Updates from Louisiana's Transportation Industry!

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

2023 Annual Sponsor

 

LMTA Renewal Invoices Are On Their Way!

The LMTA membership renewal process is officially here, and we have started sending out your membership renewal invoices. 

 

Please be on the lookout for the invoices in your email inbox. We understand that sometimes, important emails like these can unintentionally end up in your spam folder, and we want to make sure that this doesn't happen to you.

 

To ensure that you receive your LMTA membership renewal invoice promptly, please take a moment to mark LMTA as a safe sender in your email provider settings. This simple step will help safeguard our emails from being misclassified as spam.

 

We greatly appreciate your continued support and commitment to the LMTA. Your membership is invaluable to us, and it enables us to continue serving as the leading voice of the trucking industry in Louisiana. 

 

If you have any questions or encounter any issues with your membership renewal process, please contact our office (225) 928- 5682.

 

Thank you for your attention, and we look forward to another year of collaboration and growth within our dynamic trucking community.

 

Early Voting | Nov 3-11 8:30 am-6:00 pm

Truckers: This is the most pivotal election of our lifetime for the state of Louisiana to ensure that truckers can run their businesses and still turn a profit in the future. We have an opportunity to elect a state house and state senate filled with pro-trucker legislators. That means that you need to get out and vote! Not just you, but your employees! Please make sure that everyone knows the dates of the election and who you support and why. 

Take advantage of the opportunity to VOTE EARLY. Make sure your employees know about this opportunity and where to vote. 

  • Early Voting dates: Nov 3-11. Excl. Nov 5 and 10. Times are from 8:30 am-6:00 pm. 

For more information about elections, go to the Louisiana Secretary of State’s website, https://www.sos.la.gov/ElectionsAndVoting/GetElectionInformation/Pages/default.aspx. Download the mobile app, GeauxVote. 

 

TruckPAC, the political action committee of the LMTA, sent out endorsements. 

Candidates endorsed by TruckPAC include:

Senate District 21:    Robert Allain 

House District 4:      Joy Walters 

House District 53:    Jessica Domangue 

House District 65:    Brandon Ivey 

House District 68:    Dixon McMakin 

House District 70:    Barbara Freiberg 

House District 103:  Mike Bayham 

 

To learn more about TruckPAC or to get involved, please visit www.lmta.la/advocacy/

 

Congratulations to Our 2023 ATRI Top Trucking Issues Survey Winner

We're thrilled to announce the winner of the 2023 ATRI Top Trucking Issues for Louisiana surveyDavid Harbison from Bennett Timber! David will be receiving a special reserve bottle of single barrel Blanton's.

 

Stay tuned as we'll be sharing the results of the Top Louisiana Trucking Issues for Louisiana shortly! We'd like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all who participated in the survey. Your dedication and ongoing support are greatly appreciated.

 

LMTA's 2023 Membership & Management Forum Was a Success

We are delighted to recap the success of the LMTA's 2023 Membership and Management Forum hosted last week. The event brought together key stakeholders, industry experts, and policymakers to address the pressing issues facing the trucking community in our state.

 

We want to give a big THANK YOU to our event sponsors Guillory Petroleum Transport, Frisard Companies, Triple G. Express, Berard, and Medicus Rx. We appreciate your continued support and involvement in the Louisiana Motor Transport Association. 

 

We had the privilege of hosting a phenomenal panel of experts who shared their insights and expertise to address the critical issue of insurance rates, which are among the highest in the nation for Louisiana truckers. 

 

Thank you to Lt. Wilkerson, Louisiana State Police, Jeff Gordon, Bayou Insurance, Mark Perkins, Perkins and Associates and Insurance Commissioner-elect Tim Temple, and Chris Billings of Breazeale, Sachse & Wilson for their contributions and commitment to finding effective solutions for our industry's insurance challenges.

 

We extend our appreciation to our legislator, Rodney Schamerhorn, State Representative District 24. Rep. Schamerhorn provided our members with an update on the legislative landscape and shared valuable insights into what we might expect in next year's session. It is indeed reassuring to have a member with trucking experience representing our industry in Baton Rouge. 

 

These discussions were instrumental in addressing a critical challenge in our industry, and we are actively working towards finding solutions and driving positive change.

