(Washington D.C.) U.S. Representative Zach Nunn (IA-03) has introduced bipartisan legislation to address the nationwide truck driver shortage, ease supply chain disruptions, and reduce costs for American families. The Strengthening Supply Chains Through Truck Driver Incentives Act, co-led by U.S. Representative Pat Ryan (NY-18), proposes targeted tax credits for truck drivers—offering a refundable credit for current drivers and an enhanced credit for new drivers and those enrolled in registered trucking apprenticeship programs.
“We’re facing a critical shortage of truck drivers, which is straining Iowa families and our nation’s supply chains,” said Rep. Nunn. “Both recruitment and retention are major challenges in the trucking industry. This bill provides a straightforward solution to help get more drivers behind the wheel, strengthening our supply chain and lowering costs for every Iowan.”
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Iowa is home to approximately 36,000–38,000 heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers. These workers are essential to the state’s agriculture, manufacturing, and logistics industries—key pillars of Iowa’s economy.
“Truck drivers are the backbone of the American economy,” said Rep. Ryan. “They put in long, grueling hours with little support to meet our daily needs. It’s no surprise that job retention rates in this industry are declining. We must encourage more people to join and stay in the profession. Providing incentives like these will help keep skilled drivers on the road and address supply chain issues that drive up costs for American consumers. This bill is common sense—better conditions for workers, more high-paying union jobs, and lower family costs nationwide.”
The American Trucking Association reports that recruiting, hiring, training, and retaining drivers remains a major industry challenge. In 2022, the industry faced a shortage of 78,800 qualified drivers—a number expected to rise without intervention.
“Ensuring more qualified drivers get behind the wheel is critical for keeping our supply chain moving safely and efficiently,” said Chris Spear, President and CEO of the American Trucking Association. “The Strengthening Supply Chains Through Truck Driver Incentives Act will expand and retain our essential workforce by making trucking careers even more attractive while providing tax relief for new drivers. We applaud Reps. Nunn and Ryan for their efforts to break down barriers in this vital profession.”
In 2024, Rep. Nunn secured $1 million for the Des Moines Area Community College Transportation Institute Education Center and another $1 million for the Indian Hills Community College Truck Driver Education Center in Ottumwa.
“Iowa’s trucking industry provides over 100,000 well-paying jobs and plays a crucial role in our supply chain,” said Brenda Neville, President and CEO of the Iowa Motor Truck Association. “By easing the financial burden for new drivers, this legislation will open doors for more hardworking individuals to pursue trucking careers. We commend Rep. Nunn for his leadership in removing barriers to driver training and supporting Iowa’s workforce.”
The Strengthening Supply Chains Through Truck Driver Incentives Act would establish a refundable tax credit of up to $7,500 for current truck drivers logging at least 1,900 hours annually. Additionally, it would provide an enhanced $10,000 tax credit for new drivers and those enrolled in trucking apprenticeship programs.
The American Trucking Association, Iowa Motor Truck Association, Trucking Association of New York, International Foodservice Distributors Association, and the Teamsters endorse the legislation.
