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The Official Newsletter of Louisiana's Trucking Industry |
May 24, 2024 |
UPCOMING EVENTS |
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THIS WEEK |
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ASSOCIATION UPDATES |
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LMTA's Capitol Corner: Week 11 |
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Office Closure for Memorial Day |
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Our offices will be closed on Monday, May 27, 2024 in observance of Memorial Day. We will reopen Tuesday, May 28. We hope you have a safe and enjoyable holiday. |
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Release: Joint Statement on Legal Reform
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During the current Legislative Session, our organizations are working together to bring long overdue reforms to Louisiana’s civil justice system. We are actively supporting legislation to improve transparency, which we believe will result in more fairness, balance, and predictability in our system, while bringing Louisiana into alignment with other states. These reforms are part of Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple’s legislative package to address our worsening insurance crisis and bring much-needed relief to our families and businesses.
An important measure by Rep. McFarland repealing Louisiana’s direct action statute, HB 337, made it through the process with amendments. Rep. Melerine’s HB 423, which brings transparency to juries in the process of calculating past medical expenses, is on its way to the House for concurrence in Senate amendments. While not the exact bills we wanted as amended, they will help bring about needed change. We ask Governor Landry to sign both bills into law.
Unfortunately, other critical legislation met a different fate in the Senate Judiciary A committee, where legal reform has historically gone to die. One of these bills is Rep. Chenevert’s HB 336 creating the Litigation & Financial Disclosure Act, requiring disclosure of third parties who bankroll lawsuits with a financial interest in their outcome. Another is Rep. Melerine’s HB 24 which would require the plaintiff to have the full burden of proving causation in personal injury cases. Both bills were deferred, preventing a vote by the full Senate even after receiving overwhelming bipartisan support in the House. We appeal to Senate leadership to allow these bills to be heard in Judiciary A so that the full body may potentially debate and vote on them.
Other states like Florida and Texas have made legal reform a priority and are seeing the benefits as a result. Meanwhile, we continue to fight an uphill battle with the full force of the trial bar in effect. Every single Louisiana citizen paid a hidden “tort tax” of nearly $1000 and more than 40,500 jobs were lost in the state last year because of abuses of our legal system. To add insult to injury, Louisiana has been labeled a “Judicial Hellhole,” one of the worst civil justice climates in the U.S., for 14 years running.
The last set of meaningful reforms was enacted in 1996 – we can no longer afford to kick the proverbial can down the road by passing watered-down legislation in piecemeal fashion, such as that enacted at the onset of Covid-19 in 2020. Regardless of politics or party, support for common sense legal reforms that reduce costs passed down to consumers, improve the availability and affordability of insurance, and enhance Louisiana’s business climate should be an easy decision. Yet here we find ourselves again, scratching our heads while other states get it. The insurance crisis is just one palpable symptom of our broken system, and things will only get worse without real change. All Louisianans deserve better. We thank the three Senators on Judiciary A, and the Senators on the floor who have stood for change and improvement throughout the course of what has been a frustrating process and encourage the full body and Governor Landry to put hardworking Louisianans first by supporting these important reform measures.
Contact: Lana Venable, Louisiana Lawsuit Abuse Watch 225.328.8826 lana@llaw.org Coalition Members:
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Clean Fuels Summit June 12-13 | Discount for LMTA Members
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We are thrilled to invite you to join us for the upcoming Clean Fuels Summit, the premier alternative fuel conference and expo in the Gulf South, hosted by Louisiana Clean Fuels. This event will take place at L'Auberge Hotel in Lake Charles on June 12-13, 2024.
The summit will feature a diverse range of presentations covering all alternative fuel options, including insights from industry leaders such as Chevron REGI and updates on the Transport Project which advocates for natural gas and renewable natural gas solutions.
For an overview of the agenda, please click here, and to explore the lineup of speakers, click here.
We’re happy to share that Louisiana Clean Fuels is offering LMTA members a discounted admission. Simply use the Promo Code LMTA2024 to registering to secure your spot today.
June 12-13, 2024 |
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2024 Bill Clark Memorial Golf Tournament | July 25, 2024 |
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The 2024 Bill Clark Memorial Golf Tournament will be held Thursday, July 25 at the Azalea Course on the Lakewood Golf Course in Fairhope, AL. The Tournament will take place before the 2024 LMTA Annual Convention in Point Clear, AL, and requires additional registration.
Breakfast and lunch will be provided alongside the chance to win door prizes and compete in the $50,000 Shoot Out Competition. Prizes will also be given to the player closest to the pin and the competitor with the longest drive.
This year's event is organized by Tournament Director Tim Ordoyne and is a fundraising opportunity for the LMTA. Sponsorships are also available for the event and can be purchased online or by contacting Tim (timo@peterbiltofla.com).
