ATA Women In Motion Takes Truck Parking and Driver Issues to Capitol Hill

ATA's Women In Motion Council met with lawmakers in Washington, D.C., to discuss truck parking, infrastructure funding, restroom access, and other priorities affecting the trucking industry.

Truck parking, restroom access, independent contractor protections, and infrastructure funding were among the trucking issues discussed with lawmakers this month as members of the American Trucking Associations’ Women In Motion Council traveled to Washington, D.C., for the organization’s annual Call on Washington.

The event brought together 32 women from 14 states representing motor carriers, suppliers, and other transportation businesses for three days of meetings with members of Congress, congressional staff, and federal officials.

According to ATA, the discussions centered on policies affecting professional truck drivers, freight transportation, and the industry’s long-term workforce.

Truck Parking Remained a Key Topic

One of the primary issues raised during meetings on Capitol Hill was the continued shortage of safe truck parking.

Women In Motion members also encouraged lawmakers to support a long-term surface transportation reauthorization bill, protect independent contractor opportunities, improve restroom access for truck drivers, and address staged vehicle crashes that contribute to rising insurance costs throughout the trucking industry.

The group also discussed the importance of continued investment in transportation infrastructure and regulatory policies that support freight movement across the country.

Meetings Included Federal Agencies and Members of Congress

The council’s schedule included a regulatory briefing from Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Administrator Derek Barrs and a meeting with Acting Department of Labor Secretary Keith Sonderling.

Members also met individually with lawmakers, including Senators Joni Ernst of Iowa, Todd Young of Indiana, and John Boozman of Arkansas, along with Representatives Adelita Grijalva of Arizona, Steve Womack of Arkansas, and Mike Collins of Georgia.

Cait Hone, director of Women In Motion, said bringing industry professionals directly into discussions with policymakers gives lawmakers a better understanding of the challenges facing trucking.

“Our members brought real-world perspectives to Capitol Hill and highlighted practical solutions that would boost safety, strengthen the workforce, and support an industry that Americans depend on every day,” Hone said.

Annual Advocacy Event Continues to Grow

This year marked the third Call on Washington organized by Women In Motion.

ATA said the annual event gives women from across the trucking industry an opportunity to speak directly with elected officials about issues affecting carriers, professional drivers, and businesses that support the freight industry.

Women In Motion was established by ATA to encourage leadership and professional development for women working throughout trucking. Its membership includes truck drivers, technicians, human resources professionals, executives, suppliers, and other industry professionals.