WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Zach Nunn (IA-03) has introduced bipartisan legislation to help address truck driver shortages, reduce supply chain disruptions, and lower costs for American families. The Strengthening Supply Chains Through Truck Driver Incentives Act, which is co-led by U.S. Representative Pat Ryan (NY-18), would create targeted tax credits for truck drivers, including a refundable credit for current drivers and an enhanced credit for new drivers and individuals enrolled in registered trucking apprenticeship programs. “Right now, we’re facing a serious shortage of truck drivers, and it’s putting pressure on Iowa families and our nation’s supply chains,” said Rep. Nunn. “We are experiencing both a recruitment and a retention problem in the trucking industry. This is a simple fix to help get more drivers behind the wheel –  improving our supply chain and bringing down costs for every Iowan.”

Iowa has approximately 36,000–38,000 heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers employed according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This large workforce plays a key role in supporting Iowa’s agriculture, manufacturing, and logistics sectors — all critical to the state’s economy. According to a report by the American Trucking Association, the trucking industry faces issues with recruiting, hiring, training, and retaining its workforce. In 2022, the shortage of qualified drivers reached 78,800 drivers. The number is expected to continue to rise in coming years without action.

The bipartisan Strengthening Supply Chains Through Truck Driver Incentives Act would create a refundable tax credit of up to $7,500 for current truck drivers who drive at least 1,900 hours a year. It also establishes an enhanced tax credit of $10,000 for new truck drivers and individuals in trucking apprenticeship programs. The legislation is endorsed by the American Trucking Association, the Iowa Motor Truck Association, the Trucking Association of New York, International Foodservice Distributors Association, and the Teamsters.

Text of the bill can be found here.