California used to have a ban on food trucks at highway rest stops...
But due to the coronavirus pandemic and the heightened need for grocery stores to stay stocked, Caltrans announced on Friday that Gov. Gavin Newsom had lifted the state ban. Food trucks will now be allowed at all 86 rest stops in California, in order to better provide highway truck drivers and motorists with access to food.
“Helping our truckers and facilitating the movement of essential goods during the COVID-19 crisis is a priority,” Caltrans Director Toks Omishakin said in a statement.
The lifted ban was part of an executive order issued by Gov. Newsom on Thursday.
“We hope this gives truckers more food options to keep them and the economy moving,” Omishakin added. “We also hope this provides additional business opportunities for food trucks hit hard by stay-at-home health orders.”
Food-truck owners must first apply for a permit from Caltrans in order to serve at rest stops, and once approved, the permits are only valid through June 15. And of course, all food trucks must follow state orders and safe social distancing while operating.
Both the Federal Highway Administration and the California Trucking Association were happy with the decision to temporarily lift the state ban.
“Access to a warm meal is as essential as the truckers on our roads who continue to transport basic necessities, medical supplies and emergency equipment to communities across the state,” Shawn Yadon, chief executive officer for the California Trucking Assn. said.
Check out more details on the Los Angeles Times.