Washington, D.C. — Rep. Chris Pappas, D‑N.H., officially joined as a co‑sponsor of the Trucker Bathroom Access Act (HR3869) last week, bringing bipartisan support to a bill that could ease a daily hardship for CDL‑A drivers and owner‑operators across the nation.

The legislation, first introduced by Rep. Troy Nehls, R‑Texas, requires any shipper or receiver location that provides restroom facilities to customers or employees to extend that same access to truck drivers during deliveries or pickups. The act does not mandate new construction; it simply mandates that existing facilities open their restrooms to drivers who are loading or unloading cargo. Nehls, who has championed the bill since the previous congressional session, described the measure as a “no‑brainer” because it imposes no cost on businesses.

Last year, a House hearing revealed that lobbyists and trade associations have actively tried to stall the bill. Nehls warned, “I just want to put on the record to all the lobbyists and trade associations that are trying to sink this bill, ‘I really don’t care what you think on this issue,’” he said. He added a stark analogy, asking lobbyists to imagine being forced to relieve themselves outdoors because no restroom was available inside a committee room. The bill’s supporters say that denying truckers restroom access—especially after the pandemic surge in 2020—has become a widespread, unacceptable practice that undermines driver safety and health.

What This Means for Drivers

For CDL‑A drivers, the act would mean fewer stops at roadside rest areas and a smoother, safer delivery schedule. Owner‑operators could reduce downtime during loading and unloading, potentially boosting daily mileage and earnings. Fleet managers would no longer face the risk of driver fatigue or health complaints linked to prolonged waiting for restroom access. The legislation would also align with FMCSA regulations that emphasize driver health and safety, ensuring that truckers are not forced to compromise their well‑being on the road.

Industry Reaction

The Owner‑Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA), the Women in Trucking Association, and the American Trucking Association (ATA) have all voiced support for HR3869. OOIDA’s statement reads, “If a business provides restroom access to customers or employees, they should provide the same access to truck drivers who are loading or unloading cargo at the business.” These groups are urging drivers to visit OOIDA’s Fighting For Truckers website to lobby their legislators and keep the momentum alive. Trucking companies hiring for OTR truck driver positions are watching the bill closely, noting that better driver amenities could improve retention and attract more truck driver jobs for experienced CDL‑A drivers.

Key Points

• HR3869 requires existing restrooms at customer sites to be open to truck drivers during deliveries.
• Rep. Chris Pappas’ co‑sponsorship brings the total to six, evenly split between Republicans and Democrats.
• The bill imposes no construction costs on businesses, making it a zero‑expense solution.
• Lobbyists have attempted to block the act, prompting a congressional hearing where Rep. Nehls publicly challenged their influence.

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