The opposition to allowing Mexican trucks to travel U.S. highways come January got a big shot in the arm yesterday from safety-conscious lawmakers.Despite the veto threats from the White House and a filibuster effort from key GOP leaders, the Senate voted 70-30 to limit debate on further reductions of border safety proposals.

"It is pretty clear that there are certain members in the Senate who appear to have more allegiance to this treaty that went into effect long ago, a treaty that transportation has almost nothing to do with - than with the safety of every person who uses the U.S. highway," said OOIDA's Todd Spencer.

Previously the Senate Transportation Appropriations Committee had adopted provisions that would have addressed most of the safety and related issues involved with trucks from Mexico operating throughout the U.S. That vote was bipartisan and unanimous. The amendment was authored by Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA) and Richard Shelby (R-AL).

On the other side of the debate, Sen. John McCain (R-AZ) and Sen. Phil Gramm (R-TX) led the effort toward opening the border, even if it meant weaker restrictions for the Mexican trucks. The debate went on and on. Sixty votes were required to stop the GOP filibuster. Yesterday, all 50 Democrats, one independent and 19 Republicans voted to put a stop to the tactics aimed at watering down the tougher restrictions.

The Senate will resume consideration of the Transportation Appropriations bill today. Further debate on the border issues is expected.

Senate Majority Leader Tom Daschle, has threatened to keep the Senate in session around the clock over the weekend if necessary to resolve the issue.