Looking Ahead
Dear Jerry,
The House of Representatives has introduced H.R. 4441, the Aviation Innovation, Reform, and Reauthorization Act. The “AIRR” Act is a bill designed to authorize aviation programs, but large motor carriers have managed to slip in a provision that will impact truck driver pay. Section 611 of the bill was inserted as a result of a 9th circuit court decision to enforce a 100 year old law in California pertaining to meal and rest breaks for employees. However, the language also includes an ambitious overreach that would limit the states’ ability to address pay issues. Section 611 contains the exact same provisions regarding fair-pay that our opponents unsuccessfully tried to include in the Highway bill known as the FAST Act last year. OOIDA stands firmly opposed to this language.
OOIDA needs you to speak out and call your lawmakers about Section 611 because it could unravel mandated fair-pay for drivers and would empower large carriers to further reduce driver wages. If the legislation is enacted, carriers will only have to pay drivers on a piece rate/per mile basis meaning you would not be paid for detention time, safety inspections, paper work, or any other activities that take place when the wheels are not moving. It would also gut the ability for states to address payment for these critical items in the future.
Act now and let your lawmakers know that Section 611 of the AIRR Act regarding Piece Rate should be removed from the bill. Now is the time for you to be vocal – oppose language that jeopardizes fair compensation for drivers. You can find your lawmaker by clicking here.
Make a phone call and send a short message. IF WE DON’T STAND UP FOR BETTER PAY, NO ONE ELSE WILL!
Thank You,
OOIDA Call To Action Team