Carbondale Reporter

U.S. Representative Mike Bost (R-IL) has collaborated with Representatives Angie Craig (D-MN), Pete Stauber (R-MN), and Salud Carbajal (D-CA) to reintroduce the Truck Parking Safety Improvement Act. This legislation aims to tackle the nationwide shortage of safe parking spaces for large commercial trucks by providing funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation on a competitive basis for constructing new lots and spaces.

Rep. Bost, who grew up in a family trucking business, highlighted the dangers truckers face when searching for safe parking: "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." He emphasized that expanding parking options will enhance road safety and improve supply chain efficiency.

Representative Craig added her support by stating, "Truck drivers keep our nation's supply chains moving, and they should never be forced to forgo much-needed rest because of insufficient highway parking."

Chris Spear, President and CEO of the American Trucking Association, noted the importance of this issue: “The chronic lack of truck parking poses an unacceptable risk to both truckers and the nation’s motoring public.” He expressed gratitude towards Reps. Bost and Craig for their leadership on this legislation.

Todd Spencer, President of the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association, shared his perspective as a former truck driver: "Lack of safe truck parking has been a top concern of truckers for decades." He pointed out that without proper parking facilities, drivers are forced into unsafe situations.

Truck drivers must adhere to 'Hours of Service' regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. On average, each driver spends about one hour daily searching for safe parking. A study commissioned by the Federal Highway Administration found that 98% of drivers regularly struggle to find secure spots.

The proposed act seeks to create thousands more safe parking spots while enhancing existing areas. It holds broad industry support as Congress begins reauthorizing national highway safety programs.