Episode 86 Show Notes
Episode 86 Show Notes
A nationwide concealed carry reciprocity bill was introduced. It could help truckers to better defend themselves over the road.
Published: January 9, 2025 ByAshley
A North Carolina Representative introduced a bill that would provide nationwide reciprocity for concealed carry license holders and for residents of Constitutional Carry states. The Constitutional Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act (or H.R. 38) was introduced by U.S. Representative Richard Hudson on January 9. Hudson says that that H.R. 38 would allow people with state-issued concealed carry licenses or permits to conceal a handgun in any other state. The bill also allows residents of Constitutional Carry states to carry in other states. You can view the full text of H.R. 38 here. “Our Second Amendment right does not disappear when we cross invisible state lines, and this commonsense legislation guarantees that,” said Rep. Hudson. “The Constitutional Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act will protect law-abiding citizens’ rights to conceal carry and travel freely between states without worrying about conflicting state codes or onerous civil suits. I am proud to see such strong and widespread support, and I will not stop fighting to get this legislation signed into law.” H.R. 38 is endorsed by the NRA Institute for Legislative Action (NRA-ILA), Gun Owners of America (GOA), the U.S. Concealed Carry Association (USCCA), and the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF). Similar legislation has been introduced several times in the past few years, but the bills have never made it past the legislative hurdles to be signed into law. President-Elect Trump is expected to sign the bill into law if it is approved by Congress. For the trucking community, H.R. 38 would make it easier for drivers to concealed carry a firearm across state lines for personal protection while operating over the road. No law prohibits truck drivers from carrying guns, but many carriers do not allow it and most U.S. military bases prohibit it. The current complicated network of state concealed carry reciprocity laws can make it tough for truckers who operate interstate to legally carry a weapon for self-defense.Earlier this month, a lawsuit was filed on behalf of a pair of truckers against Minnesota state officials. The suit argues that the state is impeding on the Second Amendment rights of the truckers by refusing to honor other states’ lawfully issued firearm permits.
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WINTERS HERE EVERYONE!
A little reminder to all out on the roads this winter, be prepared, don’t just wing it!
- To prepare an 18-wheeler for winter weather, thoroughly inspect the vehicle, including tires, brakes, lights, and windshield wipers, check fluid levels like coolant and antifreeze, ensure proper tire pressure, consider using winter tires or chains, carry an emergency kit with warm clothing, food, water, and a shovel, and utilize an engine block heater to aid in cold starts.
Key points to check:
- Tires: Inspect tread depth, consider winter tires or snow chains, and ensure proper tire pressure.
- Battery: Check battery health as cold weather can drain it quickly.
- Engine: Use an engine block heater to prevent cold starts.
- Fluids: Verify coolant and antifreeze levels are adequate.
- Wipers and washer fluid: Ensure wipers are in good condition and have sufficient washer fluid.
- Lights: Check all lights are working properly.
- Brakes: Inspect brake system for proper function.
- Emergency kit: Pack essential items like warm clothes, blankets, non-perishable food, water, a flashlight, and a basic toolkit.
- Fuel additives: Consider using fuel additives to prevent fuel gelling in extreme cold.
- Air dryer: Check the air dryer to prevent water freezing in the brake lines.
- Driving practices in winter weather:
- Slow down: Adjust speed based on road conditions, especially on snow or ice.
- Increase following distance: Leave extra space between yourself and other vehicles.
- Be aware of black ice: Watch for potential icy patches, especially on bridges and shaded areas.
- Plan your route: Check weather forecasts and consider alternate routes if necessary.
- Practice safe driving techniques: Avoid sudden acceleration and braking, make gradual turns, and be extra cautious on hills.
- How to keep a semi truck warm in winter?
- Perform Bunk Heater Maintenance
- Your bunk heater is a crucial component during the winter. It helps keep your cab warm, making long drives and sleeping in your bunk in freezing temperatures more comfortable. To ensure it runs smoothly, run your bunk heater once a month throughout the summer.
ESSENTIALS TO HAVE IN YOUR TRUCK FOR WINTER
- For survival in a semi-truck, essential items include: a flashlight with extra batteries, bottled water, non-perishable food, a first aid kit, a cell phone charger, a blanket, a basic tool kit, jumper cables, a tarp, tire pressure gauge, and potentially a hand-crank radio depending on the situation.
Key points about survival items for a semi:
- Hydration and Nutrition: Ample bottled water and non-perishable food are crucial for sustaining yourself if stranded.
Lighting and Communication: A reliable flashlight with extra batteries and a charged cell phone are important for visibility and contacting help.
Medical Needs: A well-stocked first aid kit to address minor injuries.
Vehicle Maintenance: Basic tools, jumper cables, and a tire pressure gauge to handle minor vehicle issues.
Shelter and Warmth: A tarp or blanket to provide shelter in adverse weather conditions.
Other items to consider:
- Maps and compass: For navigation if you need to leave the truck
- Hand crank radio: To access emergency broadcasts if cell service is unavailable
- Duct tape: Versatile for repairs and makeshift shelters
- Garbage bags: Can be used for sanitation and emergency shelter
- Personal hygiene items: Soap and wet wipes
- Weather-appropriate clothing: Layers to adapt to changing temperatures
- ALWAYS BE PREPARED NO MATTER WHAT
- A short trip around the corner or a cross country trip coast to coast, always be prepared with the things you need to make it back safely!
- WE WISH ALL OUR DRIVERS OUT THERE A SAFE TRIP!
