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TRAA

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  1. Thank you to everyone who attended TRAA's Legislative Action Workshop & Hill Day last week! Together towers from 24 states completed 103 constituent meetings and made real progress towards garnering support for (a) our position that towing does not belong in the FTC’s “Junk Fees” Rule, (b) support for the House National Move Over Law Resolution (H.Res.152), (c) advocating against bigger truck policies, (d) educating members on EV issues, and more. We also met with Larry Minor, FMCSA’s Associate Administrator for Policy and Program Development to discuss the administration’s position on the “Junk Fee” Rule and other transportation regulations currently under consideration. Plus, the group collectively met with another 8 Members of Congress and professional staff on key committees for our industry. Your membership and support in TRAA make this good work possible on behalf of the industry. Learn More: https://myemail.constantcontact.com/Working-Hard-at-Our-Nation-s-Capital.html
  2. Too little lighting is dangerous and so is too much as excess lighting can blind and confuse oncoming traffic. Resource: https://www.respondersafety.com/resources/vehicle-emergency-lighting-and-markings/
  3. An Event Roll Call has been added now. Register prior to 12/31/23 for TRAA Hill Day Discount. https://www.towforce.net/topic/26437-traa’s-legislative-action-workshop-hill-day-roll-call-march-5-7-2023/
  4. TRAA’s Legislative Action Workshop & Hill Day is the industry's only national hill day! This is your opportunity to meet with Members of Congress and make real, substantial change for the whole community. No prior experience is required! New for 2024, the host hotel will be the brand-new Royal Sonesta Washington DC, Capitol Hill! Steps from the U.S. Capitol Building, Senate office buildings, Union Station, National Mall, and local restaurants, this luxury hotel is larger with more amenities. Got a question? Check out our FAQ Page! Early Bird Pricing (registrations received by 12/31/2023) Non-Member: $699 TRAA Member: $499 ($200 Member Discount) Regular Pricing (registrations received on or after 1/1/2024) Non-Member: $899 TRAA Member: $699 ($200 Member Discount) REGISTER NOW! https://traaonline.com/hillday Roll Call from TowForce FB Group: Brian Riker - Herbert Bartemy - Chad Yarbrough - Mike Wildman - Tom Tedford - Dunne Hagen - Richard Branch - Toby Watson - Ephraim Anthony Risten - John Patrick May - Gay Rochester - Joanne Blyton - Sumser Towing - Ron Parrish
  5. Thank you to INA Towing Network for sponsoring a group dinner and the attendees challenge coins during TRAA's Legislative Action Workshop & Hill Day 2024!
  6. Thank you to INA Towing Network for sponsoring a group dinner and the attendees challenge coins during TRAA's Legislative Action Workshop & Hill Day 2024!
  7. It is with great sadness that we share the recent passing of Harriet S. Cooley. Harriet was with TRAA for twenty years, serving first as the Director of Certification and later as the association’s Executive Director. She was inducted into the International Towing & Recovery Hall of Fame & Museum in 2007 and retired from TRAA in 2013. https://internationaltowingmuseum.org/hall_of_fame/harriet-cooley/ The family has yet to release a public obituary, or any service arrangement details, but we’ll share if they do. Our condolences to her many family and friends within the industry.
