Wisconsin Senate panel advances truck-driver grant program

Work is progressing at the Wisconsin statehouse to create a commercial driver training grant program in the state.

The Senate Economic Development and Technical Colleges Committee has voted unanimously to advance a bill that would require the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development to establish and administer the grant program.

Sponsored by Sen. Eric Wimberger, R-Green Bay, SB271 specifies that a CDL training provider must satisfy entry-level driver training requirements established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

The bill would limit grant amounts awarded up to 50% of the training costs or $3,000, whichever is less, for each individual trained.

The program would be funded with $250,000 through the approved 2023-2025 biennial budget.

Eligible training providers amendment

As introduced, SB271 called for allowing any CDL training provider in the U.S. to apply for a grant. Wimberger amended the bill in committee to require eligible training providers to be located in Wisconsin and to train individuals who reside in and will obtain their CDL in the state.

A fiscal estimate attached to the bill reports there are more than 600 training entities listed on FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry that have locations in Wisconsin.

The Department of Workforce Development would be responsible for coordinating with the state Department of Transportation and FMCSA for assistance in establishing applicant eligibility for the grant program.

Importance of truckers touted

A year ago, Wisconsin shipped 661 million tons of freight by all modes of transportation. Nearly two-thirds of that freight was moved via truck, Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce testified. During that time, the total freight value was estimated at $389 billion.

Wimberger told the committee the grant program is needed to increase the number of commercial drivers licensed in the state.

“Without the dedicated and skilled truck drivers, many important, time-sensitive products and services would come to a halt,” Wimberger testified.

He said his bill takes on greater importance because new federal guidelines have raised the standard for who can offer CDL training.

Wimberger added it is important that the state act to benefit driver training programs. He pointed out the current tuition cost for affected programs is nearly $4,000.

“This legislation will help lower the cost of participating in CDL training programs, increase the pool of potential employees for this important industry and continue to make Wisconsin competitive in providing quality, family-sustaining jobs,” he said.

SB271 awaits further consideration on the Senate floor. The Assembly version is in the Assembly Transportation Committee. LL

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