Driver Capacity & Regulations - The Department of Transportation (DOT) has taken 9,500 truck drivers, representing approximately 1% of US truckers, off the road due to failing English proficiency tests [1] - The DOT is investigating truck driving schools, having removed 3,000 schools from its training registry and put another 4,500 on notice for non-compliance [2] Market Impact & Rates - Bank of America suggests that reducing driver capacity by 1% to 2% could significantly impact rates [2] - The American Trucking Association believes capacity tightening with demand will be extraordinary for the industry [3] - Trucking rates show a 5% year-over-year increase, potentially signaling a recovery from a three-year freight recession [4] Industry Outlook - Industry anticipates that the Secretary's focus on cleaning up the industry will be a significant driver, making roads safer and the industry more competitive and profitable [3]