A shortage of truck drivers is a rapidly growing problem in MGA states. Nearly 70 percent of freight moved in the U.S. goes by truck, particularly in the manufacturing heavy Midwest. The trucker shortage is estimated to be at least 48,000 drivers nationwide, and will grow to about 175,000 drivers by 2024. In 2016 the MGA will focus on the truck driver shortage in the Midwest as part of the America’s Smartland Discussion Series.

The MGA will bring together state government staff, relevant associations, and impacted businesses for a series of conference calls on varying related topics. Then the MGA will host a day-long meeting to discuss this issue, as well as industry needs, share best practices, gain a better understanding of the issue, and review potential solutions and unifying issues to increase the interest in and number of truck drivers in the Midwest.