Pa. Senate approves lifting restrictions on CDL drivers

The Pennsylvania Senate has approved a resolution urging the U.S. Congress to lift restrictions for holders of Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDLs) ages 18-20 years old.

Introduced by Sen. Greg Rothman, R-Cumberland/Dauphin/Perry, the measure seeks to allow these drivers to transport goods across state lines.

“The trucking industry is vital to the economy of our nation, our region, and our commonwealth,” Rothman said in a statement. “We have well trained CDL drivers who are safely and successfully driving across Pennsylvania, from Erie to Philadelphia and back but are prohibited from driving the same truck with the same load across the state line.

“The current restrictions are arbitrary and are contributing to driver shortages, shipping delays, and higher prices for consumers,” added Rothman.

According to a release, the U.S. is facing a shortage of nearly 78,000 qualified commercially licensed drivers. Over the next decade this shortage is expected to increase with the need for new drivers rising to 1.2 million.

Pennsylvania is among the 49 states allowing CDL holders ages 18-20 to operate Commercial Motor vehicles in intrastate commerce. Federal regulations, however, require CDL drivers to be at least 21 years of age to operate in interstate commerce.

Allowing CDL drivers who are 18-20 years old to participate in interstate commerce is expected to broaden the pool of qualified drivers to address the current shortage while lessening the future need for CDL drivers. Per a release, this will benefit both Pennsylvania and CDL drivers who will have earlier access to career opportunities, allowing them to establish themselves in the industry and find family-sustaining jobs.

“Making this change at the federal level would grow our workforce, help the economy, stabilize the supply chain and bring down the cost of goods for consumers,” said Rothman. “We look forward to Congressional action.”

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