The growing truck parking crisis in the U.S. has led over a dozen trucking industry stakeholders, spearheaded by the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA), to call on the House of Representatives to vote on the Truck Parking Safety Improvement Act (HR2367).
This legislation, which has been stalled since passing the committee last May, would provide $755 million over three years to expand truck parking capacity across the country.
Why the Truck Parking Bill Matters
The shortage of safe and accessible parking for truck drivers is a significant safety concern. Truckers often face the tough choice between parking in unsafe locations or violating federally mandated hours of service by continuing to drive while fatigued. This situation endangers not only truckers but also other motorists on the road.
The Truck Parking Safety Improvement Act seeks to address this issue by funding truck parking projects that are publicly accessible and free of charge, ensuring that drivers have safe options while they rest. Importantly, the bill prohibits the inclusion of paid parking in any funded projects, making it clear that all new parking must be free to use.
A Unified Push for Action
On July 29, 2024, a coalition of trucking associations sent a letter to House Speaker Mike Johnson and Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, urging them to move forward with HR2367. The letter emphasized that truck parking is a national safety issue that affects everyone on the road.
The coalition also highlighted a recent high-profile crash involving a Greyhound bus and trucks parked on the shoulder of an exit ramp in Illinois, resulting in three deaths and 14 injuries. This tragic incident underscores the urgent need for more secure truck parking solutions.
Funding Without New Spending
One key point in the coalition’s letter was that HR2367 would not lead to increased federal spending. Instead, it allocates funds already available through the annual appropriations process, making it a fiscally responsible solution to a critical safety issue.
The coalition argues that passing the bill would demonstrate Congress’s commitment to improving highway safety and addressing the daily challenges faced by truck drivers.
Many in the trucking industry feel that while they operate under strict federal regulations, lawmakers have largely ignored their concerns about safety and parking.
Industry Support
Led by OOIDA, the coalition includes a diverse group of organizations from across the trucking industry, including the American Trucking Associations, Women in Trucking, the North American Punjabi Trucking Association, and the National Association of Small Trucking Companies.
These groups represent a wide array of stakeholders who understand the impact of the truck parking shortage on safety, efficiency, and the overall supply chain.
How to Get Involved
As of July 30, 2024, HR2367 has garnered 49 co-sponsors, with a nearly even split between Republicans and Democrats. However, more support is needed to push the bill to the House floor for a vote. Truckers and supporters can make their voices heard by visiting FightingForTruckers.com and sending a letter directly to their representatives, urging them to support this critical piece of legislation.
The Future of the Truck Parking Safety Improvement Act
The Truck Parking Safety Improvement Act has been in limbo for over a year despite overwhelming bipartisan support from the committee.
Moving this bill forward is essential not only for improving the lives of truck drivers but also for enhancing safety on America’s highways. With continued pressure from industry groups and grassroots supporters, the hope is that the House will finally bring HR2367 to the floor for a vote.
As of today, however, the truck parking shortage remains a key issue for the industry. Truck Parking Club works hard with private truck parking owners to improve the situation.
Whenever you need a reliable truck parking spot, TPC is your go-to platform. We connect truckers with pre-vetted truck parking owners, ensuring you always have a place to park your rig wherever the road takes you.
Source: Truck parking coalition urges House leadership to vote on parking bill
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