Ontario government seeks feedback on proposed rebates

TORONTO, ON - The Government of Ontario is seeking input on a proposed program that will provide rebates to fleets towards the purchase of alternative-fuel trucks and fuel-saving technologies. The Green Commercial Vehicle program (GCVP), a part of the Ontario Climate Change Action Plan introduced in 2016, would provide up to $170 million for electric and natural gas-powered commercial vehicles, infrastructure and temperature controlled trailer technology - as well as tractor-trailer aerodynamic devices and anti-idling devices.

Saskatchewan association continues carbon tax fight

REGINA, SK - Saskatchewan Premier Brad Wall is retiring from politics, but the Saskatchewan Trucking Association is continuing his fight against carbon pricing - and also recommending steps that should be followed if such a tax becomes a reality. "We have supported the provincial government's stance on a carbon tax since the beginning, and that has not changed," said Susan Ewart, executive director, when releasing a related white paper on Friday. "The actions the federal government is planning on taking for backstop jurisdictions are not trucking-friendly and place an unfair burden on industry. Proper policy planning will prevent those actions." According to the association, a carbon tax would create an administrative burden, give U.S. carriers operating in Canada a competitive advantage, create budgeting challenges for trucking companies, and create inequalities between different transportation modes because of exemptions for marine and aviation.