Last week, the National Limousine Association (NLA) learned that the Senate Commerce Committee was set to vote on an amendment to the committee’s surface transportation bill, which would have imposed a federal CDL requirement on all 9+ passenger vehicles (including the driver). With a shortage of CDL drivers already plaguing the industry, this legislation would be a costly, time-consuming, and unnecessary step that would put further strain on operators around the country as they work toward recovery.
NLA President Robert Alexander
The NLA took immediate action and provided operators with an online form letter that could be sent to the members’ senators. Through their members and partners, and through tireless advocacy, these efforts ensured that the amendment was not even considered for a vote. Now, the infrastructure bill will advance to the full Senate without this potentially harmful requirement.
“We have been working with House and Senate lawmakers for over a year to ensure that any limousine provisions in an infrastructure bill are acceptable to the industry,” said NLA President Robert Alexander of RMA Worldwide in a statement to members. “We will continue to monitor the situation and fight hard for the industry as Congress continues to negotiate an infrastructure bill over the coming months.”
Matt Assolin Legislative Committee co-chair
Brett Barenholtz Legislative Committee co-chair
Alexander cited the work of Cornerstone Government Affairs—namely, Louie Perry, Todd Webster, and Dylan Mooers—for their efforts in quashing the amendment but also for looking out for the association and the industry at large every single day in Washington, D.C. Cornerstone has been working on this particular issue for more than a year now and their persistence paid has off for the industry.
“I also want to thank the Legislative Committee, co-chaired by Matt Assolin and Brett Barenholtz, for consistently working with the Cornerstone team to ensure the industry's voice is heard,” added Alexander. “Our committees play a valuable role in shaping the NLA's message, initiatives, and programs. It is often a thankless job, but a very important one and I hope to see even more members get involved in the NLA's efforts.”
You can stay apprised of any federal legislation that is being introduced in Washington by visiting limo.org, doing a keyword search at congress.gov, and at chauffeurdriven.com.
[06.18.21]