  8. All 50 States and D.C. have Move Over laws requiring drivers to slow down and move over when they are near stationary response vehicles, but not all Americans know they exist. Know your state's law. The National Move Over Law Resolution (H.Res.1463 formerly H.Res.1052) passed 11/15/22 in the U.S. House of Representatives. The resolution was originally introduced by Congressman Jim McGovern in April, he shares “as we recognize National Crash Responder Safety Week, and head into the Holiday Season. We are proud to champion this effort in the House of Representatives and pass this resolution to raise public awareness about the importance of “Slow Down, Move Over” laws.” The resolution supports the goals and ideals of Move Over Laws and urges the promotion and adherence to State Move Over laws. Learn More: https://myemail.constantcontact.com/BREAKING-NEWS--National-Move-Over-Law-Resolution-Passes-in-the-House.html?soid=1104363257984&aid=9LBtucPkT4g
  9. TRAA is proud to unveil its brand-new website and association management system (AMS)! As a 501(c)(6) nonprofit membership organization, TRAA’s new website has been designed to serve its membership by allowing members to easily update their company profile, billing information, online directory listing, etc. and access exclusive members-only resources. Plus, an enhanced online directory search function will roll out in the coming weeks to help motorists find member companies in their area. We hope you’ll take a minute to explore the new site at https://traaonline.com/
  10. Towing and road service personnel are susceptible to overexertion and heat-related illnesses. Asphalt absorbs 95% of the sun’s rays and asphalt temperatures can easily be 30° F or higher than the surrounding air temperature. Operators should drink plenty of water or liquids high in electrolytes such as sports drinks or coconut water. Operators should also get out of the heat and sun as much as possible especially on extremely hot days to avoid heatstroke, dehydration, and heat exhaustion. Share to spread the word!
  11. TIMs training – The Talking TIM free webinar series highlights successful programs, identifies best practices, and showcases technology that advances the profession. Next one is coming up Wednesday, July 27, from 1:30 pm – 3:00 pm EDT. ---- REGISTER: https://transportationops.org/event/talking-tim-july-2022
  12. It’s the third and final day of TRAA’s 4th annual Legislative Action Workshop & Hill Day in DC! We’re meeting with Congressman Jim McGovern, Chairman of the House Committee on Rules and sponsor of the National Move Over Law Day Resolution (H.Res.1052), and Christian Bell, Professional Staff on the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee. Thank you to everyone who attended this year, it was a great group and we made huge progress on promoting the industry’s legislative priorities
  13. TRAA 4th annual Legislative Action Workshop & Hill Daykicks off in DC! Our primary mission this year will be to secure support and bipartisan co-signers for the National Move Over Law Day Resolution (House and Senate versions). The resolution is part of TRAA's two-pronged approach to reducing roadside fatalities (a) by raising public awareness of the issue and (b) by promoting policies at the federal level that help reduce incidents. In addition to discussing this significant issue, attendees will also meet with Members of Congress and staff who play a vital role in crafting policy that impacts the towing industry. Today we’ll be meeting with Senator Ben Cardin, Chair of the Senate Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee, Senator Tammy Duckworth, U.S. Committee on Commerce, Science & Transportation, Congressman Chris Pappas, House Committee on Transportation & Infrastructure, Larry Minor, Associate Administrator for Policy at Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, and Paul Wasik, U.S. Senate Professional Staff for Transportation Policy. It’s “Hill Day” and towers from across the country will be meeting with their Members of Congress to make real, substantial change. With over 35 constituent meetings scheduled, we are educating Members and staffers on the industry and asking for their support on the National Move Over Law Day Resolution (H.Res.1052). These meetings are critical to securing co-sponsors and votes. Plus, the group will also be meeting with another member of the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee, Congressman Mark Desaulnier. It’s going to be a busy day moving the industry forward!
