Thomas Balzer, President and CEO of the Ohio Trucking Association, joins Ohio lawmakers for a press conference to announce four key pieces of legislation aimed at easing the employment shortage in Ohio's trucking industry.

"Regulatory barriers are making it more and more difficult for the trucking industry to find qualified workers to enter the profession," said Senator Hite. "Our legislation cuts some of the red tape stifling this vital industry."

Age limitations and with stringent government regulations have strained the industry's ability to recruit, train and employ qualified drivers.

Mr. Balzer is joined by Sen. Cliff Hite (R-Findlay), Sen. Frank LaRose (R-Hudson), Rep. Robert Sprague (R-Findlay), Rep. Ryan Smith (R-Bidwell), Rep. Nathan Manning (R-North Ridgeville), Rep. Niraj Antani (R-Miamisburg) and Rep. Stephanie D. Howse (D-Cleveland).