 

As we reflect on the discussions and collaborations at the meeting, we want to express our sincere gratitude for our members' participation in this year's Membership and Management Forum. Your engagement and participation are what make such events truly impactful. 

 

Thank you for your active participation, and we look forward to enacting solutions next year to help the trucking industry!

 

Participate in the ATRI Survey on Recruiting and Retaining Women Truck Drivers

We are excited to share with you an important initiative aimed at promoting diversity and improving the trucking industry. The American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) has launched a new survey, and your participation is crucial.

 

ATRI's latest research endeavor is focused on identifying what motor carriers are doing to recruit and retain women truck drivers. This survey is part of a larger study that has been recognized as a top research priority by ATRI's Research Advisory Committee

 

Trucking fleets and industry stakeholders are invited to provide input through an online survey. This survey will help us document the following key aspects:

  • Current recruitment communication channels
  • Effective recruitment messaging
  • Initiatives aimed at creating a positive company culture

The ATRI is also seeking participants for virtual interviews that will provide deeper insights into the issues surrounding the recruitment and retention of women truck drivers.

 

Participating carriers are kindly requested to complete the online survey by Friday, November 17, 2023. Your valuable input will help make informed decisions to enhance the industry.

 

We encourage all LMTA members to take part in this important initiative and contribute to positive change within our industry.

 

Thank you for your support and dedication to improving the trucking sector.

 

CLICK HERE TO TAKE THE SURVEY NOW

 

LMTA's 2024 Membership Directory Now Available Online

We are excited to announce that the digital version of LMTA's 2024 Membership Directory is now available for your convenience. You can access this valuable resource through your Info Hub account.

 

The Membership Directory is an essential tool for staying connected with fellow members, networking, and accessing key information about our organization. With the online version, you can easily search for fellow members, company details, and contact information from the comfort of your computer or mobile device.

 

Here's how to access the 2024 Membership Directory in your Info Hub:

  1. 1. Log in to your Info Hub account using your credentials.
  2. 2. Once logged in, navigate to the " Newsroom & Resources" section.
  3. 3. You will find the 2024 Membership Directory listed there. Click on it to open and start exploring.

You can also access the directory by simply clicking on the provided link and using the password lmta_1939.

 

CLICK HERE TO EXPLORE THE MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY NOW.

 

Urgent Request For Ground Transportation Assistance

We are reaching out to you with an urgent request on behalf of Hearts 2 Serve Food Pantry, a dedicated organization that serves the local community in the St. Charles/Calcasieu Parishes of Louisiana. Hearts 2 Serve Food Pantry has been a reliable source of support, providing food, water, healthcare supplies, and more to those in need.

 

Recently, Hearts 2 Serve Food Pantry received a generous donation of 52 pallets of toilet tissue wipes. This donation will significantly enhance their ability to continue their vital work within the community. 

 

The organization is seeking donated ground transportation assistance to facilitate the pickup and delivery of these 52 pallets of toilet tissue wipes. The items are currently located in Plainfield, IN, 46168, and need to be transported to Ragley, LA, 70657. The distance and logistics involved in this task are substantial, and we believe that the collective strength and generosity of the LMTA members can make a significant impact.

 

We kindly ask for your support in providing ground transportation for this essential shipment. Your assistance in making this transportation possible would greatly benefit Hearts 2 Serve Food Pantry in their mission to serve the local community.

 

If you or your organization can offer any help, whether in the form of transportation services or by connecting us with potential partners who can, please reach out to Alexia Nobles at Alexia@ALANaid.org, at your earliest convenience. Your generosity can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who rely on Hearts 2 Serve Food Pantry's support.

 

2024 Sponsorship Opportunities 

Our annual sponsorship opportunities for 2024 are available and open today. Don’t miss out on these exclusive advertising opportunities and added benefits! 

