Most workers can use a restroom without asking. Too many truck drivers still have to ask. Some are told “no.”
Truckers keep shelves stocked. They keep freight moving. Yet some are denied a restroom while picking up or delivering a load.
A basic need, not a special favor
Washington was the first state to take on the problem. A 2023 law requires shippers, receivers and terminal operators to provide restroom access.
Now, a federal bill would bring those protections to truck drivers across the country.
The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association has supported what it calls a commonsense solution for years.
Truck drivers should not have to search for a restroom while doing the job that keeps America moving.
Truckers should never have to ‘hold it’ because they aren’t allowed to use the restroom. It’s a matter of basic dignity. 🚛🚻 For months, OOIDA worked with @RepHoulahan and @RepTroyNehls to get restroom access into the new highway bill. THANK YOU for listening to our members!… pic.twitter.com/KTXZDt1MgR
— Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (@OOIDA) May 21, 2026
New Hampshire says enough
Starting Tuesday, Aug. 11, businesses in New Hampshire can no longer turn truck drivers away from restrooms.
Gov. Kelly Ayotte signed a law requiring businesses to allow truckers to use existing restrooms during deliveries and pickups.
Supporters said too many drivers are denied access. Others simply do not want truck drivers using their facilities.
Rep. Henry Giasson, R-Goffstown, said restroom access is one of the biggest concerns he hears from female truck drivers.
Truckers help keep businesses running. Giasson said allowing them to use a restroom is the least businesses can do.
The law applies to most public-facing businesses. It also covers shippers, receivers, factories, warehouses, distribution centers and other loading sites.
Businesses will not have to build new restrooms. They only have to allow truck drivers to use restrooms already available to workers or customers.
Rep. Greg Hill, R-Merrimack, said it is hard to believe lawmakers had to step in.
“I just can’t believe in this day and age that someone is refusing restrooms to another person. I think it’s important that we send a strong signal with this one,” Hill said.
The law includes limits to protect businesses.
Access can be denied if allowing a driver inside would create a health, safety or security risk.
Fuel stations and restaurants with employee-only restrooms are still exempt.
It’s crazy that restroom access keeps popping up, but here we are.
New Hampshire just passed a law giving truck drivers a basic human right they are too often denied.
👉 https://t.co/tFWrgDOQSZ pic.twitter.com/RXCXBztTu0— Land Line Magazine (@Land_Line_Mag) June 23, 2026
Truckers deserve basic respect
The New Hampshire Motor Transport Association supported the bill.
Bob Sculley is the group’s president. He called restroom access a matter of basic respect.
If a business provides a restroom for employees or customers, he said truck drivers making deliveries should be able to use it too.
OOIDA said the law addresses a problem drivers face every day.
Executive Vice President Lewie Pugh said using a restroom should not turn into a fight.
“But way too often, professional drivers are told no when they ask to use a restroom while picking up or delivering cargo,” Pugh said.
Drayage truckers are included
The new law also protects drayage truck drivers working at ports and rail yards.
Drivers must have access to safe restrooms or portable toilets where they are allowed to work.
Terminal operators must provide enough facilities to meet demand.
If long restroom lines become a problem, more facilities must be added.
Operators must also provide parking so drivers have a safe place to stop while using the restroom. LL
More Land Line coverage of New Hampshire news is available.
Credit: Source link
