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WASHINGTON — The top Republican transportation policymaker in the House of Representatives did not rule out raising the federal fuel tax to fund infrastructure projects, giving momentum to a view recently shared by President Donald Trump and endorsed by much of the freight industry.

Two weeks after a meeting with President Donald Trump, in which he is said to have endorsed an increase in fuel taxes, the leaders of the transportation policy committees will address the American Association of State Highway and Transportation officials on Feb. 28.

Where, exactly, does a federal fuel-tax increase fit in with plans for funding infrastructure? A look at the week ahead for trucking on Capitol Hill.

WASHINGTON — Crafting an infrastructure funding measure aimed at boosting the country’s economy should lead Congress’ legislative agenda this year, Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder said Feb. 23.

Executives from the commercial and passenger transportation industries will have an opportunity to recommend policy directives to federal officials during a forum the U.S. Department of Transportation will host March 1.

A recent Quinnipiac University poll found people are near evenly split on the subject of raising fuel taxes to fund infrastructure projects, with a slight majority supporting the idea.

A nationwide campaign aimed at raising awareness about human trafficking, and amplifying industrywide efforts was launched by Truckers Against Trafficking and key partners, the group announced Feb. 21.

A fiscal 2018 funding bill being negotiated is expected to provide a viable vehicle this year for advancing a meal and rest break provision for truckers which proponents argue would improve safety and efficiency.

Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao will maintain the national conversation on infrastructure funding with a pair of high-profile events next week.

The Senate committee overseeing surface transportation policy already is crafting the framework for an infrastructure bill, Sen. James Inhofe told the Washington Examiner Feb. 15, a few days after the White House outlined “principles” of a $200 billion infrastructure proposal.