Two United States Senators Jerry Moran and Tammy Baldwin introduced a bill on November 14, 2019, called the “Promoting Women in Trucking Workforce Act.” This bill was introduced to help increase the number of women in the trucking industry.
The ‘Women in Trucking’ bill would require FMCSA to form a “Women of Trucking Advisory Board.” On this board, research would be conducted on how women are discouraged from working in the trucking industry. Also, research would be done on how trucking companies could attract women.
Senator Jerry Moran states, “As the trucking industry continues to face a driver shortage, we need to examine new ways to recruit and retain drivers that are delivering Kansas goods across the country.” Moran also goes on to say, “Because women are substantially underrepresented in the trucking industry, Congress should explore every opportunity to sensible bill with Sen. Baldwin that will lead to new job opportunities for women and increase equality for women already in the trucking industry.”
The ‘Women in Trucking’ bill it states that women make up 47% of the United States labor force while only 7% of women are drivers. With this said, it has been shown that women drivers are 20% less likely to be involved in an accident then men drivers.
The Women in Trucking Workforce Act
In the Promoting Women in Trucking Workforce Act, the FMCSA would be required to form an advisory board. As part of the legislation, this board would research to identify the following:
- Any trucking industry trends that would discourage women from wanting a career in the trucking industry.
- How trucking companies could support women pursuing a career in the trucking industry.
- Different ways to increase successful opportunities for women in trucking.
- Ways to improve training, education, safety, and outreach programs centered around women.
The Future for Women in Trucking
In the past, trucking was thought to be a male role. However, in today’s society, women are encouraged to take on work roles that are traditionally for men. This includes the trucking industry.
As the trucking industry continues to grow, so does the need for drivers. With the new ‘Women in Trucking Bill’ being introduced, this could open many doors for women to pursue a career in trucking – and feel confident in their endeavor. It is providing women with the much-needed support to have and retain a successful trucking business.
We stand behind the women in the future of trucking and encourage it. If you are ready to pursue your trucking career and grow your owner-operator business, contact Landstar today at 877-441-9128.
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