Federal officials say they're working to distribute a million face masks to long-haul truck drivers amid the pandemic. This, after advocates pleaded for Congress to do more to protect truckers while they're traveling across the country. Supporters say it's needed, as truckers are risking their lives every day to transport essential items for grocery stores and medical facilities.
It's not glamorous work. But the pandemic reminds us how important truck driving is to our country. Chris Vandever transports ice cream and cheese products all over for Midwest Continental. He says his work has been steady amid the outbreak. But he's notice one big difference.
“More rules, regulations. Shippers, receivers are making us put on a mask to go into the building, if we get to go in. Sometimes they wouldn’t let us in the building. We have to do our business in the parking lot,” Vandever explained.
He's not worried about catching COVID-19, as most of the time he is by himself. He hopes business will pick up for other truck drivers who don’t have as much work amid the economic downturn.