Thanks to Former CVTA Chairman, Jerome Redmond's Testimony, the 529 Workforce Bill Moves Forward
- andrew.poliakoff
- May 13
- 2 min read
In October 2023, CVTA Chairman Jerome Redmond, President and CEO of American Truck Training, testified before the U.S. House Ways and Means Committee in support of the Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow’s Workforce Act (H.R. 1477). His testimony, filled with moving personal stories and firsthand insights from the front lines of career training, played a meaningful role in elevating the issue before Congress.
That bill—designed to expand 529 education savings accounts to cover high-quality workforce training programs, including truck driver training—has now taken a major step forward. The 529 provision championed by Mr. Redmond is included in the comprehensive tax package currently being considered in Congress, known informally as the “One Big Beautiful” tax bill.
Redmond's testimony reminded lawmakers that commercial truck driving is not only a pathway to stable, well-paying careers, but also an essential part of keeping America’s supply chain moving. He spoke of the barriers many prospective students face in paying for training—even those with the drive, discipline, and determination to succeed. With clarity and compassion, he urged Congress to allow 529 plans to become “career savings accounts,” not just college savings plans.
During his testimony, Redmond also reflected on his personal journey into trucking, inspired by his stepfather “Pops,” whose own path to a better life began with earning a CDL. With heartfelt recollections and a touch of humor, Redmond connected with lawmakers, many of whom were visibly moved and later shared their own stories. His message was simple but profound: truck driver training changes lives, and expanding 529 plans to include it is a commonsense solution to workforce shortages and economic barriers.
Jerome’s voice—backed by the stories of his students and the values of our industry—resonated across party lines and helped bring national attention to this commonsense policy. “This isn’t just my story,” he said. “It’s the story of all our trucking schools—stories of opportunity, determination, and life-changing careers.”
As the tax package continues toward Congressional deliberation, CVTA members can be proud that one of our own helped shape the conversation in Washington. We thank Jerome Redmond for his leadership, his advocacy, and for advancing the interests of thousands of students seeking great careers in the trucking industry.