Apr 1, 2025

On March 27, 2025, Representatives Pat Ryan and Zachary Nunn reintroduced the bipartisan “Strengthening Supply Chains Through Truck Driver Incentives Act.” This legislation aims to bolster the U.S. supply chain by offering substantial tax incentives to attract and retain truck drivers.

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Key Provisions of the Bill:
  • Tax Credit for Experienced Drivers: The bill proposes a two-year refundable tax credit of up to $7,500 for truck drivers holding a valid Class A commercial driver’s license (CDL) who log at least 1,900 driving hours annually. New drivers who may not meet the 1,900-hour threshold could still qualify for a partial credit if they drive fewer than 1,420 hours but maintain an average of 40 hours per week after starting their driving duties.

  • Incentives for New Drivers and Apprentices: The legislation also introduces a refundable two-year tax credit of up to $10,000 for new truck drivers or individuals enrolled in registered trucking apprenticeship programs. New drivers are defined as those who did not operate a commercial truck in the prior year or drive at least 1,420 hours in the current year.

Industry Support:

The bill has garnered endorsements from several prominent organizations, including the American Trucking Associations, the Trucking Association of New York, the New York Farm Bureau Federation, the International Foodservice Distributors Association, and the Teamsters. Chris Spear, President and CEO of the American Trucking Associations, stated that the act would “grow and retain our essential workforce by making rewarding, good-paying careers in trucking even more attractive while also providing tax relief for new drivers.”

Background:

Similar legislation has been introduced in previous years but has not advanced. The reintroduction of this bill underscores the ongoing efforts to address the truck driver shortage, which has significantly impacted supply chains and contributed to rising consumer prices.

Conclusion:

If enacted, the Strengthening Supply Chains Through Truck Driver Incentives Act would provide financial incentives to both current and prospective truck drivers, aiming to alleviate workforce shortages and strengthen the nation’s supply chain infrastructure.