CTP expands, merges with ASET

The Coalition for Transportation Productivity (CTP), a group of more than 160 shippers and allied associations dedicated to responsibly increasing federal weight limits on Interstate highways, has announced a merger with Americans for Safe and Efficient Transportation (ASET).

Theses organizations will unite under the name CTP, bringing about 40 new shippers, carriers, and organizations into the group. CTP will continue to promote the Safe and Efficient Transportation Act (SETA), House and Senate legislation that would permit states to raise Interstate weight limits.

Like CTP, ASET is a national, broad-based coalition of shippers, motor carriers, manufacturers, and related state and national organizations committed to delivering goods safely, efficiently, and economically. Under the merger, ASET and CTP will combine their executive committees and membership, expanding CTP to more than 200 members. Veteran government relations strategist John Runyan will continue as CTP’s executive director.

SETA (HR 1799/S 3705) would permit states to set Interstate weight limits of up to 97,000 pounds for trucks equipped with six axles instead of the typical five. Without making the truck any larger, the additional axle maintains safety specifications, including stopping capability and current weight per tire. SETA would safely make the shipment of heavier cargo more efficient, as many trucks meet the current 80,000-lb federal weight limit with significant space in their rigs. Under SETA, shippers could safely utilize extra cargo space and reduce truck loads, fuel, emissions, and vehicle miles traveled for each ton of freight shipped.

Visit www.transportationproductivity.org for more information.