MISSISSAUGA, Ont. — Truckload Carriers Association is putting its weight behind a bill expected to be introduced in the U.S. Congress which calls for legislating fuel-surcharges.

Last October, the association formed a committee to look into the idea of a mandatory fuel surcharge bill. The committee specifically reviewed the fuel surcharge legislation that was introduced by Congressman Nick Rahall, a Democrat from West Virginia, on behalf of the Owner/Operators Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA).

That bill was passed by the U.S. House of Representatives on Oct. 10.

The committee made several recommendations to modify the bill, which, according to the association, OOIDA supported.

The fuel-surcharge bill, if passed into law, would apply to the entire transportation industry–not just the trucking industry. Furthermore, the average fuel economy is set at five miles per gallon. As well, there is a
clause which demands that proof of the amount of surcharge assessed must be disclosed on request.

The association also points out that “pre-existing carrier fuel-cost adjustments set forth in contracts or agreement(s), or their renewal, are not effected.”

The legislation is expected to make it through Congress this session.