Dear Mr. LaHood,

My name is Dan Little and I serve as President of Owner Operators United Inc., a nationwide drivers association with members in all 50 states. I am contacting you today to voice concern with the anticipated plans to implement Mexican Cross Border Trucking.

I understand that you have been requested by companies across the country to open the Mexican border. These companies want to use Mexican trucks in order to reduce their shipping costs and these same companies have stated plans to close or move south of the border, thereby taking thousands of American jobs with them. I am fully aware of the Mexican government law suit filed on behalf of the Mexican truckers, however, I do not believe that the loss of American jobs should be the remedy.

I understand the federal government plans to implement CSA 2010, and while I do not agree with all of the new rules, I do understand the need for safer trucks on our highways. Insurance companies and underwriters are in full support of CSA 2010 as they will gain millions of dollars in the long run.

What I don’t understand, is how the Dept of Transportation is willing to put in jeopardy 5 million jobs nationwide. That is an estimated number of Class A CDL holders in the USA and does not take into account secondary staff such as: dispatchers, mechanics, secretary’s etc… Many will lose their local jobs due to an influx of unsafe, unproven trucking companies and drivers from south of the border. As evidence, I refer you to Safer Web, which will show page after page of Mexican trucks that have violated our laws and failed to pay the fine for said violations.

Mr. Lahood, if even 1 American life is lost due to these trucks coming across the border, then I feel the price is too high. American Trucking companies are among the safest and most regulated companies in the world. Mexico does not keep accurate DOT type records on their Carriers based in Mexico.

Also as evidence, I point out the pilot program, which failed due to the fact that the Mexican trucking companies either could not or would not meet our safety and insurance requirements.

Should the cross border program go into effect, thousands of American drivers and trucking companies will be forced out, many ending in bankruptcy. The fall out will be felt throughout the entire country.

I urge you to reconsider your stand on the Mexican Cross Border Program.

I can be reached anytime at the phone or address listed.

Sincerely,

Dan Little
President Owner-Operators United Inc