On Friday, June 25, 2021, CDA leadership had the opportunity to meet virtually with key Department of Labor (DOL) officials, including Katherine Eyster, advisor for private sector engagement, and Josh Orton, senior policy advisor to the Secretary, about CDA members' experiences during the current labor shortage. The meeting was organized to follow up on questions the DOL posed to the association after CDA sent a letter to President Biden on the labor shortage. CDA members have gone above and beyond to provide safe and stable jobs in their communities, but many remain unable to fill vacancies for drivers or warehouse workers. The administration officials were interested to know how CDA members have fared during and since the pandemic, and what impact CDA members have seen on their workforce.

CDA members shared their experiences with Ms. Eyster and Mr. Orton, asked for guidance and assistance from the Department and shared details on the specific challenges of hiring truck drivers. They discussed the impact of the labor shortage up and down the supply chain and also urged the DOL to work with the Department of Transportation (DOT) on programs to train and encourage younger drivers, such as the Drive Safe Act.

CDA will follow up with the DOL once members have data to illustrate the impact of the end of the additional $300-per-week unemployment insurance on vacancies.