WASHINGTON — The Truck Parking Safety Improvement Act was reintroduced in Congress on Thursday, aiming to allocate federal grants specifically for expanding much-needed parking spaces for truckers during their off-duty hours.
This updated version of the bill proposes to reserve $755 million over five years (FY2025 to FY2029) through a competitive grant program. Similar proposals were put forward in 2021 and 2023.
“I grew up in a family trucking business,” stated Mike Bost, a Republican from Illinois, who reintroduced the legislation in the U.S. House alongside Representatives Angie Craig (D-Minn.), Pete Stauber (R-Minn.), and Salud Carbajal (D-Calif.).
“I know firsthand the challenges and dangers truckers face when they must drive for long periods searching for safe parking. By increasing availability of parking options for truckers, we enhance safety for all commuters and ensure the efficient transport of goods. This is essential for public safety, and I am committed to getting this legislation passed.”
Owner-operators and carriers have highlighted the lack of safe parking as a top priority for legislators over the past five years.
“As a driver, I can say that when there aren’t safe parking options, truckers find themselves in a dire situation,” said Todd Spencer, president of the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association. “We are forced to choose between driving while fatigued or beyond legal limits, or parking in unsafe areas like roadways or abandoned lots. This compromises both our safety and compliance with federal Hours-of-Service regulations, endangering everyone on the road.”
Chris Spear, President of the American Trucking Association, echoed these sentiments, calling the shortage of truck parking an unacceptable risk for both drivers and the general public. “Congress must intervene to find a solution.”
Eligible projects under the proposed legislation include the construction of new standalone safety rest areas for truck parking or the addition of parking spaces at private commercial truck stops or travel plazas. Additionally, federal funds could be used to reopen existing weigh stations, safety rest areas, or park-and-ride facilities for commercial truck parking.
