OOIDA Updates

LOUISVILLE, KY… OOIDA Executive Vice President Lewie Pugh and the OOIDA team have been very busy in Washington, DC, lobbying for Owner-Operators specifically, and all Professional Truck Drivers generally on a number of issues.

In a recent issue with Lewie Pugh at the Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS), I asked him about some of the issues facing Professional Truck Drivers.

Movin’ Out: “What are the biggest issues facing Professional Truck Drivers today?”

Lewie: “The economy, tariffs, broker transparency, driver pay, and parking.”

Movin’ Out: “How will tariffs impact truckers?”

Lewie: “The pre-buy should bump up freight volumes, but if they continue, things could slow. Down.  Overall, we see little change.  Drivers may have to shift to a different market with what they are doing now if things should slow.”

Movin’ Out: “OOIDA recently formed a strategic partnership with Truckstop.com, an internet based load service.  What does that mean for OOIDA members?”

Lewie: “OOIDA members receive a discount and Truckstop’s online load board is supported by carrier first technologies and enhanced security features.  Truckstop.com offers our members factoring services and most importantly, vets their brokers, helping to eliminate broker fraud and abuse.”

Movin’ Out: “How is OOIDA addressing the increasing number of foreign drivers?”

Lewie: “OOIDA has petitioned the CVSA to require drivers to speak and write English before passing the CDL test and to regulate non-domicile drivers obtaining CDL licenses.  Some states  currently allow non-English speaking drivers to take their CDL test using an interpreter.   We feel it creates a safety issue if Professional Truck Drivers can’t read or write English while operating a commercial vehicle.  It also creates logistical challenges for carriers and anyone else who interfaces with them on a regular basis.”

OOIDA (Owner-Operator Independent Driver Association) is an advocacy group for Owner-Operators and all Professional Truck Drivers.  They tirelessly lobby for Professional Truck Drivers with Washington legislators and offer many benefits to their members.