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Road construction could take as much as 20% longer to complete and cost as much as 15% more if proposed changes in hours-of-service regulations for truck drivers take effect, according to Associated General Contractors of America.

The largest state trucking association has become the second carrier group to support the use of electronic on-board recorders to monitor compliance with hours of service regulations — with some caveats.

Truckload carrier J.B. Hunt Transportation estimated its costs will increase $250 million annually if the federal hours-of-service proposal is implemented.

Trucking companies have changed the way they handle waste products generated by their shops, not only giving new life to worn-out materials but also being good citizens, conscious of the environment and careful of its protection.

Trucking companies that don’t watch who they do business with internationally could be setting themselves up for stiff penalties under a new federal anti-narcotics law that took effect in December.

This afternoon's headlines: Fuel prices drop slightly nationwide, with biggest decreases in the Midwest; NHTSA opens hearing on driver distractions; Swift announces 20.6% increase in second-quarter revenues; and more.

Today's technology headlines: Road safety agency warns against using navigation devices while driving; cell industry to push phone makers to disclose radiation levels; congressional move may solve cell phone tax-area riddle; and more.

After hearing from 700 witnesses at eight public hearings, federal officials say they are skeptical about trucking’s assessment of the effect proposed changes in the hours-of-service regulation will have on the industry.

Investors in stocks of diesel engine manufacturers should worry more about declining orders rather than whether the companies can meet a 2002 federal emissions deadline, said Wall Street analysts.

A drop in shipments of van trailers caused truck trailer shipments during the first five months of 2000 to lag 1999 numbers by 3% after taking three months to draw even with the previous year’s figures.