OTA Dispatch Issue 3, 2021

10 Oregon Trucking Associations, Inc. Oregon Truck Dispatch businesses and communities with the essential items they need, no matter the circumstances. After a quick break, OTA President & CEO Jana Jarvis sat down to have a chat with ATA President & CEO Chris Spear, who talked about trucking’s post- pandemic path... although that may have been a bit premature considering the elevated state of things in Oregon right now. Still, Chris talked about trucking’s roll in the recovery effort, as well as some of the lingering challenges that are still facing the industry. Presentations Later in the day on Tuesday, ODOT Director Kris Strickler brought the latest developments on Oregon’s transportation projects and programs and discussed the future of freight mobility. Several high-ticket, attention-grabbing projects need the attention and involvement of the trucking industry—especially OTA members. Given that trucking has already paid, and will continue to pay, for these proposed projects and programs (Rose Quarter Corridor, Interstate Bridge Replacement, Tolling Programs), our industry deserves more than just a seat at the table. Tuesday evening, Congressman Cliff Bentz (R-Ontario) joined TruckPAC Leadership Circle members and other guests at an exclusive dinner to recognize top TruckPAC contributors and discuss the current political climate. Proceeds from the ticketed event will go directly back to the TruckPAC fund, which is more important than ever as our industry ramps up the fight against destructive environmental policies and much more. The third and final day of the 70th Annual OTA Convention & Exhibition started off with a panel discussion on workforce boards and the trucking industry’s need for engagement. Current OTA Chair and CEO of A & M Transport Andy Owens was joined by Mike Card, President at Combined Transport, Billy Dover with Tyree Oil and Kyle Stevens, Executive Director—Southwestern Oregon Workforce Investment Board. The panel was moderated by Heather Ficht, Executive Director—East Cascade Works. The group discussed the many tools available to trucking companies when it comes to employee recruitment and development. Another panel took the stage to talk about the changing landscape of Oregon labor laws. Temporary or permanent, new rules and regulations governing employees and employers have been fast and furious in the midst of a pandemic, high heat, and wildfires. While these will (we hope) be temporary, they will likely inform other upcoming changes. The panel of Jenny Dresler, Lobbyist—Public Affairs Council and Kyle Busse, Of Counsel—Markowitz & Herbold covered the implications of these rules. The panel was moderated by Mark Gibson, OTA Government Relations Policy Advisor. A group of Oregon legislators gathered at the convention to reflect on the lessons they learned while attempting to legislate in a virtual world during the 2021 session. Rep. Rick Lewis (R-Silverton), Rep. Jack Zika (R-Redmond) and Sen. Lew Frederick (D-Portland) were on the stage in Bend. Rep. Susan McClain (D-Hillsboro) joined via Zoom. The panel was moderated by Jordan Bice, Senior Associate with Oxley & Associates. The final presentation of this year’s event came from Jeff Eager, Attorney— EagerLaw PC. Jeff spoke about the growing role that “progressivism” is playing, not only in our politics, but in society as a whole. Progressive policies are shaping everything from business to education. Jeff discussed the difference between “liberalism” and “progressivism” and what people should know and look for. Convention & Exhibition, cont. A group of Oregon legislators gathered at the convention to reflect on the lessons they learned while attempting to legislate in a virtual world during the 2021 session.