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The future of Florida’s highways seems to be hands-free after Gov. Ron DeSantis signed the Autonomous Vehicles bill that took effect July 1. It removes what the state calls “unnecessary obstacles that hinder the development of autonomous vehicle technology and solidifies Florida’s position as a leading state for transportation innovation.”

The U.S. Department of Transportation has recorded progress with the implementation of positive train control technology, the country’s top transportation official indicated recently.

WASHINGTON — Trucks and cars equipped with automated features have the potential to enhance safety along the country’s freight and commuter corridors, facilitate the movement of freight and provide access to mobility for disabled individuals, members of the Senate Commerce Committee said recently.

The biggest refinery on the East Coast will shut down, after a massive explosion and fire crippled operations at a site that has helped fuel the region for 153 years.

Funding for highway safety programs and grants for infrastructure projects nationwide advanced in the U.S. House of Representatives on June 25.

For the second time in about four years, Congress has asked drug agencies if federal workers, including truck drivers, should be tested for fentanyl, which is used legally for pain and illegally for its high.

Last month, drug-testing firm Quest Diagnostics scientist Barry Sample had a serious warning for U.S. employers: Be on the lookout for marijuana use by your workers. It’s on the rise.

Gary Herrygers, a driver for The Boeing Co., was happily surprised when he won the 5-Axle division at this year’s Washington Truck Driving Championships. He was even happier (and more surprised) when he was announced as Grand Champion minutes later. He told Transport Topics he still is “on cloud nine.”

Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi recently said that she remains committed to advancing an infrastructure policy measure that would boost jobs. She explained that such a deal could be accomplished if President Donald Trump would only negotiate with her party. Here's your Capitol Agenda look at the week ahead for trucking on Capitol Hill.