Latest news with #USDOT


New York Post
2 days ago
- Politics
- New York Post
Transportation Secretary Duffy threatens to cut funding from ‘rogue' states and cities that impede ICE deportations
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy threatened to cut funding from 'rogue state actors' that do not cooperate with federal immigration enforcement efforts after President Trump announced a crackdown on Democrat-run big cities and other jurisdictions with so-called 'sanctuary' policies. Duffy had issued the warning after Trump declared Sunday that his team will embark upon the 'single largest Mass Deportation Program in History' with a particular emphasis on Los Angeles, Chicago, New York and other big cities. 'The USDOT [Department of Transportation] will NOT fund rogue state actors who refuse to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement,' Duffy warned on X. 'And to cities that stand by while rioters destroy transportation infrastructure — don't expect a red cent from DOT, either. Follow the law, or forfeit the funding,' the Transportation secretary added. 4 Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned states not to let their cities burn during rioting. AP 4 President Trump recently teased plans to recalibrate his administration's approach to immigration enforcement. Getty Images Trump has also repeatedly warned sanctuary states — which limit their cooperation with the feds on immigration issues — that his team was looking to withhold federal funding unless they change course. Broadly speaking, the Trump administration has threatened to cut off various types of funding from states like Maine, California and elsewhere over policy disagreements such as whether transgender athletes should be allowed to compete in women's sports. This has led to threats from some like California's Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom dangling the possibility of a federal tax boycott in retaliation. Uncle Sam provides significant resources to states for infrastructure. In 2023, the feds spent some $44.8 billion on infrastructure, including $81.5 billion worth of transfers to states. The federal government also provides emergency relief in the event of natural disasters. Over recent weeks, progressive organizations have helped organize protests across the country against the Trump administration's deportation efforts. Earlier this month, protesting over immigration enforcement in Los Angeles devolved into rioting. Trump quickly moved to federalize the California National Guard in order to contain the chaos, but was met with fierce resistance from local officials such as Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass (D). Last week, Trump signaled that he was going to dial down immigration enforcement in the service and farming sectors. On Sunday, he made clear that he intends to mount a big push in big cities. 'ICE Officers are herewith ordered, by notice of this TRUTH, to do all in their power to achieve the very important goal of delivering the single largest Mass Deportation Program in History,' the president decreed on Truth Social. 'We must expand efforts to detain and deport Illegal Aliens in America's largest Cities, such as Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York, where Millions upon Millions of Illegal Aliens reside,' he went on. 'These, and other such Cities, are the core of the Democrat Power Center, where they use Illegal Aliens to expand their Voter Base.' 4 The Trump administration is planning to ramp up its immigration enforcement efforts in big cities across the country. Michael Nigro Trump's announcement quickly prompted backlash from top Dem pols. 'His plan is clear: Incite violence and chaos in blue states, have an excuse to militarize our cities, demonize his opponents, keep breaking the law and consolidate power. It's illegal and we will not let it stand,' Newsom fumed on X. 4 Republicans have been keen on ratcheting up the pressure on sanctuary states and cities. Mattie Neretin – CNP for NY Post Last week, the GOP-led House Oversight Committee held a hearing in which lawmakers grilled Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz (D), Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker (D), and New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) over their respective states' sanctuary policies.
