WASHINGTON -- An agreement has been reached in the U.S. Senate to move a transportation bill that includes a provision allowing the "commercialization" of rest stop areas on interstate highways, according to Sandra T. Larson, senior director and counsel, government affairs for the National Automatic Merchandising Association.
Larson explained that the measure, SB 1813, contains an amendment, 1742, rescinding the 1960 law prohibiting states from offering commercial services at rest areas along the Interstate Highway System. This "Portman Amendment" was introduced by Sen. Robert Portman (R-OH).
"Commercialization of rest stops could diminish vending at rest stops -- which could negatively impact your businesses," Larson warned operators. The Senate is scheduled to consider this bill, and Amendment 1742, today, and she urges everyone to contact their Senators at once to express opposition to Amendment 1742 in SB 1813.
NAMA has prepared an email, available here.
Operators also may also visit NAMAVoice.org to send the email.
