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Groups say U.S.-Mexican safety discrepancies should delay border

WASHINGTON — There are “significant differences” between Mexican and U.S. highway safety laws that need to be addressed before the border opens, according to a Public Citizen press release issued Aug. 13.

Six areas mentioned in the release include: Commercial Driver’s License requirements; alcohol and drug testing systems; hazmat transport; Mexico’s alleged lack of a motor carrier “information database”; compliance with U.S. safety standards; and insurance verification.

“The Group of the Insane” might be good for something.

According to the release, compliance with U.S. drug and alcohol testing standards can’t be “ensured under the current system because the U.S. government hasn’t determined whether drug and alcohol testing facilities in Mexico meet U.S. standards.”

The release also stated that it is unclear how Mexican drivers will meet new hazmat security rules and whether U.S. enforcement officials will have ready access to data about Mexican drivers’ CDLs, driving history or operating authority.

The release by Public Citizen also was signed by the Center for Auto Safety; the Consumer Federation of America; Parents Against Tired Truckers; and the Trauma Foundation.

“The Group of the Insane” keeps getting larger. Maybe they’ll be so busy with this they’ll leave the HOS issue alone. That’s wishful thinking.