5 www.ortrucking.org Issue 3 | 2022 ADVOCATING, EDUCATING, AND PROMOTING THE TRUCKING INDUSTRY EVENTS UPCOMING EVENTS the Tolling Policy Committee, I represent 1/3 of the payers of the state road network, but the other 39 members of the committee represent a variety of advocacy groups. Some are business focused— most are not. Their constituencies want something from us—zero-emission trucks, bicycle e-commerce deliveries, delivery fees, etc. They have a vision for the industry without an understanding that we already work to be as efficient as possible with our labor, our hoursof-service, and our fuel. Sometimes the disagreement comes from a lack of understanding, but often it comes from a differing agenda. We have to take advantage of the lack of understanding in these situations and fill the obvious void with our own message. OTA is committed to developing a network of key contacts for our state elected officials, giving them direct access to someone from the industry to learn about our industry. We have to raise enough TruckPAC dollars so that those running for office want to better understand our priorities and our concerns. If you haven’t donated this year, call us and we will get your contribution in the books! And, we have to engage when key issues are moving forward and another perspective is so desperately needed. So, when you receive a Call to Action, take the time to respond to it. More voices count. And this effort is easier when the elected officials appreciate and understand business. So, we have to help get those candidates into the winner’s box. As you look at this election cycle, do three things this year. ` First, make sure you are registered to vote and that you take the time to fill out your ballot completely. Those school board positions, while important on their own, often result in legislative candidates. County seats or city commissions also often result in legislative candidates. Those judicial positions influence legal opinions that can positively or negatively impact your business. ` Secondly, do your research. Attend a campaign event or two. Listen to the candidates. When they talk about change—ask for details. Are these just talking points, or do they understand the issue and how to solve the problem? Will they just be a loud voice, or can they negotiate with opposing viewpoints to find solutions? `And lastly, prioritize the values that influence your vote. We all want to vote for someone who thinks just like we Get the latest on OTA training & events online at www.ortrucking.org/events. do—but that simply doesn’t happen very often. So, what is most important to you? Someone who understands what it will take to turn Oregon’s business environment around, or someone who is focused on education issues? These are all important values, but you might need to choose between them. Be informed, and prepared to make that decision. Hoping for big change in November!
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