  14. TRAA Opposing FMCSA Proposed Rulemaking Requiring Speed Limiters On May 4th, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) announced a proposed rulemaking on Speed Limiting Devices [Docket No. FMCSA–2022–0004]. The proposal would require that "(CMVs) in interstate commerce with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) or gross vehicle weight (GVW) of 11,794 kilograms or more (26,001 pounds or more), whichever is greater, that are equipped with an electronic engine control unit (ECU) capable of governing the maximum speed be required to limit the CMV to a speed to be determined by the rulemaking and to maintain that ECU setting for the service life of the vehicle." A speed has not been determined, but previous proposals mentioned rates of 60, 65 or 68 miles per hour. TRAA understands the intention of FMCSA, NHTSA, and other groups to improve roadway safety and reduce roadside fatalities. However, TRAA opposes the proposal based on our belief that CMV speed limiters would in fact have the opposite effect. While there are several problems with the proposal, our primary concerns are the following: - Increased Risk of Traffic Incidents: Speed limiters prevent operators from changing speeds as necessary to move with traffic flow. Variations in speed increase the rate of interactions between vehicles which in turn increases the rate of incidents. Operators must be able to slow down or speed up based on the traffic conditions, location, and environment to limit interactions with other vehicles. - Increased Danger to Responders: Commercial vehicle operators must be able to move with the flow of traffic and change lanes as needed. Any efforts that prevent an operator's ability to do so increases the risk of death or injury to any responder or motorist along the roadside. Nothing should prevent an operator's ability to Move Over. TRAA has implemented a two-prong strategy for opposing this proposed rulemaking. 1. Comment of Opposition: Firstly, we are in the process of submitting a comment of opposition on the official register. We are asking our affiliate state associations to sign-on and submit coordinated comments. Please email the office for more information. 2. TRAA Joins Coalition: Secondly, TRAA is again joining forces with other organizations that are also in opposition to the proposal including OOIDA and others. While we don't agree on everything, we do agree that this proposal is bad news and TRAA's participation on similar coalitions for the insurance mandate, Dr. Weil's nomination, etc. have yielded the desired outcomes. We'll keep the membership posted on the coalition's progress.
  15. TRAA’s 2022 Legislative Action Workshop & Hill Day – RESCHEDULE June 14-16, 2022 TRAA’s Legislative Action Workshop 2022- Attendee Registration Registration includes access to all event activities/meetings, three meals, constituent meetings with members of Congress scheduled by TRAA’s lobbying firm (TSG), and a follow-up meeting one month post event. The event registration is only $399/attendee. https://traaonline.com/events/legislativeactionworkshop/ Tentative Event Schedule Tuesday, June 14, 2022 12 – 2 pm Legislative Workshop (Part 1) 2 – 5 pm Constituent Meetings with Members of Congress (meetings facilitated by TSG’s federal lobbying team) 5 – 6 pm Nightly Hosted Wine Hour (Kimpton Guests Only) Group Dinner at Local DC Restaurant (included in registration) Wednesday, June 15, 2022 9 am – 12:30 pm Constituent Meetings with Members of Congress (meetings facilitated by TRAA’s federal lobbying team) 12:30 – 1 pm Lunch (included in registration) 1 – 3 pm Legislative Open House with Members of Congress 5 – 6 pm Nightly Hosted Wine Hour (Kimpton Guests Only) Group Dinner at Local DC Restaurant (included in registration) Thursday, June 16, 2022 9 – 10 am Breakfast (included in registration) 10 am – 12 pm Legislative Workshop (Part 2) *Schedule subject to change without notice Cancellation Policy Registration fee refunded at 100% through May 8, 2022. Cancellations on or after May 9, 2022 forfeit the event registration fee.
  16. DC has implemented a temporary vaccine mandate and the Capitol buildings are closed to visitors due to the pandemic. As a result, TRAA has made the difficult decision to reschedule our 4th annual Legislative Action Workshop & Hill Day to Tuesday, June 14th to Thursday, June 16, 2022. Located at the prestigious Kimpton George Hotel on Capitol Hill! As the industry’s only national “hill day”, our goal is to advance the association’s legislative goals specifically: national move over law provisions weights and measure amendments (23 U.S.C. 127) combating federal increases to insurance requirements (Moving Forward Act H.R. 2) under 21 driver regulations (FMCSA 2018-0346-1124)
  17. Decrease your risk of getting struck by traffic and always use the non-traffic side controls on wreckers and carriers whenever possible.