CLICK HERE TO VIEW SPONSORSHIPS
The event will begin promptly at 8:00 am, Thursday, July 25 on the Azalea Course at Lakewood Golf Course. We encourage registrants to allow for travel time before the event.
Registration for this event is separate from LMTA's Annual Convention.
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CSI Litigation Psychology Course | July 12-13
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LMTA members and industry stakeholders are invited to attend a CSI Litigation Psychology Course hosted by The Mississippi and Louisiana Loggers. This informative seminar on litigation and witness training will be conducted by Bill Kanasky Jr., Ph.D., and Mansoor Khaleeluddin.
Mississippi Loggers can register by calling 601-776-5754 or emailing info@msloggers.org. Louisiana Loggers are encouraged to contact Toni McAllister at 318-729-1726 for registration.
July 12-13, 2024 | 8:00am - 12:00 pm Natchez Grand Hotel |
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Welcome Our Newest Allied Member: RTS |
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RTS is part of a family of brands in transportation services, finance and technology that provides working capital solutions like factoring, fuel discounts and more. Backed by over 35 years of experience, we are the leading provider of fuel and maintenance savings programs for trucking companies. By providing accounts receivable funding, we help our customers build the cash flow necessary to grow their companies. Our customers have access to exclusive discounts, simple software solutions, consistent freight and more.
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Open Road Magazine Spring 2024 Digital Edition is Available Now |
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Welcome to the Digital Edition of the Spring 2024 issue, featuring the new independent contractor rule, wishes of a trucking defense lawyer, what's in store for truckers in 2024, and much more.
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2024 LMTA Annual Convention: REGISTER NOW & Secure Sponsor & Exhibitor Opportunities TODAY! |
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The 2024 LMTA Annual Convention will take place at The Grand Hotel Gulf Resort & Spa in Point Clear, AL. Registration and our room block are now open. We encourage all those planning to attend to book early. This resort is in demand and usually fully books before the spring!
The link to the LMTA Room Block will only be available after completing your online registration for the Convention and will be included in your confirmation email.
The Grand Hotel Gulf Resort & Spa
SPONSORSHIP & EXHIBITOR OPPORTUNITIES We have multiple sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities available for this year's convention for all budgets. For information on sponsorships or exhibitor opportunity details, click the link below or contact the LMTA Office at (225) 928-5682. |
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Member Highlight: Thank You, Acme Truck Line, Inc! |
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It is with great pleasure that we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Acme Truck Line, Inc. for being a dedicated member of the Louisiana Motor Transport Association for 70 years!
On behalf of the Louisiana Motor Transport Association, we extend our sincerest thanks to Acme Truck Line, Inc. for their enduring support, dedication, and unwavering commitment. Your legacy within our association is a testament to the values and principles that drive our industry forward.
Thank you, Acme Truck Line, Inc. for being an integral part of the Louisiana Motor Transport Association's history and future! |
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Read Now: Guest Column on Louisiana's Litigation Laws |
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We would like to share an insightful article that sheds light on an important topic affecting our industry: Louisiana's litigation laws.
The article, "Louisiana's Litigation Laws Need Transparency," offers a compelling analysis of the current state of litigation laws in our state and the need for increased transparency. The article provides valuable insights into how these laws impact businesses, including those in the transportation sector.
We believe that staying informed about issues related to legislation and litigation is crucial for our industry's success. We encourage you to take the time to read this article and consider its implications for our work.
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Explore Exclusive Advertising Options in the LMTA Membership Directory |
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E&M Consulting, Inc. is working on producing our Membership Directory. The publication will be available in both print and digital formats. E&M is currently contacting all members about advertising opportunities available. The publication will be mailed to every member – a great opportunity to promote and give your company additional exposure.
To view the ad rates/options and sign-up online, please visit: https://reserveyourad.com/LAMTA/
If you have any questions or want to advertise, please contact an E&M sales associate at 800-572-0011 ext. 0104 or advertising@eandmsales.com. As always, your support is greatly appreciated!
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INDUSTRY UPDATES |
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Current Emergency Declarations |
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California SEO-March-Storms 5.3.24
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Texas Severe Weather Disaster Declaration April 2024 https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/emergency/texas-severe-weather-disaster-declaration-april-2024 |
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CLOSURE of Old Minden Rd. Interchange for I - 20 Rehabilitation Project |
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LOUISIANA DOTD PROJECT UPDATE:
WHAT: The I-20 on and off-ramps at LA 72 (Old Minden Road) will be closed.
WHEN: The closure will begin Wednesday, May 29, 2024 until mid-August 2024, weather permitting.
WHY: To allow the contractor to remove the existing pavement and roadway base, and replace with new base and concrete. This applies to the ramps in both directions.
The 18-wheeler prohibition signage has been supplemented with the image of a truck to enhance the messaging.
