Trucking news and briefs for Monday, July 21, 2025:
DOT asks for public input on upcoming surface transportation reauthorization legislation
The Department of Transportation will accept public comments to gather feedback from transportation stakeholders on the upcoming surface transportation reauthorization legislation.
The current authorization for federal surface transportation programs is set to expire on Sept. 30, 2026.
“In preparation for the next surface transportation reauthorization bill, and to ensure that the public’s perspectives and ideas are considered, the Department of Transportation invites the public to provide ideas, comments, and information for consideration in the development of the next surface transportation authorizing legislation,” the DOT said in a Federal Register notice publishing Monday.
DOT Secretary Sean Duffy kicked off the surface transportation reauthorization effort Thursday with an event that brought together Congressional members and infrastructure stakeholders to foster collaboration on priorities ahead of Congress’s work on the next reauthorization, often referred to with the "highway bill" shorthand.
“Our mission is to build as quickly and as much as possible,” Duffy said. “So, we're working through a historic backlog as fast as possible to make sure we can get money out the door to all of you to make sure these projects are moving and moving quickly. With our money, we want you to build as fast, and we want to streamline the rules and regulations around what you do as much as possible.”
During his remarks Thursday, Duffy outlined President Donald Trump’s America is Building Again agenda. Truck parking was highlighted as one of many areas DOT is focusing on.
In seeking public feedback, DOT said it’s looking for comments from entities significantly affected by administrative actions of DOT including: state, local, and tribal governments; small businesses; consumers; non-governmental organizations; transportation system operators and service providers; and manufacturers and their trade associations.
These individuals and organizations “can provide valuable insight and suggestions to support the development of the next surface transportation reauthorization bill to address the nation’s most essential infrastructure needs,” DOT added. “As we approach reauthorization, DOT seeks to engage a broad range of stakeholders to assess what has worked, what needs improvement, and what new priorities should be included.”
The information gathered could help inform legislative priorities as Congress begins working toward a new highway bill.
“The reauthorization effort will focus on modernizing America’s infrastructure by improving safety, streamlining Federal processes, promoting economic growth, and strengthening partnerships,” DOT concluded in the notice.
Those interested in filing comments can do so here through Aug. 20.
Averitt donates $20K to Texas flood relief
In response to the recent flooding that has devastated parts of Texas, Averitt Charities has announced a $20,000 donation to Samaritan’s Purse to aid in ongoing relief and recovery efforts.
The donation from Averitt (CCJ Top 250, No. 24) will help provide emergency support to individuals and families affected by the widespread flooding.
“Our thoughts are with the many communities in Texas that are facing the aftermath of this disaster,” said Gary Sasser, chairman and chief executive officer at Averitt. “While none of our facilities or associates have been directly impacted at this time, we know that many people in the region are hurting. Through this contribution, we hope to help bring some measure of comfort and assistance as recovery continues.”
Samaritan’s Purse is a relief organization that mobilizes volunteers and resources to assist areas hit by natural disasters.
Averitt Charities is a non-profit organization funded by voluntary associate contributions as well as company matches in honor of associate achievements, life events and milestones. By supporting organizations like Samaritan’s Purse, Averitt Charities seeks to make a positive impact in the lives of those facing crisis and hardship.
