Charges Filed Against 11 Individuals for Tampering with Big Rig Emission System



Good morning! Today, we take a moment to remember and honor workers who have lost their lives while on the job. April 28th marks the annual observance of Worker's Memorial Day, a day to raise awareness and renew our commitment to improving workplace safety and health. As we reflect on the sacrifices made by these workers, we also acknowledge the critical role that supply chain workers play in ensuring the efficient and safe movement of goods.

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In Grand Rapids, Michigan, three companies and eleven individuals were charged with violating the Clean Air Act by disabling emissions control systems on semi-trucks. This illegal activity increases emissions and harms air quality and public health, especially considering that semi-trucks can emit large amounts of pollutants. Besides environmental concerns, disabling emission controls can lead to legal consequences, such as fines, legal penalties, and even criminal charges.

Check out today’s featured article by The Trucker to read about what these companies and individuals have done to get in trouble with the government. Find out what will happen to those who have been charged and what they will face when they go to court for criminal charges. Will there be prison time or just fines for these individuals? How many laws did disabling the emissions systems break?


Featured Article:

Multiple companies, 11 people in Michigan charged after altering big rigs’ emissions systems | The Trucker

“A total of three companies and 11 individuals have been charged with violating the Clean Air Act in a scheme to disable emissions control systems on semi-trucks.”


American Politics & Regulations 🇺🇸

Senate Reverses Biden's Anti-Smog Regulations

The U.S. Senate has voted against the President's pollution limits for big rigs, with Republicans claiming that the regulations were too aggressive. The vote of 50-49 stopped the rules that would have limited soot and smog from heavy trucks starting with models released in 2027. Pressure from the trucking industry may have been a factor, with the industry arguing that the regulations would be too costly and burdensome to comply with, and could hurt their competitiveness and ability to provide affordable transportation services.

Anti-smog rules aim to reduce air pollution caused by emissions from vehicles, industrial processes, and other sources. They typically establish limits on the number of pollutants that can be emitted into the air and require companies to reduce their emissions through the use of cleaner technologies or other methods. In the context of big rigs, anti-smog rules would likely focus on reducing emissions of pollutants such as nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, and other harmful substances released into the air by diesel-powered trucks. These rules could include requirements for the use of cleaner diesel fuels, the installation of particulate filters, and other measures aimed at reducing emissions from these vehicles. The goal of these rules would be to improve air quality and reduce the negative health impacts associated with air pollution.

Read more from Supply Chain Brain ▶


American Politics & Compliance 🇺🇸

Disney Sues Ron DeSantis

On Wednesday, Disney announced that they are taking Ron DeSantis, the Governor of Florida, to court, alleging that it is in political retaliation for their opposition last year to the law that prevented teachers from discussing LGBTQ+ issues in schools. The lawsuit argues that DeSantis violated Disney's constitutional rights and illegally voided their contracts. The Disney franchise finds itself in a culture war with the state of Florida.

Ron DeSantis is known for his conservative views on issues such as immigration, gun rights, and taxes, and has been a vocal opponent of progressive policies such as the Green New Deal. Since assuming office in 2019, DeSantis has implemented policies aimed at reducing government regulation and promoting economic growth in the state. He has also taken other controversial stances on issues such as COVID-19 restrictions, mask mandates, and vaccine requirements.

Read more from VOX ▶


Let’s Get Global 🌎

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🌏 Singapore Needs to Diversify Supply Chain, Warns UPS. UPS has said that Singapore requires stakeholder action to unlock $225 billion of trade potential, which could be lost if Singapore does not start to diversify its supply chain. Diversifying its supply chain could help Southeast Asia grow by 50% by 2030.


iLevel With You 🏡

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Get Smart 🧠

Ramp up that brain power for these advanced topics…

🦺 Lack of Supply Chain Safety Checks Found Among Major Brands. A civil society group alliance has filed a complaint against companies such as Amazon and Ikea, stating a lack of safety inspections and freedom of association. This safety deficit could lead to disaster in the upcoming years.

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📀 California Invests $30 Million in Port Data System for Improved Operations. The Governor of California has announced a $30 million investment to develop a shared data system aimed at improving the flow of goods through the San Pedro Bay ports. This initiative will also benefit the Port of Long Beach, Los Angeles, Oakland, San Diego, and Hueneme


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