ARA Signed Farm-Related Restricted CDL Coalition Letters to Congress
May 26 2021
ARA and the more than 50 organizations sent letters to the U.S. House and Senate as part of a coalition supporting the modernization of the "Seasonal Ag CDL" program, which promotes economic growth for America's agricultural industries serving the essential needs of farmers during the busy planting and harvesting seasons.
The coalition requests that Congress:
- Provide more flexibility by expanding the total days allowed to utilize Farm-Related Restricted CDL drivers up to 270 days to accommodate for longer seasons, which fluctuate due to climate change and more diversified crop production;
- Ensure the new 12-month seasons restart each calendar year on Jan. 1 to prevent overlap of seasons from the previous year;
- Ensure Farm-Related Restricted CDL drivers can also operate Class A commercial vehicles in recognition of the advances and changes made to light duty pickup trucks, ag equipment and trailers; and
- Eliminate the requirement for in-person seasonal renewal of the Farm-Related Restricted CDL.
The surface transportation reauthorization bill offers an opportunity to enact needed reforms that help provide necessary flexibility, eliminate supply chain disruptions, and ensure economic growth for ag retailers and their rural communities, according to the letters. Read the letters to learn more.