FMC EXTENDS TIME TO RESPOND TO N.Y./N.J. TRUCKERS’ COMPLAINTS

FMC EXTENDS TIME TO RESPOND TO N.Y./N.J. TRUCKERS’ COMPLAINTS    The U.S. Federal Maritime Commission has granted a 45-day extension for
comments on a petition filed before the FMC by the Association of Bi-State
Motor Carriers, Inc., regarding alleged truck detentions at three marine
terminals in the New York-New Jersey port district.
   The Bi-State group’s petition, filed Nov. 18, asked the FMC to determine
whether alleged truck detentions and tariff regulations at three facilities
that are members of the New York Terminal Conference were unjust or
unreasonable practices in violation of section 10(d) (1) of the Shipping Act
of 1984. The terminals cited were American Stevedoring, Inc.; Port Newark
Container Terminal, and Universal Maritime Service Corp.
   After the FMC invited interested parties to submit comments on Bi-State
group’s petition by Dec. 20, the New York Terminal Conference of terminal
operators requested a 60-day extension, citing what the FMC called “numerous
issues raised by the petition” as well as “some personal impediments” of the
Conference’s legal counsel.
   The Bi-State group filed a reply opposing a 60-day extension, citing
alleged “congestion within the port” and noting “that the Commission needs
to give this matter its immediate attention,” the FMC said in a statement.
The Bi-State group, however, said it would not oppose a 30-day extension.
   “There appears to be a basis for extending the comment period in this
matter. Given the positions of the parties, a 45-day extension is
appropriate. Accordingly, comments are now due Feb. 3, 2003,” said Bryant L.
VanBrakle, secretary of the FMC.