OOIDA National Call to Action - All members
October 15, 2004

Dear OOIDA Member,

Today for the second day in a row, per barrel prices for oil reached $55. And as you know, diesel prices are at an all time high. No immediate relief is on the horizon in terms of lower oil prices. Prices could even go higher.

OOIDA has been talking to lawmakers all year long about the need for mandatory fuel surcharge legislation that can address these situations.

One of the primary reasons lawmakers have not been more concerned about diesel fuel prices is because many large carriers are reporting handsome profits. The profits are a direct result of tight capacity and no surplus of trucks. In essence, there really is a driver and truck shortage for now.

These carriers make money because they set their rates and their costs (if they use lease trucks) at levels that allow them profit. Shippers and brokers are never eager to pay more to get their goods moved, but they will pay what it takes.

Now is the time to make sure you insist on compensation that is high enough to keep you financially sound. The shortage will work in your favor, but you have to push for the revenue you need to offset higher fuel costs.

Lawmakers will head back to DC on November 15 for a lame-duck session of Congress. Between now and then we should be bombarding their offices with calls about fuel costs and the need for a legislative fix.

This lame-duck session is for urgent business. We think this should be part of that business. Let 'em hear from you.

For information on how to contact your senators and representatives, or if you are not sure who your lawmakers are, phone the OOIDA Membership Department, they’ll look up the information for you. The toll-free number is 1-800-444-5791. You can also visit www.congress.org, www.house.gov or www.senate.gov.

The U.S. Capitol switchboard at (202) 224-3121 will connect you to your elected officials’ office (just provide them with your zip code). If you’re home, try looking in the blue government pages in your local phone book or call local information.