New White House Policy Attempts To Ease U.S. Trucker Shortage

COVID-19 has exacerbated the U.S. trucking industry’s driver shortage. According to the American Trucking Association, for example, about 80,000 driver positions remain unfilled and even more drivers will be needed in the new year to keep up with demand.

To offer longer-term relief, last week the Biden administration unveiled a new plan aimed at improving working conditions and increasing the truck driver workforce. The plan includes:

• U.S. Department of Transportation efforts to reduce barriers to state-issuance of commercial drivers’ licenses;
• An expansion of U.S. Department of Labor-led Registered Apprenticeship programs and training for truck drivers;
• A review of pertinent industry challenges related to driver detention and pay; and
• A joint agency initiative to support career development and stabilize the future quality and appeal of trucking jobs.

As a reminder, the infrastructure bill passed overwhelmingly by Congress earlier this year would help alleviate the crisis by creating a pilot program that would loosen age restrictions and allow some 18- to 20-year-olds to drive large trucks over state lines. That job is currently limited to drivers 21 years old and older.