We hope everyone is staying safe and healthy. Even while the ground shifts beneath our feet, we are continuing to watch, listen, and advocate for ways to make your jobs manageable and the road to recovery smoother for all Americans.
ATA, like the general public, is concerned about the growing spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) and the impact it will have here in Arkansas and across the U.S. The well-being and safety of our members, workforce and the public are of vital importance to us.
We will continue to monitor and assess the situation and keep you posted as we learn more that could impact you or your business. During this challenging time, we urge you to follow the tips and guidelines from the experts and let us know if there is anything we can do to assist you.
The Arkansas Trucking Association is committed to representing and supporting our membership and industry during this difficult period.
Resources
Testing available for truck drivers
Vaccination Distribution
Federal Trucking Resources
- OSHA COVID-19 Vaccine and Testing Mandate ETS Resources (posted Nov. 2021)
- Summary of Federal COVID-19 Emergency Actions & Relief
Resources for Employers
- Q&A: OSHA Emergency Regulations Requiring Vaccination or Weekly Testing (posted Nov. 2021)
- Arkansas Economic Development Commission's Resources for Businesses
- Coronavirus Emergency Loans: Small Business Guide & Checklist
- Guidance for Employers Response to Coronavirus
- A positive test? Know how to react. Get employer guidance.
April 3rd Update- Arkansas Trucking Update on Coronavirus
Read more: April 3rd Update- Arkansas Trucking Update on Coronavirus
Arkansas Trucking Association expands food options for professional truck drivers
Little Rock, AR – The Arkansas Trucking Association and Arkansas Department of Transportation will bring greater food options to truck drivers at two state rest areas during the month of April to ensure additional safe places to eat and rest for the professionals who carry essential supplies and aid to communities affected by the COVID-19 outbreak.
Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) will be issuing temporary permits to certified food truck operators to serve truck drivers at four locations in Arkansas: Eastbound and Westbound exits at Social Hill rest area on I-30 just west of Malvern and Eastbound and Westbound exits at Big Piney rest area on I-40 west of Russellville.
Read more: Arkansas Trucking Association expands food options for professional truck drivers
March 30th Update- Arkansas Trucking Update on Coronavirus
ATA is co-hosting a LIVE webinar tomorrow, March 31st at 10 AM to update members on recent FMCSA guidance and address other evolving issues of concern like workplace safety and preparedness/response plans. President of Corporate Medical Services Grady Phillips will present on FMCSA's timeline of informaton for COVID-19 responses, the Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse, the rules of random testing and more.
Register to save your spot.
Participate in research to quantify trucking impacts from COVID-19
American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) is conducting a study to understand the numerous impacts that the coronavirus, COVID-19, pandemic is having on trucking operations. By participating, you will help quantify how the trucking industry has responded during this unprecedented time. The survey link can be found by clicking here.
Trucking is essential
The movement of all freight is essential. Truck drivers have been designated as essential critical infrastructure workers by the Department of Homeland Security's Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency
Read more: March 30th Update- Arkansas Trucking Update on Coronavirus
March 31st Update - Compilation of FMCSA actions related to COVID-19 response
Scopelitis Transportation Consulting, LLC has created a compilation of FMCSA’s actions related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Because things are changing so quickly, the federal government is acting to provide relief to carriers and professional truck drivers who are serving on the front lines to deliver critical supplies to affected communities.
Read more: March 31st Update - Compilation of FMCSA actions related to COVID-19 response
March 25th Update - Participate in research to quantify trucking impacts from COVID-19
The American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) and the Owner-Operator Independent Driver Association Foundation (OOIDA Foundation) are conducting a joint research study to understand the numerous impacts that the Coronavirus pandemic is having on trucking operations. The research focuses heavily on a survey that solicits critical input from truck drivers and motor carrier staff who are encountering Covid-19 impacts such as limited shipper access, changing distribution patterns and traffic-related issues.
Read more: March 25th Update - Participate in research to quantify trucking impacts from COVID-19
March 24th Update - DOT Guidance on Drug and Alcohol Testing
Yesterday, March 23rd, the Department of Transportation issued important guidance informing employers and employees how to comply with drug and alcohol testing regulations if testing is unavailable during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Read more: March 24th Update - DOT Guidance on Drug and Alcohol Testing