applicants. Instead of sitting around

that have been called out they will notice.

and waiting for reviews to come in, proactively reach out and make online reviews part of your

If your organization is planning on hiring new

everyday driver check-in process.

drivers this year, you can be sure they’re going to look at your online reviews before making

Do check in on your profile regularly.

their decision. Get ahead of any potential issues

While you can’t control the content that is posted

by stepping back and making these changes now,

on reviews, it’s important to at least keep tabs

before it’s too late.

on what is changing. You should be posting all open positions on the platform, taking them down

You can learn more about optimizing your

when they’re filled, and monitoring reviews for

recruiting and application process for the digital

anything that needs immediate attention.

age here: driverreach.com

Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | Q1

YOU’LL LOVE US

THIS MUCH. Since 1968, TBS has been driving cash flow solutions for truck drivers. We take care of getting you paid so you can take care of your business.

SAVE MORE WITH OUR COMPETITIVE AND FLEXIBLE RATES ZERO-COST BACK OFFICE SUPPORT NO LONG-TERM COMMITMENTS WORK WITH PEOPLE YOU CAN TRUST: (866) 842-1514/ TBSFactoring.com

Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | Q1

ADVERTISING INDEX Bruckner Truck Sales............................................................................................................................... 2

Drivers Legal Plan.................................................................................................................................. 23

Environmental Management................................................................................................................... 11

Great West Casualty.............................................................................................................................. 19

MHC Kenworth....................................................................................................................................... 5

Premier Truck Group....................................................................................................... Inside Front Cover

Rush Truck Centers..................................................................................................................Back Cover

Southern Tire Mart................................................................................................................................. 20

Southwest Trailers & Equipment............................................................................................................... 8

Summit Truck Group....................................................................................................... Inside Back Cover

TBS Factoring....................................................................................................................................... 25

INTERESTED IN ADVERTISING? What better way to strategically target your market than through the Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine. • Full Color Glossy Magazine • Online Version • Ads Click to Company Page • Outreach to 4,000 • Several Pricing Options • Directly Mailed Throughout Year Contact Rebecca by email Rebeccachappell@oktrucking.org or by phone at (405) 525-9488 x 1. Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | Q1

SAVE THE DATE OKLAHOMA TRUCKING ASSOCIATION EVENTS

2021

MIDWINTER CONFERENCE & SAFETY AWARDS Wednesday, March 3 Virtual Event - Details to follow TRUCK DAY @ CAPITOL TBD APRIL BOD MEETING Thursday, April 15 Location: Virtual/OTA Office, 3909 N Lindsay Ave, Oklahoma City, OK NATMI CDS/CSS CERTIFICATION – APRIL (HYBRID EVENT) Monday – Friday, April 26 - 30 Location: Virtual & OTA Office, 3909 N Lindsay Ave, Oklahoma City, OK TMC SUPERTECH COMPETITION Friday, May 7 Location: Francis Tuttle Reno Campus, Oklahoma City, OK TRUCK DRIVING CHAMPIONSHIP Friday-Saturday, June 11-12 Location: Embassy Suites & OSU-OKC Driving Course, Oklahoma City, OK SUMMER SHOOT-OUT Tentative Date: Friday, June 25 Location: TBD NATMI CDS/CSS CERTIFICATION – AUGUST (HYBRID EVENT) Monday – Friday, August 2-6 Location: Virtual & OTA Office, 3909 N Lindsay Ave, Oklahoma City, OK FALL CLASSIC GOLF TOURNAMENT Wednesday, September 29 Location: Forest Ridge Golf Club | Broken Arrow, OK 89TH ANNUAL CONVENTION Wednesday -Friday, September 29 – October 1 BOD Meeting - Thursday, September 30 Location: River Spirit Resort - 8330 Riverside Pkwy, Tulsa, OK 74137 NATMI CDS/CSS CERTIFICATION – OCTOBER (HYBRID EVENT) Monday – Friday, October 11-15 Location: Virtual & OTA Office, 3909 N Lindsay Ave, Oklahoma City, OK FALL CLAY SHOOT Tentative Date: Friday, October 15 Location: Silver Leaf Shotgun Sports - 8513 S Douglas Blvd, Guthrie, OK 73044 FALL TECHNOLOGY WORKSHOP Wednesday, November 10 Location: Francis Tuttle Reno Campus, Oklahoma City, OK DECEMBER BOD MEETING Thursday, December 2 Location: Virtual/OTA Office, 3909 N Lindsay Ave, Oklahoma City, OK Dates are subject to change please check OTA website for updated information To learn more about our upcoming events and ways to get involved visit oktrucking.org/events, call Rebecca Chappell at 405.525.9488 x 1 or email rebeccachappell@oktrucking.org

Oklahoma Motor Carrier Magazine | Q1

LT625 SLEEPER

Configuration: 125" BBC Cab: 73" Sky-Rise Sleeper Engine: International® A26 or Cummins® X15

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The International® LT® Series is the most driver-centric truck we’ve ever delivered. It’s designed based on the input of hundreds of drivers, with a cab interior that delivers greater comfort, visibility and control over the long haul. The LT Series is the most aerodynamically efficient truck we’ve ever offered, with a choice of advanced powertrains and a host of uptime improvements that impact your bottom line mile after mile, year after year.

KEY FEATURES:  MPG Aerodynamic and Powertrain Packages available to maximize fuel efficiency  Standard Bendix® Wingman® Fusion™ Collision Mitigation System  Standard Predictive Cruise Control for greater fuel efficiency and lower operating costs  Available Eaton Endurant™ transmission delivers best in class service intervals, smooth shifting, and light weight design  Door, side glass and mirror designs improve lateral visibility and reduce neck strain  Premium gauge cluster designed with driver input is customizable with virtual gauges  The dash is designed for the driver with controls and switch placement optimized by frequency of use  LED backlit rocker switches and steering wheel buttons for superior visibility in low-light conditions  Easy-access column-mounted shifter integrated with engine braking helps keep hands on the wheel  Available automatic HVAC system for maximum driver comfort and productivity

125" BBC SET-BACK FRONT AXLE

Setting a new standard in truck dealerships. A name you can trust.

With 3 locations in Oklahoma, Rush Truck Centers is part of North America’s largest heavy- and medium-duty dealer organization with over 100 state-of-the-art truck centers in 21 states across the country. Over the years, we’ve earned a solid reputation for excellence, fairness, our positive attitude and solutions that exceed customer expectations. We offer one-stop sales and service representing the industry’s leading brands.

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Rush Truck Center – Oklahoma City 8700 West I-40 Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73128

Rush Truck Center – Tulsa 6015 S. 49th West Ave. Tulsa, OK 74107

2021 Q1 - Winter Issue

Articles inside

VIRTUAL SAFETY AWARDS

ALLIED INDUSTRY – DRIVER REACH

SAFETY ZONE

CARRIER SPOTLIGHT – DOLESE BROS CO

FROM THE CEO

STATE NEWS

INDUSTRY & FEDERAL NEWS

NATIONAL NEWS

VIRTUAL MIDWINTER CONFERENCE

CHAIRMAN’S CORNER