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The announcement of the roster of the National Freight Advisory Committee provides a reason to be guardedly optimistic the nation is prepared to make tough decisions regarding our transportation needs.

Trucking executives are among the dozens of transportation experts who have been selected to help shape a national vision for freight movement.

The Cass Freight Index, which measures shipment activity in trucking and other transport modes, declined 0.3% in May from a year ago.

The inland Port of Tucson, Ariz., began receiving international freight by rail, the Arizona Daily Star reported.

Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood announced the members of the National Freight Advisory Committee, a diverse group of transportation professionals that will provide advice and recommendations aimed at improving the national freight transportation system.

Trucking continues to be the dominant U.S. mode of freight transportation, hauling 68.5% of freight last year, according to an American Trucking Associations report released Wednesday.

A trucking executive told a House committee Wednesday that Congress needs to address the needs of the trucking industry by dedicating real funding to addressing freight transportation needs and by improving the efficiency and productivity of the industry.

ABF Freight System said it has agreed to another extension of its contract with the Teamsters union, through May 31, as labor negotiations continue.