SE Wyoming News

U.S. Senators Cynthia Lummis and Mark Kelly have introduced the Licensing Individual Commercial Exam-takers Now Safely and Efficiently (LICENSE) Act, a bipartisan effort aimed at increasing the number of truck drivers in the United States to help address supply chain challenges. This legislation seeks to build on waivers previously implemented by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Wyoming relies on America’s truck drivers to deliver goods to folks and small businesses throughout our rural state," said Senator Lummis. "Streamlining commercial driver’s licensing and cutting this burdensome red tape will ensure the people in the Cowboy State can rely on deliveries so they get the resources they need."

Senator Kelly emphasized Arizona's reliance on commercial drivers for economic stability: "I’m glad to work with my colleague Senator Lummis to cut red tape, support the trucking industry, and ensure the federal government is doing everything it can to strengthen our economy and lower costs for families in Arizona."

The LICENSE Act is designed to make permanent two waivers issued repeatedly since 2020 that reduced administrative burdens for those pursuing careers in trucking. According to Dan Horvath of the American Trucking Associations, these waivers allowed new operational efficiencies without compromising safety during their temporary implementation.

Kevin Hawley from the Wyoming Trucking Association highlighted how these measures balance safety standards while simplifying processes for aspiring truck drivers. He stated that making these waivers permanent would streamline obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), thereby supporting both truckers and Wyoming's economy.

Ryan Streblow of the National Tank Truck Carriers pointed out that allowing states to test applicants regardless of residency or training location could address workforce shortages and enhance supply chain strength.

Danny Bradford from the Commercial Vehicle Training Association expressed approval for reintroducing this bill swiftly, urging Congress to pass it promptly as part of efforts to stimulate economic growth.

The LICENSE Act has received endorsements from several industry organizations including various transport conferences, associations related to trucking logistics, storage, vehicle training, freight services, intermodal motor carriers, tank truck carriers, and more.