U.S. Signals Alarm Over Lawlessness in Canadian Trucking

Source: Ontario Trucking Association (OTA)

As Canada’s House of Commons Standing Committee on Transport, Infrastructure and Communities (TRAN) continues its examination of the Driver Inc model, concerns are no longer confined within Canadian borders. According to the Ontario Trucking Association (OTA), the U.S. government is increasingly alarmed by unsafe and unlawful practices among some Canadian trucking fleets.

U.S. diplomats raise safety and security concerns

In comments to La Presse, U.S. diplomats monitoring the TRAN hearings expressed deep concern over driver training, forced labour, unfair competition, and potential links to criminal cross-border activity.

“Solving the tax issue does not resolve the problems related to driver training. We are concerned that these drivers endanger the safety of American citizens when operating cross-border,” the diplomats said.

CTA calls for new cross-border security screening

The Canadian Trucking Alliance (CTA) says it has warned governments for years. President and CEO Stephen Laskowski believes it is time to modernize cross-border security programs.

“After 9/11, cross-border trucking security focused on terrorism. It’s time for both governments and industry to ensure all carriers and drivers are safe, compliant, and have no criminal ties.”

Transport Canada and provincial deputy ministers are currently reviewing national truck safety frameworks, with announcements expected in early 2026.

Ontario demands decisive action

The Ontario Trucking Association says lawlessness is undermining both public safety and legitimate businesses across the province.

“We’ve called on Ontario to suspend the OINP for reform, operate weigh scales 24/7, and inspect every carrier on-site for safety compliance,” said Geoffrey Wood, OTA Senior Vice President, Policy.

“We must send a clear message to our largest trading partner: trucking is serious business.”

OTA confirms it has already presented its action plan to the Ontario government and fully supports CTA’s vision.

“It’s time to weed out the bad actors and keep highways safe and supply chains secure,” Wood concluded.