ATA Backs Legislation Authorizing Interstate Pilot Programs for Younger Drivers
American Trucking Associations endorsed congressional legislation that would lead to a graduated licensing program for commercial drivers.
Sen. Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) introduced on June 24 the Commercial Driver Act, which would authorize the creation of pilot programs to see how well 18- to-21-year-old drivers can do operating heavy-duty trucks across state lines. Many states allow people of the same age to drive big trucks within the state’s borders.
American Trucking Associations President Bill Graves said July 21 that the federation “applauds Sen. Fischer for introducing legislation that could bring us closer to a graduated licensing program for commercial drivers hauling freight across state lines.”
Graves said the experiment would be worthwhile because it provides job opportunities to young people, where unemployment has been high, and because it would make freight delivery more rational.
Many legal intrastate movements are much longer than prohibited interstate routes where state lines cut through metropolitan areas.