REMINDER: Large commercial motor vehicles are prohibited under Louisiana Revised Statute 32:237 due to narrow lane widths in the reconstruction section from Hamilton Road to Industrial Drive. These vehicles are required to utilize I-220 as an alternate route.
Click here to read more about the project, and access additional resources and information. |
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MS DOT Advisory - Overnight Lane Closures on I-55 in Madison County Next Week |
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The Mississippi DOTD has released the following Traffic Advisory:
From the Mississippi DOT:
WHO: The Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT)
WHAT: Temporary Overnight Lane closures.
WHEN: Work will take place overnight from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. starting Monday, May 20, through Thursday, May 23. Work is also scheduled to take place over the weekends of June 1 and June 8, beginning at 7 p.m. on Friday until 6 a.m. on Monday each weekend.
WHERE: Both I-55 bridges over U.S. 51 and the CNIC Railroad in Madison County.
WHY: Crews will be performing a hybrid polymer concrete overlay as part of ongoing bridge repair work.
HOW: During operating hours, drivers should anticipate moderate delays at peak travel times. Digital message boards are currently in place to alert drivers of the potential delays.
Stay updated at MDOTtraffic.com, download the MDOT Traffic mobile app and follow @MississippiDOT on Facebook and Twitter. |
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I-12 East at Split Will be CLOSED OVERNIGHT on Monday, May 20 |
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LA DOTD TRAFFIC ADVISORY:
WHAT: All lanes of I-12 East between the I-10/I-12 split and Essen Lane will be closed overnight and traffic will be detoured.
WHEN: The closure and detour begin at 10 p.m. Monday, May 20, and will end at 5 a.m. Tuesday, May 21.
HOW: The detour is to take I-10 East to the Essen Lane exit and Essen Lane north to the I-12 East onramp.
WHY: To allow crews to take down the old overpass as a part of the College Flyover project.
Go to www.collegeflyover.com for more details and updated information on the project.
REMINDER: Drive with caution through the work zone and be on the lookout for work crews and their equipment. |
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Louisiana State Police Offer Safety and Compliance Services for Carriers and Drivers |
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Louisiana State Police (LSP) are offering safety and compliance services for carriers and professional drivers. This is a great opportunity for truckers and their drivers to understand what LSP are looking for on the highway. LSP will come to your facility and train your crew. Please note: this is not a class. Contact Brady Johnson at brady.johnson@la.gov if you would like LSP to perform one of these services for you. Services are provided across the state and are open to fleets of all sizes. No fleet is too big or too small!
Take advantage of the following services to improve safety and compliance:
Sgt. Brady Johnson Louisiana State Police Compliance Review Division CVE Training Coordinator |
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DOTD to Begin Phase 2 of Atchafalaya Basin Bridge Safety Corridor | Announces Change in Speed Limit |
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The DOTD has released the following announcement:
Beginning March 18, 2024, DOTD will begin Phase 2 of the project, involving the installation of new speed limit signs and radar speed detection devices along I-10 in Iberville and St. Martin parishes.
The project is scheduled from Mondays through Fridays between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. There will be intermittent alternating lane closures on I-10 westbound and eastbound, potentially causing delays for drivers. The road will be open to regular traffic with a 12-foot lane restriction on oversized loads passing through the work zone during work hours.
The project is expected to be completed by June 2024, with continued monitoring of speed and crash data to assess its effectiveness. Drivers should exercise caution while driving through the construction site, and to watch for work crews and equipment.
Key Changes from Phase 2 will include:
“These signs are part of a three-phase process in response to Act 426 from the 2022 Regular Session that established the Atchafalaya Basin Bridge as a Highway Safety Corridor… The intention of the current phase 2 of the project is to have all vehicles moving at a consistent speed in order to improve reaction time and stopping distance. The end goal is reducing crashes and other incidents, especially since the bridge has narrow shoulders with little room to recover for those traveling at excess speeds.”
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DOTD Advisory - Commercial Vehicles Prohibited From Work Zone on I-20 in Bossier |
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WHO: The Louisiana Department of Transportation (LADOT)
WHAT: Commercial vehicles such as 18-wheelers are prohibited from driving through the I-20 reconstruction zone in Bossier City.
WHEN: NOW until further notice.
WHERE: All lanes of Interstate 20 from Hamilton Road to Industrial Drive in Bossier City.
WHY: The current traffic configuration for construction includes narrow bridges that are difficult for large commercial vehicles to pass through, resulting in numerous incidents.
HOW: Commercial vehicles must utilize the primary detour of I-220. Vehicles not adhering to the detour may be issued a citation under Louisiana Revised Statute 32:237.
Travelers may check www.511la.org or download the Louisiana 511 mobile app to monitor conditions in real time. |
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MEMBER PROGRAMS - Save Money |
LMTA Member Exclusive Affinity Programs
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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. |
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