 

GOLD - 2 Available

  • One (1) complementary room for the duration of the event at the 2023 Seafood Gala 
  • Five (5) complementary tickets to our 2023 SeafoodGala
  • One (1) couples registration to Annual Convention
  • Two (2) registrations to our TransportationConference Signage at all of LMTA annual events
  • Feature on our website, Truck Talk Weekly NewsletterLMTA app, & association’s social media

AND MORE

 

SILVER - 3 Available

  • Two (2) complementary tickets to our 2023 SeafoodGala
  • One (1) singles registration to Annual Convention
  • One (1) registration to our Transportation Conference
  • Signage at all of LMTA annual events

AND MORE

 

BRONZE - 1 Available

  • Signage at all of LMTA annual events
  • Feature on our website, Truck Talk, LMTA app, & association’s social media
  • PLUS: Exclusive Annual Partner apparel

 

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE

 

If you are interested in becoming a 2024 Annual Sponsor, please contact Executive Director Renee Amar or call the LMTA office.

 

Renee Amar

renee@lmta.la

C: (225) 287-0117

 

Louisiana Transportation Conference | January 16-17, 2024

We are thrilled to announce LMTA's 2024 Transportation Conference. Mark your calendars for January 16-17, 2024, as we gather at The Cook Hotel & Convention Center at LSU in Baton Rouge, LA, for two days of invaluable insight, networking, and opportunities. 

 

Join us at this exclusive event to engage directly with agency leaders, regulators, and influential politicians. We'll delve into a wide range of crucial topics, from infrastructure to logistics, all of which have a profound impact on the day-to-day operations and business landscape of Louisiana's transportation sector.

 

This conference offers numerous chances to expand your professional network and discover new opportunities, including exhibitor and sponsorship opportunities - which will be limited! 

 

Stay tuned for the official conference schedule with confirmed speakers, which will be released soon. 

 

Don't miss this chance to be part of a transformative event for Louisiana's transportation industry. Save the date, spread the word, and stay tuned for further updates!

 

Presenting the Digital Release of Open Road Magazine

We are excited to announce that the digital version of the latest issue of Open Road magazine is now available! We're confident that you'll find this edition to be a captivating and informative read.

Here's what you can anticipate in this issue:

Health of the Economy: Explore the state of the economy in our latest report. 
Federal Funding Targets Trucking Safety: Discover the impact of increased federal funding on Louisiana's trucking industry.
Combating Distracted and Impaired Driving: Learn valuable tips for staying safe on the road. 
ATRI's Newest Operational Costs Research: Uncover insights into spikes in equipment, wage, and total cost in trucking. 
Legal Brief: Read about Louisiana's latest legislation that grants employees unpaid leave for genetic testing and cancer screenings.

CLICK HERE TO EXPLORE THE DIGITAL EDITION NOW.

 

We appreciate your continued support and hope you enjoy reading the latest issue of Open Road magazine!

 

Lake Charles Transportation Industry Convening | Nov 14

The Louisiana Workforce Commission have partnered with the LMTA, Coastal Truck Driving School, Chamber Southwest Louisiana, and Seed Center Incubator to host a Transportation Industry Sector Convening in Lake Charles. 

 

The LMTA invites all our members and those interested in joining us. 

 

Date: Nov 14, 2023 | 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Location: Seed Center SWLA (2nd Floor)

4310 Ryan St. | Lake Charles, LA, 70605

 

To register or attend, please contact Michael Pritchard at mpritchard@lwc.la.gov or (337) 262-5546 for more information.

 

Autonomous Truck Survey 

We greatly value your input and invite you to participate in a crucial survey on the acceptance of  Autonomous Trucks in logistics, with a special focus on the Gulf Coast region. The survey will take approximately 10-minutes and can be accessed online by clicking the link below.  

 

Your feedback is essential to advancing our understanding of this emerging technology's impact on logistics in the Gulf Coast, and your involvement in this survey is highly appreciated.  

 

Once the research findings are ready, we will share with you a report summarizing key takeaways from the study. Additionally, LMTA will be acknowledged when the research findings are presented at conferences and published.  

 

CLICK HERE TO TAKE THE SURVEY

DEADLINE: OCTOBER 30, 2023

 

The survey was created by Dr. Yuanyuan Zhang and Dr. Abu Haddud, Assistant Professors from the University of Southern Mississippi. Your participation will contribute significantly to their research. 

 

Thank you for your continued support and engagement!

 

Temporary Lane Closures and Overnight Closure on I-110 in Harrison County

Temporary Lane CLOSURES and Road CLOSURE.

