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From ABC Companies:
At ABC Companies, we continue to advocate for fair and balanced trade policies that strengthen the motorcoach industry.
The administration’s recent Proclamation recognizing motorcoaches as a distinct vehicle classification marks a significant step forward for fair trade and greater industry recognition.
For the first time, the motorcoach sector is being acknowledged as an essential part of the transportation landscape, separate from heavy- and medium-duty trucks governed under Section 232 of the U.S. Department of Commerce.
What This Means for Our Industry
This Proclamation represents a long-awaited distinction for the motorcoach sector. By separating motorcoaches from the broader Section 232 classification for heavy- and medium-duty trucks, it provides greater clarity and stability for operators, manufacturers, and suppliers.
For U.S. operators, this change helps prevent overlapping material tariffs that could increase costs and disrupt supply chains. It also recognizes the unique role our industry plays in sustainable, shared transportation, distinct from commercial freight operations.
For manufacturers and suppliers, the clarification supports long-term stability through more predictable trade policy and stronger international partnerships. This framework helps protect our industry from unintended impacts and establishes a foundation for continued investment and innovation.
Through ongoing advocacy, we highlighted the economic, sustainability, and community value that the motorcoach industry delivers while reinforcing the importance of maintaining strong trade relationships with trusted allies such as North Macedonia, a vital part of the global supply chain supporting American operators.
“This is a significant milestone for our entire industry,” said Jay Oakman, COO of ABC Companies. “It reflects advocacy and collaboration between manufacturers, associations, and policymakers to ensure that the motorcoach sector is properly recognized within U.S. trade policy. We are deeply grateful to all our partners across government, and industry whose commitment and shared vision helped make this possible.”...................
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From School Bus Fleet:
School Transportation Active-Threat Response Training (S.T.A.R.T.) is calling on school leaders this National School Bus Safety Week to expand the definition of bus safety to include active threat preparedness.
"Traditional safety measures — like fire drills and evacuation plans — are important, but they don't go far enough," said Jim Levine, CEO of S.T.A.R.T. "Today's threats are different, and drivers must be trained to detect early warning behaviors, stay calm under pressure, and make fast, informed decisions that protect the lives of the 25 million students they transport throughout our nation every day."
This year's campaign comes at a crucial moment: the STOP School Violence Grant — funded by the U.S. Department of Justice — is now open for applications. The grant can help cover the cost of driver safety and active-threat training, allowing districts to strengthen their preparedness without straining local budgets........................................................
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