Trucking news and briefs for Friday, Sept. 6, 2024:
DEA holding marijuana rescheduling hearing in December
The Drug Enforcement Administration will hold a hearing on its proposed rescheduling of marijuana later this year.
In May, the DEA proposed to move marijuana from a Schedule I controlled substance to a Schedule III controlled substance. That proposal has raised questions from the trucking industry about how it would affect DOT drug testing of truck drivers, among other concerns.
The DEA’s hearing on the proposed rescheduling will be held Dec. 2 at 9 a.m. Eastern at the DEA Hearing Facility, 700 Army Navy Drive, Arlington, VA 22202.
[Related: DOT: Marijuana still a no-no for truck drivers, even if it's reclassified]
The purpose of the hearing, DEA said, is to gather “factual evidence and expert opinion regarding whether marijuana should be transferred to Schedule III of the list of controlled substances.”
Anyone who wishes to participate in the hearing is required to file a written notice of intention to participate for review by the DEA by 11:59 p.m. Eastern on Sept. 30. Electronic filings can be made as a PDF attachment via email to the Drug Enforcement Administration, Attn: Administrator at [email protected]. More details on how to participate can be found here.
[Related: ATA pens concern to DOT over marijuana reclassification]
Mack launches new online Truck Builder service
Mack Trucks recently launched a new digital offering that allows customers to customize their dream Mack from the ground up.
Mack’s Truck Builder tool represents an overhaul of the company’s previous online truck customization offering and improves the user experience, the company said.
"Our new Truck Builder isn't just an upgrade -- it's a complete reimagining of how customers interact with our products," said David Galbraith, Mack Trucks vice president of global brand and marketing. "We've created an immersive, user-friendly experience that brings the excitement of building a Mack truck to life in new and unprecedented ways."
The Mack Truck Builder allows users to personalize every aspect of their truck, and covers the Mack Pinnacle, Granite, Mack Anthem, Mack MD Series and the Mack LR, including MD Electric and LR Electric models.
Customers can explore a full 3D rendering of both the truck exterior and the cab interior, including various trim options. In addition, customers can customize the exterior color with an expanded palette. Users also have control over component selection across body, powertrain, axles, suspension and chassis, ensuring each truck is tailored to their specific needs. Multiple viewing angles, including studio view, 360-degree rotation and detailed hotspots, provide a thorough visualization of the customized vehicle.
In addition to a robust and detailed customization experience, Truck Builder also integrates Mack's financing options and the Mack Connect fleet performance portal into the customization process, providing customers with a comprehensive view of their potential Mack truck ownership experience. The platform showcases Mack's financing solutions, including loans, leases and insurance options, tailored to meet the specific needs of both over-the-road and vocational applications.
The Truck Builder also introduces users to Mack Connect, a unified dashboard that offers real-time performance data, location tracking, analytics and diagnostic insights
Once a build is complete, the platform seamlessly connects customers with local Mack dealers who can refine the specifications and bring the custom truck to life. The builder saves configurations, allowing users to revisit and modify their designs at their convenience.
TA raises $300K for trucking charities
TravelCenters of America has raised nearly $300,000 for St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund (SCF) and TAT, formerly Truckers Against Trafficking, in two separate fundraisers this summer, the company announced.
An annual charity golf event held in August was TA’s most successful event ever, raising nearly $200,000 that will be distributed evenly between the two non-profits.
SCF, which provides financial assistance to professional drivers out of work due to illness or injury will receive an additional $89,000 from funds collected during a register Round Up campaign held in June and July at participating TA, Petro and TA Express locations.
“Thank you to our many guests, vendor partners, franchisees and team members who have been so generous with their time and support for SCF and TAT,” said Debi Boffa, TA CEO. “These organizations have an immense impact on the trucking community, and we are committed to continuing our support of their important work.”
