DRIVE-Safe Act Introduced to Address Driver Shortage
Legislation to address the national driver shortage was introduced this week. At this time, 48 states permit the issuing of commercial drivers’ licenses to 18 year-old drivers for intra-state commerce. However, current federal regulations require drivers in interstate commerce to be at least 21 years of age. The bills introduced this week, S. 569, the Developing Responsible Individuals for a Vibrant Economy Act, also called the “DRIVE-Safe Act,” and the companion bill in the House, H.R. 1374, are intended to attract younger drivers to trucking by allowing employers to provide CDL holders below the age of 21 with an extensive apprenticeship program that will prepare them to be able to drive in interstate commerce.
CDA is an active part of the Coalition working with the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee, as well as with allied trade associations, to urge Congress to support and pass S. 569, and H.R. 1374. Attached are endorsement letters from the Coalition (House and Senate).