U.S. Rep. Angie Craig Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Improve Safety for Truck Drivers
The Truck Parking Safety Improvement Act would address a critical shortage in available parking for semis and large commercial trucks
WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Angie Craig and Rep. Mike Bost (R-IL) re-introduced the bipartisan Truck Parking Safety Improvement Act.
The bill would improve highway safety for drivers across the country by addressing a critical shortage in available parking for semis and large commercial trucks.
Currently, there are not enough areas for truck drivers to safely park and rest on highways nationwide – and drivers are often forced to choose between continuing to drive or parking in unsafe locations.
“Our truck drivers play a critical role in keeping our supply chains moving and intact – and it’s our responsibility to make sure they are able to do so safely and efficiently,” said Rep. Craig. “Rep. Bost and I are working to pass our bipartisan bill to improve road safety for truck drivers and everyone on the road.”
“I grew up in a family trucking business,” said Representative Bost. “I understand 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. By expanding access to parking options for truckers, we are making our roads safer for all commuters and ensuring that goods and supplies are shipped to market in the most efficient way possible. This is a matter of public safety; and I’m committed to do all I can to drive this legislation over the finish line.”
The Truck Parking Safety Improvement Act is co-sponsored by Reps. Brian Babin (R-TX), Pete Stauber (R-MN) and Dan Meuser (R-PA) and is supported by several industry groups.
“Most folks probably don’t realize that 70% of American freight is transported by truck, yet incredibly there is only 1 parking spot for every 11 trucks on the road,” said Todd Spencer, President of the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association. “When truck drivers don’t have a designated place to park, they end up parking on the side of the road, near exit ramps, or elsewhere. This isn’t safe for the driver and it’s not safe for others on the road. Senator Lummis, Senator Kelly, Representative Bost, and Representative Craig have heard from small business truckers across America and are leading the charge in Congress to improve road safety through expanded truck parking.”
"The lack of safe and accessible truck parking places an enormous and costly burden on our nation's truck drivers as they work to deliver for the American people. Given the chronic nature of this issue and its national scope, it is imperative Congress takes action to provide dedicated funding to expand commercial truck parking capacity. We thank Senators Lummis and Kelly for their leadership on this vital piece of legislation, which will strengthen our supply chain and improve highway safety for all motorists," said Chris Spear, President and CEO of the American Trucking Association.
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