Understanding the Truck Parking Safety Improvement Act: What it Means for the Trucking Industry

In March of 2023, Congress reintroduced a bill known as the Truck Parking Safety Improvement Act. This legislation has ramifications that will greatly impact the trucking industry, and is evidence of a significant problem affecting both truck drivers and our national supply chain. Here’s what you need to know about the Truck Parking Safety Improvement Act:

What is the Truck Parking Safety Improvement Act?

The Truck Parking Safety Improvement Act is designed to help increase parking opportunities for truck drivers. The bill authorizes the use of $755 million over a 4-year period to create more safe parking for truck drivers. This money will be dispersed through a grant program, and used to adapt existing weigh stations and rest areas into truck parking, in addition to creating new parking facilities for truck drivers.

The bill was originally introduced in December of 2022 by Senators Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) and Mike Kelly (D-AZ). The bill has received full support in both houses of Congress, across both parties, and from notable organizations such as the American Trucking Association (ATA) and the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA).

Why it’s Needed

Unfortunately, the lack of sufficient parking for commercial trucks has become a significant problem in recent years. The lack of sufficient parking spots for truck drivers has had impacts nationwide and has exacerbated many supply chain issues throughout the United States.

Not only does the lack of sufficient parking cause problems for truck drivers and consumers, it also makes the roads a more dangerous place to drive. Because of the lack of parking, many truck drivers are forced to drive with fewer breaks and less sleep, which can lead to accidents, injuries, and even increased deaths.

In the United States, 70% of products are transported by truck. However, there is currently only one parking spot per eleven trucks on the road, forcing many truck drivers to break federal regulations governing safe driving practices. According to recent data, 98% of truck drivers regularly experience difficulty finding a place to park, making it impossible to take necessary rest breaks.

What it Means for Truck Drivers

The Truck Parking Safety Improvement Act will greatly benefit the truck industry. Truck drivers will have better working conditions and will be able to take needed rest breaks, which will contribute to greater safety on the roads and fewer supply chain issues.

Reach Out to Fleet Parking Solutions Today

While the goal of the Truck Parking Safety Improvement Act is to increase truck parking across the United States, this implementation will take several years, and many truck drivers are in need of relief right now. If you’re looking for a solution now, Fleet Parking Solutions’ outdoor truck parking and other services can help. Fleet Parking Solutions is committed to providing solutions for the trucking industry, contributing to safer roads, and supporting truck drivers. Reach out to us today to learn more about how we can support the safety and well-being of your truck drivers.