DOT Gives Extra Time for Highway Bill Comment Period

DOT Extends Comment Period for Highway Bill Input

Request for Information 

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) published a Request for Information (RFI) on July 21, 2025. The purpose is to gather input that will shape the next highway bill.

The current surface transportation authorization expires on September 30, 2026. DOT said it wants to hear from the public well in advance. The agency explained that early feedback will help guide the future of the nation’s transportation system.

The RFI invited comments from governments, small businesses, community groups, and the trucking industry. A broad range of input will help meet the country’s most urgent infrastructure needs.

The first deadline for comments was set for August 20, 2025. The new deadline is September 8, 2025. 

DOT Seeks Public Feedback on Priorities

The agency highlighted several themes in the RFI.

• Safety: Feedback is sought on bridge safety, protection of workers and pedestrians, truck parking shortages, and new technologies such as autonomous vehicles.
• Faster project delivery: the agency is looking at reforming the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), streamlining permits, and adopting new technology to reduce delays.
• Economic growth: The agency asked for ideas that expand highway and transit capacity, reduce congestion, and promote private investment. These issues are closely linked to the needs of the trucking industry.
• Partnerships: DOT stressed stronger collaboration with states, local governments, and other stakeholders. Research and efficiency gains were also noted as priorities.

Proposals that identify changes to law would be especially helpful. All responses will be posted publicly at regulations.gov.

DOT Extends Comment Deadline

On August 20, 2025, DOT issued a notice extending the comment period. Several groups requested more time to prepare their responses.

The new deadline is September 8, 2025. The agency explained that the extension will allow for more complete input from stakeholders.

Comments can still be submitted online through regulations.gov under docket number DOT-OST-2025-0468. They may also be sent by email to STR2026@dot.gov or mailed to the Dockets Operation office in Washington, D.C.

Looking Ahead at the Highway Bill

The agency will review all comments after the new deadline. The input will be used to guide the next highway bill.

The bill will set the framework for federal programs on highways, freight systems, transit, and transportation safety. For trucking, the highway bill is especially important. It addresses issues such as truck parking, road safety, congestion, and freight efficiency.

By extending the comment period, the agency hopes to provide trucking companies, drivers, state agencies, and community groups more time to share their views. These perspectives will help shape national transportation policy for years to come.

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