 

Beginning 9:00 am on Sunday, Oct. 29th, until 4:30 am on Monday, Oct. 30th.

 

The right lanes of I-110 in both directions from Rodriguez St. to the drawbridge will be closed from 9:00 am to 11:00 pm, followed by the closure of ALL lanes of I-110 in both directions between Rodriguez St. and U.S. 90 from 11:00 pm until 4:30 am.

 

Drivers are advised to find an alternate route. Motorists are advised to drive slow and be alert for roadside crews during the closure period.

I-55 MS River Bridge to Temporarily Close Between Arkansas & Tennessee Beginning Friday October 6 at 8 pm

The Interstate 55 Mississippi River Bridge will close on Friday, Oct. 6 at 8 p.m. to continue construction activities on the I-55 and Crump interchange. 

 

Activities include work on the Wisconsin Bridge, repair work on the I-55 bridge, moving concrete barrier rail and stripping. All work is weather-dependent. 

 

The bridge will reopen to all traffic on Monday, Oct. 9 at 6 a.m. 

 

The closure will include southbound lanes beginning at Bridgeport Road in Arkansas and northbound lanes beginning at South Parkway in Tennessee. Local traffic will be allowed to continue to the McLemore exit. 

 

The I-55 southbound ramp will be closed, and Crump Boulevard westbound will be closed. 

 

Traffic heading south on I-55 will need to take Interstate 40 through Memphis to Interstate 69. I-69 then connects to I-55 south of Memphis. 

 

Traffic heading north on I-55 will follow Interstate 69 to Interstate 40, then reconnect to I-55. 

 

For more details and updates click here.  

 

Current Emergency Declarations

Florida Executive Order 23-171 

  

FLORIDA HIGHWAY SAFETY AND MOTOR VEHICLES Executive Order 082623 Invest 93L 

  

Emergency Declarations, Waivers, Exemptions and Permits 

  

In preparation, the Governor of Florida has issued a State Emergency Declaration for 33 counties for Storm Idalia, expected to turn into a hurricane and possibly make landfall on Tuesday/Wednesday along Florida’s western coast.   

  • A HURRICANE WATCH has been issued for the Gulf Coast of Florida from Englewood to Indian Pass, including Tampa Bay. 

All Emergency Declarations, Waivers, Exemptions and Permits

https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/emergency-declarations

 
 

Kentucky Official Order 113350

(Suspension of Registration Requirements, and Exemption of Hours of Service and Stoppage at Weigh Stations)
https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/emergency/kentucky-official-order-113350

 
 

Vermont Emergency Declaration 

(Vermont faces the imminent likelihood of excessive rain combined with water runoff, flooding, erosion)

https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/emergency/vermont-emergency-declaration-070923-0

 

LMTA Member Exclusive Affinity Programs

The LMTA currently offers a variety of exclusive business partnerships and services to members of the association. Special member-only offers for our partners are listed below and can be found through your LMTA Info Hub under the "Resources" tab.

 

SAMBASAFETY

Since 1998 SambaSafety has been mitigating driver risk for their clients. As part of our partnership with SambaSafety, LMTA members save $1,000 on system set-up fees! 

 

APP EMBARK

App Embark specializes in creating mobile apps for companies that allow employers to organize and communicate with their employees more efficiently and effectively. As part of our partnership with App Embark, LMTA members save $500 on the cost of the build fee!  

 

LMTA INSURANCE SERVICES- MENGEL FINANCIAL GROUP

Mengel Financial Group is committed to providing the best and most affordable Voluntary Employee Benefits based on employers’ specific needs. As part of our partnership with Mengel Financial Group, LMTA members are offered group benefits at no cost!  

 

DDS TRANSPORTATION CONSULTING, LLC

DDS Transportation Consulting, LLC helps maximize the efficiency of your Transportation Management Software System. As part of our partnership with DDS Transportation Consulting, LLC, you will receive a 10% discount on your consultation fees for the first 12 months after signing a contract! All members must state that you have an LMTA referral to receive this offer.

 

 

TO LEARN MORE OR SCHEDULE A DEMO, SELECT THE LINK BELOW IN YOUR MEMBER PORTAL.

 

Please note: Since these are exclusive member only offers, you will be directed to log into your Info Hub to view the details.