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DOT Victim and Survivor Advocate Act
2/28/2025, 5:23 AM
Summary of Bill HR 851
The bill outlines the duties of the National Roadway Safety Advocate, which include conducting research on roadway safety issues, developing and implementing safety programs, and collaborating with state and local governments to improve roadway safety. The advocate would also be tasked with raising public awareness about the importance of safe driving practices and advocating for policies that enhance roadway safety.
In addition to establishing the position of National Roadway Safety Advocate, the bill also includes provisions for funding the advocate's office and ensuring that the advocate has the resources necessary to carry out their duties effectively. Overall, Bill 119 HR 851 seeks to prioritize roadway safety and reduce the number of accidents and fatalities on our nation's roads. By creating the position of National Roadway Safety Advocate, the bill aims to improve safety for all drivers, passengers, and pedestrians.
Congressional Summary of HR 851
DOT Victim and Survivor Advocate Act
This bill directs the Department of Transportation (DOT) to establish the position of National Roadway Safety Advocate to work directly with victims and survivors of road crashes and their families (i.e., stakeholders).
Specifically, the purposes of the advocate are to (1) document and communicate recommendations from stakeholders to DOT on the needs, objectives, plans, approaches, content, and accomplishments of DOT's roadway safety programs and activities; and (2) serve as a resource and point of contact for stakeholders on relevant roadway safety issues.
The bill specifies that the advocate position must be filled by a career appointment.
The bill prohibits the advocate from taking certain actions, such as
- creating or authorizing DOT policies, priorities, or activities; or
- disclosing or discussing any enforcement matters that are under investigation or in litigation.
The advocate must submit an annual report to DOT highlighting systemic issues relating to roadway safety based on information provided by stakeholders. The report must include recommendations on how to remedy the issues.
Read the Full Bill
Current Status of Bill HR 851
Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 851
Total Number of Sponsors
3Democrat Sponsors
3Republican Sponsors
0Unaffiliated Sponsors
0Total Number of Cosponsors
0Democrat Cosponsors
0Republican Cosponsors
0Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 851
Primary Policy Focus
Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 851
Comments
Veronica Blackwell
10 months ago
I don't think this is a good idea. It's just gonna make things more complicated.
