Webinar Recap: CVTA's 2026 Advocacy Day & 119th Congress Priorities

CVTA hosted a member webinar to prepare participants for Advocacy Day on March 25–26 in Washington, D.C. The session brought together industry members to review the event structure, align on policy priorities, and offer guidance on engaging with congressional offices.

Advocacy Day will begin with a preparation session, followed by meetings with Members of Congress and their staff. These meetings allow industry professionals to share firsthand perspectives on how high-quality commercial driver training supports highway safety, workforce development, and the U.S. supply chain. The discussion centered on several core areas that shape CVTA’s advocacy priorities, including:

• Enforcement of Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) standards

• Workforce development and WIOA funding

• Oversight and integrity of the commercial driver licensing system

• Removing regulatory barriers that delay new drivers from entering the workforce

• Expanding apprenticeship pathways through the DRIVE Safe Act
  

Webinar participants stressed the importance of delivering a focused message to policymakers. Members will concentrate on a few priority issues where industry experience offers meaningful insight. Key themes included enforcing Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) standards, addressing challenges in workforce development programs such as the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), and improving oversight and consistency in the commercial driver licensing system.

Members shared examples from their training programs that demonstrate how professional driver training supports workforce mobility and connects individuals to stable, well-paying careers. Participants highlighted the value of strong partnerships with workforce agencies and emphasized that effective training programs address workforce needs while maintaining high safety standards.

The webinar offered practical advice for first-time Advocacy Day attendees. Experienced members encouraged clear, concise messaging and drawing on real-world experience when discussing policy issues. Building relationships with congressional staff and maintaining ongoing dialogue with policymakers were identified as key to effective advocacy.

The discussion concluded with a review of next steps, including finalizing talking points, preparing participants for Capitol Hill meetings, and ensuring attendees have the necessary materials and logistical information. CVTA will continue to coordinate with participants in the weeks leading up to Advocacy Day to support productive, well-organized meetings with congressional offices. Speakers: Sean Williams: President of Southwest Truck Driver Training Board Member and Chairman of the Legislative and Regulatory Committee Samantha Greenberg: Owner of NETTTS Vice Chair of CVTA and Vice Chair of the Legislative and Regulatory Committee Andrew Poliakoff: CVTA Executive Director