[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 141 (Wednesday, September 21, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1671-E1672]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            HONORING NATIONAL TRUCK DRIVER APPRECIATION WEEK

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                           HON. JOHN L. MICA

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 21, 2011

  Mr. MICA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of National Truck 
Driver Appreciation Week. I want to commend America's 3.2 million 
professional truck drivers who serve our nation by expediting commerce 
and goods essential to our homes and businesses.
  One out of every fifteen people across the country are employed in 
the trucking industry, making it one of the nation's largest employers. 
The trucking industry is responsible for nearly 68 percent of the total 
U.S. freight tonnage and over 80 percent of communities rely solely on 
it for their goods and commodities. This industry is fundamental to our 
economy.
  America's truck drivers are dedicated to keeping our highways safe. 
They follow stringent safety regulations, attend frequent training 
programs and educate the motoring public to help keep our highways and 
interstates safe.
  While regulation of transportation commerce and safety is necessary, 
we need to be careful we do not over-regulate and harm such a vital 
industry. We need to allow these dedicated and hard working 
professionals to perform their jobs with the support of our government 
and without unnecessary government interference.
  This week I join my colleagues in extending a warm thank you to them 
and to their families for the sacrifices they make each and every day 
for this country.
  Today, I honor these wonderful Americans for their dedication and 
service rendered to our nation's economy and for delivering everyday 
life's essentials safely and securely.

[[Page E1672]]



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