Federal law currently prohibits commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers under the age of 21 from driving across state borders.

On Friday, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) announced a proposed pilot program that could possibly change that.

The pilot program would expand the operation of commercial motor vehicles in interstate commerce to individuals 18 to 20 years of age and Congressman Michael Guest (MS-03) applauds the move.  Guest is a cosponsor of H.R. 1374, the DRIVE-Safe Act, on which the pilot program is modeled.

Guest says he is a strong proponent of expanding opportunities to young workers by reducing burdensome regulations. “By lifting this burdensome regulation, the FMCSA would provide new opportunities for young people to enter the labor force as we work to recreate the booming economy we saw before the COVID-19 outbreak.”

“Industries and businesses across the district have voiced their support for this change, and I appreciate the Administration’s actions to implement the proposed legislation through this pilot program,” said Guest.

FMCSA Deputy Administrator Wiley Deck said, “This action will allow the Agency to carefully examine the safety, feasibility, and possible economic benefits of allowing 18 to 20-year-old drivers to operate in interstate commerce. Safety is always FMCSA’s top priority, so we encourage drivers, motor carriers, and interested citizens to review this proposed new pilot program and share their thoughts and opinions.”

Click here for more information on the proposed pilot program.