U.S. lawmakers are reintroducing a truck parking bill that they previously presented in every congressional session since 2020. The Truck Parking Safety Improvement Act addresses the shortage of trucker parking spaces. On Thursday, February 28th, U.S. Rep. Mike Bost introduced the bill with representatives Pete Stauber, Angie Craig, and Salud Carbajal. The bill will direct the DOT (Department of Transportation) to provide grants for projects to provide public parking for carriers. In particular, it will set aside $755 million over five years from fiscal year 2025 to 2029. The provisions will include grants for states, local governments, and metropolitan planning organizations to develop truck parking projects.
What Is The Truck Parking Safety Act?
The Truck Parking Safety Act is the government’s approach to creating more trucker parking spaces. Mike Bost recently noted, “I know firsthand how difficult, and oftentimes dangerous, it can be when America’s truckers are forced to push that extra mile in search of a safe place to park.” Some of the main points in the bill include:
- Having federal funds specifically for truck parking projects.
- Constructing more parking facilities and expanding existing locations such as rest areas and truck stops.
- Ensuring secure and well-lit parking areas for driver safety.
Since its introduction, trucking groups like the ATA (American Trucking Associations) have supported the bill. ATA President Chris Spear said, “Chronic lack of truck parking poses an unacceptable risk for truck drivers and the public.” OOIDA President notes, “We must either continue to drive while fatigued or out of legal driving time, or park in an undesignated and unsafe location like the side of the road or abandoned lot.” The truck parking bill lawmakers released in 2023 attracted 53 co-sponsors and passed the committee with a 60-4 vote. Despite the support shown by the White House, the Senate’s Environment and Public Works Committee has yet to take action.
Why are Lawmakers Reintroducing a Truck Parking Bill?
Reintroducing the bill aims to combat the nationwide truck parking shortage. A lack of parking locations can adversely affect truckers, supply chains, and the general public. For drivers, the inability to find safe and legal parking spaces can result in fatigued driving outside legal hours. When they can’t find parking spaces, truckers may sometimes park in undesignated or unsafe areas like an abandoned lot. Driving tired can also pose a hazard to the general public and is a common cause of domestic shipping accidents. For supply chains, accidents can lead to cargo damage or loss, negatively impacting the shipper and the customer.
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