HAZMAT KEEPS ON TRUCKIN

In this editorial, the author relates how the U.S. Senate recently failed to adopt a proposed amendment to a 2005 Department of Homeland Security (DHS) appropriations bill. The amendment would have provided the DHS with resources and a mandate to investigate and implement Global Positioning System (GPS)-based tracking systems on board commercial trucks carrying hazardous materials (HAZMAT). GPS-based tracking systems have been in use by trucking companies for years to track and monitor their fleets. The Defense Transportation Tracking System (DTSS) continuously monitors arms, ammunition, and explosive shipments by commercial motor carriers. The author notes that lobbying efforts by various organizations strongly influenced the Senate decision. Privacy, cost, bureaucratic burden, and inadequate preparation time were some of the reasons that were cited for rejecting the amendment.