Ernst Works to Cut Red Tape for Farmers During Harvest

WASHINGTON - U.S. Senators Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) are leading the charge to modernize outdated regulations holding back America's farmers and producers by allowing them to renew their Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDLs) online and update classifications for farm equipment through their Seasonal Agriculture CDL Modernization Act.

"When harvest season comes around, our farmers have enough on their plates - they shouldn't have to spend valuable time navigating bureaucratic red tape that hinders their work in the field and on the roads," said Senator Ernst. "My Seasonal Agriculture CDL Modernization Act would update outdated regulations by ensuring seasonal restricted CDL registrations and renewals can be filed online, and providing more flexibility for folks driving vehicles specifically designed for the farm. Let's hit the gas and remove these regulatory speed bumps to ensure Iowa farmers and agricultural suppliers can easily transport what they need to operate effectively."

"Kansas farmers, ranchers and agricultural producers depend on reliable, efficient transportation to move harvested crops from the fields to grain elevators and markets," said Senator Moran. "Our legislation would modernize the requirements for seasonal agricultural commercial driver's licenses, making it easier for producers to renew their CDL and safely transport farm equipment and machinery during harvest."

"The Agribusiness Association of Iowa applauds Senator Ernst for her leadership in advancing the Seasonal CDL Modernization Act," said Julie Kenney, Chief Executive Officer at Agribusiness Association of Iowa. "By providing a federal definition clarifying the use of agricultural implements of husbandry, this bill reduces unnecessary regulatory burdens and ensures regulations better reflect the unique needs of today's agricultural industry and equipment. We thank Senator Ernst for her strong support of this important legislation."

"This legislation, led by Senators Moran and Ernst, modernizes outdated regulations to help agricultural retailers operate more efficiently and strengthen the supply chain," said Richard Gupton, Senior Vice President of Public Policy & Counsel at Agricultural Retailers Association. "By allowing increased load capacities, it addresses driver shortages, reduces trips, and ensures timely delivery of essential goods-all while maintaining transportation safety."

The Seasonal Agriculture CDL Modernization Act would:

• Authorize online renewal for restricted CDLs for farm-related service industries,
• Alleviate unnecessary restrictions and penalties by clarifying that ag-related equipment does not contribute to vehicle weight calculations.

Read the bill here.

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