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Alabama moving company licensing and regulations: What you need to know
When moving to or within Alabama, it's essential to ensure you're working with a properly licensed moving company to protect your belongings and avoid potential scams. Alabama has specific regulations governing moving companies operating within state lines, and understanding these requirements can help you make informed decisions. Yes, moving companies in Alabama are required to be properly licensed. The Alabama Public Service Commission (APSC) is the state agency responsible for regulating household goods movers. Companies that transport household goods within Alabama must obtain an APSC certificate or permit to operate legally. Operating without this certificate is prohibited under state law. For U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) numbers, the requirements vary by vehicle size. According to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, purely intrastate movers using vehicles weighing less than 26,000 pounds are not required to obtain a USDOT number. However, intrastate movers using trucks over 26,000 lbs GVWR must obtain and display a USDOT number on their vehicles. To obtain an APSC Motor Carrier Certificate, moving companies must complete several steps. First, they need to submit an APSC Form 14H (Household Goods Application) and pay a $100 filing fee. The application process also requires: Providing proof of insurance Form E (liability) and Form H (cargo) must be filed by the mover's insurer with APSC per Alabama insurance requirements Registering as a business with the Alabama Secretary of State if operating as an LLC, Corporation, or out-of-state entity Submitting a tariff that outlines their rates to APSC Demonstrating compliance with APSC safety regulations and financial stability Before hiring a moving company, you should verify that they have the proper operating authority. Consumers can check a moving company's credentials using the APSC Motor Carrier Search Tool. This online database allows you to search for companies and confirm whether they hold valid operating authority in Alabama. When researching potential movers, also ask to see their APSC certificate number and any other relevant licensing information. Legitimate companies will be happy to provide this information and should display their APSC certificate number on contracts and marketing materials. Recommended reading from Yahoo: Do you need moving insurance? If you encounter problems with a moving company in Alabama, you have several options for filing complaints. The Alabama Public Service Commission handles complaints related to movers violating state regulations. For issues involving fraud or deceptive business practices, you can contact the Alabama Attorney General's Consumer Protection Office. For additional guidance on choosing a licensed mover and avoiding scams, the FMCSA Protect Your Move website provides valuable resources and information. Working with a properly licensed moving company is your best protection against moving scams and service problems. Always verify a company's licensing status before signing a contract, obtain written estimates from multiple companies and understand the insurance coverage provided for your belongings during the move. By taking these precautions, you can help ensure a smooth moving experience in the Heart of Dixie. See all Yahoo Local moving articles Phoenix Tucson Bakersfield Freemont Los Angeles San Diego San Jose San Francisco Denver Boca Raton Fort Lauderdale Fort Myers Gainesville Jacksonville Melbourne Miami Naples Ocala Orlando Sarasota St. Petersburg Tallahassee Tampa West Palm Beach Chicago Boston Las Vegas Albany Binghamton The Bronx Brooklyn Buffalo Clifton Park Hamburg Ithaca Kingston Manhattan New Rochelle Poughkeepsie Queens Rochester Syracuse Portland Pittsburgh Philadelphia Greenville Nashville Arlington Austin Dallas Fort Worth Houston San Antonio The Woodlands Virginia Beach Seattle
Yahoo
04-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Trucking company owner indicted in $2M credit card scam
A San Diego-area owner-operator was arraigned on Tuesday in an 18-count indictment charging him with bank fraud, money laundering and aggravated identity theft. Hasan Korkmaz, who owns San Diego Logistics Group Inc. based in Santee, California, carried out a credit card 'bust-out' scam in which seemingly legitimate credit card accounts are established and then are 'busted out' by maxing out the credit line with no intention of paying the balance, according to the U.S. attorney's office representing the Southern District of California. Prosecutors allege that Korkmaz obtained names, dates of birth, Social Security numbers and other personal information linked to real people and used the information to apply for numerous credit card accounts. After opening the fraudulent accounts, he allegedly used the cards to charge various businesses, including his own trucking company, with some charges as high as $18,500 for a single transaction.'To perpetuate the scheme, Korkmaz also made fraudulent payments, with checks drawn on accounts with insufficient funds or drawn on non-existent accounts, to the credit card accounts, thereby temporarily restoring the available credit limits,' according to the attorney's office. 'Korkmaz would then incur additional charges on the credit card accounts at or near the maximum credit limits for the accounts.' Korkmaz is also alleged to have laundered the bank fraud proceeds, including by transferring them to a Turkish bank account he controlled, causing two banks to lose $2.1 million. According to Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration registration data, San Diego Logistics Group specializes in hauling refrigerated meat and fresh produce with three tractors and five drivers. It is listed as having an 'inactive' USDOT convicted, Korkmaz faces maximum sentences of 30 years in prison and a $1 million fine for bank fraud, 20 years and $500,000 for money laundering, and a mandatory minimum sentence of two years in prison for aggravated identity theft. South Florida trucking company owner gets long prison term for Ponzi scheme California freight forwarder charged with smuggling billions in goods California trucking company owner pleads guilty to PPP fraud Click for more FreightWaves articles by John Gallagher. The post Trucking company owner indicted in $2M credit card scam appeared first on FreightWaves.


