New Hope as the Trucker Bathroom Access Act is Revisited

Trucker Bathroom Access Act Reintroduced to Support Drivers on the Road

Representatives Troy E. Nehls (R-TX) and Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) have reintroduced the Trucker Bathroom Access Act. The bill was announced on March 31st, 2025. It aims to ensure truck drivers have access to restrooms while picking up or delivering freight in the U.S.

The bill is bipartisan. It brings together leaders from both parties to support truckers who spend long hours on the road.

Ensuring Trucker Access Without Extra Burdens on Businesses

This legislation does not require businesses to build new restrooms. It simply says that if a company already provides restrooms to employees or customers, then truck drivers must be allowed to use them too.

This is the third time Nehls and Houlahan have introduced this bill. They brought it forward during both the 117th and 118th sessions of Congress. Now, they are trying again with more support behind them.

The issue of restroom access has grown more urgent. Lawmakers and industry leaders are looking for ways to fix retention issues and improve working conditions.

Why Restroom Access Matters for Truckers

Truckers often wait for hours at loading docks. These delays usually happen at places where public restrooms are not nearby. Drivers work on strict delivery schedules and likely will not have time to stop elsewhere.

Not being able to use the restroom when needed can affect a driver’s health. It can lead to dehydration, urinary tract infections, and other serious problems. For women drivers, the situation can be even harder due to limited privacy and hygiene options.

This bill is not just about comfort. It’s about protecting truckers’ health, dignity, safety, and basic needs.

Leaders in Congress Push for Change

“Truckers are this nation’s backbone,” said Rep. Nehls. “They keep our country moving and should have access to bathroom facilities while they are on the road—it’s common sense.”

Rep. Houlahan added, “As female drivers are increasingly filling essential trucking positions, they face a lack of restroom access while making deliveries and pickups. This bipartisan legislation helps break down a systemic barrier that has kept women out of the industry.”

Broad Bipartisan Support and Industry Backing

The bill already has support from both sides of the aisle. Original cosponsors include Reps. Brian Babin (R-TX) and Hillary Scholten (D-MI).

Many key groups in the trucking industry are backing this bill. That includes the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA), American Trucking Associations (ATA), Women In Trucking Association, She Trucking, and the Teamsters.

Todd Spencer, president of OOIDA, said the issue affects drivers every day. “OOIDA and our 150,000 members thank Representatives Nehls and Houlahan for showing tremendous leadership on this issue,” Spencer said.

Chris Spear, President and CEO of ATA, said restroom access is about more than convenience. “This is about ensuring the dignity of drivers and supporting the men and women who do the heavy lifting to provide for everyone in this country.”

Real Stories From the Road

Sharae Moore, Founder and CEO of She Trucking, spoke from experience. “Time-sensitive loads, heavy traffic, unpredictable weather, and limited truck parking often make it nearly impossible for drivers to find necessary restroom facilities when they need them,” she said.

Jennifer Hedrick, President and CEO of Women In Trucking, said better restroom access helps more women enter trucking. “Changes like these encourage more women to enter the trucking profession and boost the safety, security, and efficiency of our supply chain.”

How the Trucker Bathroom Access Act Would Be Enforced

Drivers may wonder what happens if a business refuses access. Right now, enforcement details are still being developed. But lawmakers are expected to add more guidance if the bill becomes law.

That could include signs showing restroom access, penalties for violations, or ways for drivers to report problems.

If passed, the bill will likely lead to new rules to make sure it has real impact on the job.

What Truckers Can Do to Support the Bill

Truckers who want to support the bill can contact their elected officials. Sharing personal stories with lawmakers or on social media can help raise awareness.

If a bill number is released, truckers can mention it when they reach out. Groups like OOIDA and Women In Trucking are also encouraging drivers to stay involved as the bill moves forward.

Previous Efforts To Pass the Trucker Bathroom Access Act

This is not the first time the bill has been introduced. Nehls and Houlahan tried in both 2021 and 2023. But earlier versions failed to move forward.

One reason is that the issue didn’t get enough attention outside the trucking industry. There also wasn’t enough pressure on lawmakers to act.

This time, there’s more support. Supply chain issues and driver retention have made working conditions a bigger topic in Washington. Industry groups are working together to push for real changes.

A Push for Commonsense Change

Restroom access may seem simple, but it affects thousands of truckers every day. The Trucker Bathroom Access Act aims to fix this problem with a clear solution.

The bill doesn’t add burdens for businesses. It just ensures that drivers are treated with the same respect as other workers.

If passed, the law could help keep more drivers in the industry. It could also open the door for more women to join the workforce.

For many, it’s not just a policy issue. It’s about basic human dignity for the people who keep the country running.