Bipartisan Legislation to Aid Veterans in Trucking Careers
(Big Sandy, Mont.) – Following efforts by Jon Tester, the Chairman of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, President Joe Biden has signed into law the bipartisan Veteran Improvement Commercial Driver License Act. This new legislation aims to simplify the process for veterans to utilize their education benefits to become truck drivers.
Reducing Barriers for Veterans
The legislation is designed to strengthen the trucking workforce by eliminating bureaucratic hurdles that have hindered veterans from applying their GI Bill benefits towards obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) via accredited educational programs. This change will enhance veterans’ access to CDL training and enable them to seek high-paying positions in the trucking sector.
Supporting Veterans’ Rights
“The individuals who served our nation deserve to use their GI Bill benefits to pursue lucrative careers in trucking without encountering unnecessary obstacles,” stated Chairman Tester. “Truck drivers play a vital role in our economy, and I am pleased that this practical legislation will help increase the number of qualified truckers, thereby addressing the shortage in the industry.”
Industry Perspectives
Henry Hanscom, the Senior Vice President of Legislative Affairs at American Trucking Associations (ATA), noted, “Returning servicemembers should not be burdened by red tape that hinders their pursuit of the American dream they defended. We appreciate Senator Tester’s support for this legislation, which streamlines the path for veterans to enter rewarding careers in trucking. The passing of this sensible, bipartisan law benefits both veterans and the trucking industry as a whole.”
Changes in Educational Program Regulations
Previously, educational institutions offering CDL programs were prohibited from accepting GI Bill benefits for two years after their establishment, including existing approved schools that launched new branches. The new law permits these newly opened locations of approved institutions to accept GI Bill benefits immediately.
Advocacy for Veteran Employment
Tester has consistently championed the enhancement of veterans’ job opportunities in the trucking industry. Besides the Veteran Improvement Commercial Driver License Act, he introduced the bipartisan Veterans Transition to Trucking Act in March. This additional legislation aims to simplify access for veterans to Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) education benefits, enabling them to enroll in trucking apprenticeship programs that operate across state lines and broaden their access to interstate trucking jobs.