Time of India
04-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
California High-Speed Rail project now has a $4 billion Trump roadblock
California's High-Speed Rail project faces uncertainty as the Trump administration threatens to revoke nearly $4 billion in federal grants due to a $7 billion funding shortfall and missed deadlines. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads The Trump administration has raised serious concerns about the future of California's ambitious High-Speed Rail project, pointing to a $7 billion funding shortfall that threatens the completion of a key section. On Wednesday, the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) warned it may revoke nearly $4 billion in federal grants unless the state can address the a 315-page report, the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) cited missed deadlines, underestimated costs, and questionable ridership projections. Central to the report is the state's failure to secure the additional $7 billion needed to finish the initial 171-mile segment between Merced and USDOT has given California until mid-July to respond before deciding whether to terminate the California High-Speed Rail Authority, which is overseeing the project, continues construction on the Central Valley section—intended to operate at speeds up to 220 mph (350 km/h) and begin passenger service by of now, more than 60 miles of guideway have been completed, and 54 of the 93 required structures are finished, with over 30 more under construction across Madera, Fresno, Kings, and Tulare the funding concerns, the project has delivered significant economic impact. Since breaking ground, it has generated over 15,000 well-paying construction jobs, the majority of which have gone to Central Valley residents. Around 1,600 workers are deployed to construction sites each Authority has also secured full environmental clearance for 463 miles of track stretching from the Bay Area to downtown Los another high-speed rail project—Brightline West—is underway. This privately funded route will connect Las Vegas to Southern California with trains reaching speeds of 200 mph (320 km/h). It is slated to begin operations in 2028. Both Brightline West and California's state-run rail line recently received about $3 billion each in federal California races to keep its high-speed rail dreams on track, the coming weeks may determine whether it can resolve its financial and operational hurdles or risk losing crucial federal support.
Yahoo
02-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
USDOT offering $5.4 billion for bridge funding, but strikes diversity requirements
By David Shepardson (Reuters) -The U.S. government will make available $5.4 billion in grant funding for building, replacing or repairing bridges across the country under a 2021 infrastructure law, but is striking diversity requirements, the U.S. Department of Transportation said on Monday. USDOT said it was removing climate change, environmental justice and diversity, equity and inclusion from grant application requirements for bridges from the funding approved in 2021 under a $1-trillion infrastructure law signed by former President Joe Biden. Last week, USDOT said separately it would end consideration of race or gender when awarding billions of dollars in federal highway and transit project funding set aside for disadvantaged small businesses. In April, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said states could lose transportation funding over a failure to cooperate on federal immigration enforcement efforts or for maintaining DEI programs. Trump issued an executive order seeking to ban DEI programs in January. Under Biden, bridge grant applicants had to address climate change impacts and detail how proposed projects reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the transportation sector and lifecycle emissions from the project materials, USDOT said on Monday. Another requirement called for addressing how projects would create good-paying jobs with the free choice to join a union and how projects would promote local inclusive economic development and entrepreneurship such as Disadvantaged Business Enterprises, minority-owned business or women-owned business programs. A Kentucky judge ruled in September that a federal program enacted in 1983 - the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise program - violated the U.S. Constitution's equal protection guarantees. The program treats businesses owned by racial minorities and women as presumptively disadvantaged, making them eligible for funding. The program was reauthorized in 2021 through the infrastructure law that set aside more than $37 billion for that purpose.