U.S. Rep. Mike Bost (R-IL) on March 29 led several colleagues in proposing bicameral, bipartisan legislation that would provide dedicated federal funding to expand commercial truck parking capacity, addressing a critical shortage in available parking for semis and large commercial trucks.
“This is a matter of public safety and I’m committed to do all I can to drive this legislation over the finish line,” said Rep. Bost, who sponsored the Truck Parking Safety Improvement Act, H.R. 2367, with seven original cosponsors, including U.S. Reps. Nancy Mace (R-SC), Pete Stauber (R-MN), and Angie Craig (D-MN).
If enacted, H.R. 2367 would establish a competitive grant program at the U.S. Department of Transportation for projects for commercial motor vehicle parking, according to the congressional record bill summary.
“I grew up in a family trucking business,” said Rep. 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,” he said, “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.”
U.S. Sens. Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) on March 29 introduced the same-named S. 1034 in their chamber.
The bill is supported by the American Trucking Associations, the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association, and the Institute for Safer Trucking.