The Intermodal Association of North America (IANA) has publicly endorsed the Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution aimed at overturning the Department of Labor’s (DOL) recent final rule concerning the classification of workers as employees or independent contractors under the Fair Labor Standards Act. This legislation, introduced in both chambers of Congress, addresses the DOL’s rule that potentially jeopardizes the professional autonomy of millions of independent contractors, including a significant number of intermodal truck drivers who face the risk of being reclassified as employees against their will.
Joni Casey, President and CEO of IANA, emphasized the critical role of the intermodal industry in the U.S. economy, facilitating the secure and efficient transport of a wide array of goods. For many years, over 80% of intermodal drivers have opted to work as independent contractors, a choice that the DOL’s new rulemaking could nullify, thus hindering their ability to invest in and manage their own businesses. Casey warned that, without intervention from Congress, the enforcement of the DOL’s regulations could deter skilled drivers from the industry, exacerbate the current driver shortage, and disrupt the national supply chain—leading to slowed goods movement and escalated costs for consumers.
IANA has applauded the efforts of Senator Cassidy from Louisiana, Congressman Kiley from California, and their fellow lawmakers for acknowledging the severe economic and workforce implications posed by the DOL’s independent contractor rule. The association is advocating for the expedited approval of the CRA resolution to prevent the DOL’s controversial rule from being implemented.
Set to be enforced starting March 11, 2024, the DOL’s rule has prompted IANA to draft a letter to Congress, urging support for the resolution. The industry’s united stand through this legislative push highlights the urgent need to protect the existing independent contractor model that is foundational to the intermodal sector’s operations and the broader U.S. economy.
