Iowa farmers are receiving much-needed support to meet commercial driver's license (CDL) requirements through grants provided by the state. The grants, totaling $2.94 million, aim to strengthen CDL training programs and help around 1,600 individuals obtain their CDLs for driving trucks and school buses.
The Iowa Workforce Development office (IWD) is overseeing the distribution of funds, which have generated significant interest and positive feedback. Farmers and businesses are utilizing the grants in various ways, such as upskilling current employees, partnering with training providers, and establishing their own training programs. These initiatives address the challenges faced by new applicants due to stricter federal driver's education requirements, which have increased the cost and complexity of obtaining a CDL.
Out of the 46 grants awarded, 31 were given to trucking-related interests, including agriculture and construction companies. By investing in CDL training, Iowa aims to address the shortage of qualified drivers and support its vibrant agricultural industry.
Governor Kim Reynolds has been proactive in tackling the CDL driver shortage, enacting legislation to expand authorized parties for CDL testing. The grants provide much-needed resources to ensure a skilled and robust workforce, benefiting both Iowa's transportation network and its agricultural economy.
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Categories: Iowa, Business, Education, Government & Policy