A protest is being organized against recent changes in Illinois that have affected the trucking industry.

The event is being used to highlight the effects of a 36 percent increase in registration fees in Illinois; the end of the rolling stock exemption on repair and replacement parts; and the failure of a bill that would have ended the split speed limit, organizers said.

The protest, part of The Midwest Truckers Association’s annual Truck Lobby Day at the Illinois Capitol building in Springfield, will take place at 11 a.m. today, Nov. 18, at the east entrance of the state Capitol.

The organizers are encouraging truckers who plan to join to contact them in advance, since there is limited space for semis near the Capitol. Truckers can call (217) 525-0310, or write down your name, full address, phone number and whether you intend to bring a vehicle, and fax that information to (217) 525-0342.

As part of the protest, all truckers in Illinois are being encouraged to strictly observe the 55 mph speed limit for trucks on the interstates all day.