As Congress gears up for the next major surface transportation funding bill, a recent hearing before the House Committee on Transportation & Infrastructure revealed deep divides within the trucking industry. On March 26, representatives from key organizations including the Truckload Carriers Association (TCA), Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA), the Shippers Coalition, Teamsters, and the American Farm Bureau Federation testified on policy priorities such as interstate weight limits and the truck parking shortage.
Debate Over Interstate Truck Weight Limits
One of the most hotly contested issues during the hearing was whether to raise the federal weight limits for trucks traveling on the Interstate Highway System. Currently, federal law caps gross vehicle weight (GVW) at 80,000 pounds, with axle limits set at 20,000 pounds for a single axle and 34,000 for tandem axles. However, state regulations vary significantly, with some states—like Michigan—allowing up to 164,000 pounds for specific industries.
The Shippers Coalition, represented by Ryan Lindsey of CRH, argued that the 80,000-pound limit is outdated and inefficient, especially when many off-interstate roads already permit higher weights. Lindsey proposed a pilot program to raise the federal weight limit to 91,000 pounds with the addition of a sixth axle to ensure safety.
Lindsey emphasized that improving freight efficiency must be balanced with safety but suggested the current weight limits were deterring shippers from using interstates entirely. He called for Congress to support an opt-in pilot to test the increased limits under controlled conditions.
However, the proposal drew sharp criticism from TCA, OOIDA, and the Teamsters. These groups voiced strong opposition, warning that heavier trucks could increase roadway wear, reduce safety, and burden drivers with additional operational challenges. John Elliot of Load One and Lewie Pugh of OOIDA dismissed the idea that increasing size and weight improves safety, instead calling such proposals detrimental to both truckers and the motoring public.
Truck Parking Crisis Remains a Top Concern
Another major issue discussed during the hearing was the ongoing truck parking shortage, which has been a persistent concern for drivers. Pugh highlighted the dangerous reality that only one safe parking space exists for every 11 trucks on U.S. roads, making it difficult for drivers to comply with hours-of-service rules and rest safely.
TCA’s John Elliot stressed the need for investment in public rest areas and parking infrastructure, noting that many rest stops remain closed due to funding shortfalls. Both TCA and OOIDA urged Congress to prioritize parking access in the upcoming legislation, emphasizing that safe, reliable parking is essential to driver well-being and highway safety.
With the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act set to expire in 2026, the next funding bill offers a crucial opportunity for the trucking industry to shape future policy. However, as this hearing demonstrated, achieving consensus among stakeholders remains a complex challenge.
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