Transportation & Supply Chain
Supply chain disruptions and transportation challenges continue to cause major challenges for the ag industry. Ag retailers need modernized and preserved U.S. inland waterways and freight rails to continue to feed and fuel America’s agricultural economy and global competitiveness.
New Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements have increased operating costs on agribusinesses in the amount of $6,000 - $8,000 per driver and serve as a barrier to entry for individuals interested in obtaining a commercial driver’s license (CDL).
ARA Position
- Reauthorize the Surface Transportation Board (STB) to address rising demurrage & detention costs to shippers & promote more competition;
- Support the Reliable Rail Service (S. 2071) to better define Class 1 rail carriers’ common carrier obligation & provide clear oversight rules for regulators;
- Reauthorize the Water Resources Development Act, which authorizes critical waterway projects to improve ports, harbors, inland waterways, & other water resources infrastructure;
- Expand the Safe Driver Apprenticeship Pilot Program to allow an increased number of 18- to 20-year-old drivers to participate & more opportunities under the program;
- Support HR 3318, legislation to allow a 10% axle variance for dry bulk without increasing overall federal gross vehicle weight limit; and
- Support Hours of Service legislation eliminating “planting & harvesting” seasonal provisions & authorize a pilot program for farm supply transporters to operate up to a 200-air mile radius.
Each year, ARA members decide a new set of public policy issues to steer the association's advocacy efforts with elected officials and regulatory agencies in Washington during the annual ARA Legislative Fly-In and beyond.
View the list of main policy priorities.
DC Help Desk
ARA's DC Help Desk member service is a direct line to ag public policy experts. Send regulatory and legislative questions to the DC Help Desk for support. ARA members may also use this service to request help when scheduling a facility tour with their elected official in Congress.