  18. TRAA’s Legislative Action Workshop in Washington, DC TRAA’s 3rd annual Legislative Action Workshop is set for Tuesday, March 9 to Thursday, March 11, 2021. Register now to reserve your spot! March 9-11, 2021 This event is the towing and recovery industry’s only national “hill day”. Each year we focus on particular topics that align with TRAA’s legislative priorities. The legislation we worked on in 2020 included a federal move over law, supporting the Drive SAFE Act, and critical weights and measures changes. During the event, we were able to secure co-signers and essential support for bills that will help all towers be safer and operate more efficiency. This is your opportunity to meet with members of congress and make real, substantial change for the whole towing community. So, save the date because registration opens in June! Event Registration The workshop is open to all current TRAA members. All attendees must be registered to participate. Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate any additional guests or “plus-ones”. If you need to register an additional guest to attend any of the event, please register them using the link below. The deadline for all registrations is February 5, 2021. The event registration is only $399/attendee and includes all meetings and events indicated in the event schedule below. Event reservation form Event Location NEW location for 2021! The 2021 and 2022 events are taking place at the sought after Kimpton George Hotel on Capitol Hill steps from the U.S. Capitol Building, representative offices, Union Station, the National Mall and more. The discounted room rate is only $355/night plus applicable taxes (savings of ~$200/night off rack rate). We only have a limited number of discounted rooms, book your room via the event reservation form now. Tentative Event Schedule Attendees must be registered to participate in any scheduled event including all meetings and group dinners. Tuesday, March 9, 2021 2 – 4 pm Legislative Workshop (Part 1): review the year’s legislative agenda, discuss talking points, prepare for meetings with individual members of congress, etc. 5 – 6 pm Nightly Hosted Wine Hour (Kimpton Guests Only) Group Dinner at Art & Soul Restaurant (included in registration) Wednesday, March 10, 2021 (Hill Day) 9 am – 12:30 pm Meetings with Your Members of Congress* (*Complimentary shuttle service to/from the Capitol Building is available for Kimpton guests, if needed) 12:30 – 1 pm Lunch (included in registration) 1 – 3 pm Legislative Open House with Members of Congress 5 – 6 pm Nightly Hosted Wine Hour (Kimpton Guests Only) Group Dinner at the Monocle Restaurant (included in registration) Thursday, March 11, 2021 9 – 10 am Plated Breakfast (included in registration) 10 am – 12 pm Legislative Workshop (Part 2): Hill Day recap, presentation by TSG, attendee sharing and legislative progress updates *Schedule subject to change without notice Cancellation Policy Registration fee refunded at 100% through January 31, 2021. Cancellations on or after February 1, 2021 forfeit the event registration fee. Note, hotel room reservations adhere to the hotel’s own cancellation policy. https://traaonline.com/events/legislativeactionworkshop/ Will you be attending our annual event this year?
  19. 1997-1999 Stacey Tucker of Washington was WTRAA’s president. Some of Stacey’s board consisted of Rhonda Bishop, Belinda Harris and Carol Boelter. She completed her education with a Master’s Degree in Counseling and working in the mental health field. In 1994 Stacey became the third-generation owner of Chico Towing. She founded “Essential Solutions for the Business”, a consulting business and “Sun Select Window Tinting” a business she owns with her brother. Besides doing some freelance writing for a number of towing industry publications she has been the Washington Representative for TRAA for many years, past president for the Washington Towing Association, and she has been warded many local awards and recognitions including the 1998 YWCA Woman of Achievement, 2005 Kitsap Business Journal “40 under Forty” where she was recognized as an outstanding your business and community leader. Stacey is very instrumental in the scholarship foundation and is currently Chairperson for the WTRAA Scholarship Committee. She is also very involved in many local organizations around the Seattle area, including the Harrison Hospital Foundation, Checkered Flag Club (promoting a NASCAR track in Kitsap County), and Project Family and is a Paul Harris Fellow in Rotary International. Stacey has 3 children- JR, Brady and Sarah. In her spare time she enjoys traveling with her family, capming and participating in her children’s sport activities. http://www.wtraa.org/past-presidents-of-wtraa/
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