The American Trucking Associations praised the recent approval of the Veteran Improvement Commercial Driver License Act, which will simplify the process for veterans to obtain their CDLs. The bill passed the House by voice vote and had previously been unanimously approved by the Senate. It now awaits the President’s signature to become law.
"When our brave servicemen and women return home, they shouldn’t be burdened with bureaucratic obstacles that stand in the way of achieving the American dream they fought to protect," said Chris Spear, president and CEO of the American Trucking Associations. "Easing veterans' access to CDL programs will provide opportunities for well-paying, in-demand jobs in the trucking industry. We are grateful for the leadership of Senators Fischer and Padilla, along with Representatives Edwards and Pappas, on this vital bill that will help veterans find fulfilling careers and address the truck driver shortage."
Currently, when a certified trucking school opens a new branch, regulations require the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and state regulators to deny GI Bill benefits to the new location for two years.
The Veteran Improvement Commercial Driver License Act would eliminate this restriction, allowing veterans to use their GI Bill benefits at new branches of truck driving schools immediately, as long as the main institution has already been approved to receive GI benefits by the VA and state agencies.
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