Most people never have to ask permission to use a restroom at work. Too many truck drivers do – and get told no.
New Hampshire is trying to change that.
Truck drivers keep shelves stocked and freight moving. But many are still turned away when they ask to use a restroom while making a delivery.
Washington was the first state to tackle the problem. A 2023 law requires shippers, receivers, and terminal operators to provide restroom access.
A federal bill would do the same across the country.
The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association has long backed what it calls a common-sense fix: Don’t force truck drivers to hunt for a restroom while they’re doing their jobs.
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 law gives truckers basic dignity
New Hampshire Gov. Kelly Ayotte signed a bill requiring businesses to let truck drivers use existing restrooms while making deliveries or pickups.
Supporters say too many businesses say “no” because they worry about liability. They add that some businesses turn truckers away simply because they don’t want them using their facilities.
Rep. Henry Giasson, R-Goffstown, said restroom access is one of the biggest concerns he hears from female truck drivers.
He said truckers help keep businesses running, and the least that can be done is to let them use a restroom.
The law covers most public-facing businesses, as well as shippers, receivers, factories, warehouses, distribution centers, and other loading sites.
Businesses won’t have to build new restrooms. They only have to allow access to restrooms already available to employees or customers.
Rep. Greg Hill, R-Merrimack, said it’s hard to believe a law was even needed.
“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 common-sense limits. Businesses can deny access only if allowing someone inside would create a health, safety, or security risk.
Fuel stations and restaurants with employee-only restrooms are still exempt.
The New Hampshire Motor Transport Association backed the bill. Spokesman Bob Sculley called it a matter of basic respect.
He said if a business has a restroom for workers or customers, truck drivers making deliveries should be able to use it too.
Truckers are tired of being told “no” when it comes to restroom access. New Hampshire lawmakers are closing in on a bill that would make that a thing of the past. https://t.co/CGuIeBtrqg pic.twitter.com/JesIdzwm4c
— Land Line Magazine (@Land_Line_Mag) May 6, 2026
Drayage truckers included
The new law also protects drayage truckers working in ports and rail yards.
Drivers must have access to safe restrooms and portable toilets where they are allowed to work.
Terminal operators must provide enough restrooms to handle demand. If long lines develop, more facilities must be added.
They must also provide parking so drivers have a safe place to stop while using the restroom.
The law takes effect in mid-August.
OOIDA: It’s a basic need
OOIDA says the new law fixes a problem truckers face every day.
Executive Vice President Lewie Pugh said using a restroom shouldn’t be a battle.
“But way too often, professional drivers are told no when they ask to use a restroom while picking up or delivering cargo,” Pugh said. LL
More Land Line coverage of New Hampshire news is available.
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