7th Edition, November 14th, 2025

Hello ATA Members,

Welcome to the 7th edition of From the Desk of Jamie Benson. This bi-weekly newsletter is designed to keep you informed and connected with the latest developments in Alaska’s trucking industry.



Jamie

Share the Road: A Safety Initiative for All Alaskans

The Alaska Trucking Association is proud to launch the Share the Road Program, a statewide safety initiative designed to reduce crashes involving large trucks by educating the public—children and adults alike—on how to safely interact with commercial vehicles. Inspired by the national model but tailored to Alaska’s unique roads and communities, this program brings hands-on safety demonstrations, school presentations, and community outreach events to life.

At the heart of the program are interactive experiences: participants climb into real semi-trucks to understand blind spots, engage in simulations with pedestrian and bicycle props, and receive tailored messaging for all age groups. Wrapped trailers featuring safety branding and sponsor logos will travel across Alaska, reinforcing awareness wherever they go. The initiative also highlights trucking as a high-skill, high-demand career, connecting youth with training and job opportunities.



We’re calling on member companies to support this effort through sponsorships, volunteerism, and outreach. Whether it’s funding trailer wraps, donating swag, or helping at events, your involvement will make a lasting impact. Together, we can build a culture of safety, responsibility, and respect on Alaska’s roads—while inspiring the next generation of trucking professionals.

DOT Legal Size & Weights/Bridge Load Ratings Recap November 6th

The Alaska Trucking Association hosted an outstanding meeting on November 6 focused on legal size and weight regulations and bridge load ratings. Attendance was excellent, with industry professionals engaging in detailed discussions on compliance requirements, oversized/overweight permitting, and the latest updates to Alaska’s vehicle size and weight standards. These sessions provided practical insights into axle weight limits, bridge formula calculations, and permitting processes to help carriers operate safely and efficiently.



We extend our sincere thanks to the Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities (DOT&PF) for their expertise and commitment to helping the trucking industry stay compliant. Compliance equals safety—not only for truckers but for the traveling public. For those who couldn’t attend or want to revisit the material, the full presentations are attached to this newsletter.

ATA DMV News

Effective October 16 Danielle can now perform VIN inspections. Please contact her at 907-222-5480 or Danielle@aktrucks.org to set yours up!

Upcoming FMCSA Informational Meeting

Mark your calendars! On Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at 9:00 AM, the Alaska Trucking Association will host an FMCSA Informational Meeting at our headquarters, 3443 Minnesota Drive. This session is specifically designed for motorcoach and passenger transportation businesses operating in Alaska.



FMCSA representatives will cover key compliance topics including Driver Qualification Requirements (Part 391), Hours of Service (HOS) with Alaska-specific considerations, Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) and exemptions, Drug & Alcohol Testing Programs, Clearinghouse compliance, and Minimum Insurance Requirements for for-hire passenger carriers. The session will also clarify the differences between intrastate and interstate operations in Alaska.

This is a valuable opportunity to ask questions, gain clarity on federal regulations, and connect with fellow operators and FMCSA officials. RSVP today by emailing Jamie@AKtrucks.org to reserve your spot and ensure your business stays informed and compliant.

FMCSA Informational Meeting for Motorcoach & Passenger Transportation Businesses

Date: February 18, 2026

Time: 0900-1200pm

Location: Alaska Trucking Association, 3443 Minnesota Drive.

RSVP: Jamie@AKtrucks.org

Join the Alaska Trucking Association and representatives from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) for an important informational session tailored to Alaska's motorcoach and passenger transportation industry.

Topics to be Covered:

·      Driver Qualification Requirements (Part 391)

·      Hours of Service (HOS) for passenger carriers with Alaska-specific considerations

·      Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) and exemptions

·      Drug & Alcohol Testing Programs and Clearinghouse compliance

·      Minimum Insurance Requirements for for-hire passenger carriers

·      Intrastate vs. Interstate Operations in Alaska

This is a valuable opportunity to ask questions, clarify compliance requirements, and connect with FMCSA officials and fellow operators across Alaska.

Upcoming Events

• Membership Committee meeting 12/18/2025 at ATA or teams
• Safety Management Committee meeting January 13, 2026 12-1
• TDC/Events Committee meeting January 14, 2026 12-1
• Member Appreciation event-Casino Night 2026-Registration is via email to Jamie or Danielle. Please bring a non-member who may be interested in joining ATA. See attached flyer.
• FMCSA event listed above February 18, 2026.
• Alaska on the Hill, April 15-16, Washington D.C.

Be sure to follow us on Facebook for continuous updates.

www.facebook.com/AlaskaTruckingAssociation