Surface Transportation Investment Act of 2021

To authorize elements of the Department of Transportation, and for other purposes. 1. Short title; table of contents (a) Short title This Act may be cited as the Surface Transportation Investment Act of 2021 (b) Table of contents The table of contents for this Act is as follows: Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents. Sec. 2. Definitions. TITLE I—Multimodal and freight transportation Subtitle A—Multimodal freight policy Sec. 1101. Office of Multimodal Freight Infrastructure and Policy. Sec. 1102. Updates to National Freight Plan. Sec. 1103. State collaboration with National Multimodal Freight Network. Sec. 1104. Improving State freight plans. Sec. 1105. Implementation of National Multimodal Freight Network. Sec. 1106. Multi-State freight corridor planning. Subtitle B—Multimodal investment Sec. 1201. National infrastructure project assistance. Sec. 1202. Local and regional project assistance. Sec. 1203. National culvert removal, replacement, and restoration grant program. Sec. 1204. Nationally significant multimodal freight projects. Sec. 1205. National multimodal cooperative freight research program. Sec. 1206. Rural and Tribal infrastructure advancement. Subtitle C—Railroad rehabilitation and improvement financing reforms Sec. 1301. RRIF codification and reforms. Sec. 1302. Substantive criteria and standards. Sec. 1303. Semiannual report on transit-oriented development eligibility. TITLE II—Rail Sec. 2001. Short title. Subtitle A—Authorization of appropriations Sec. 2101. Grants to Amtrak. Sec. 2102. Federal Railroad Administration. Sec. 2103. Consolidated rail infrastructure and safety improvements grants. Sec. 2104. Railroad Crossing Elimination Program. Sec. 2105. Restoration and enhancement grants. Sec. 2106. Federal-State partnership for intercity passenger rail grants. Sec. 2107. Amtrak Office of Inspector General. Subtitle B—Amtrak reforms Sec. 2201. Amtrak findings, mission, and goals. Sec. 2202. Composition of Amtrak’s Board of Directors. Sec. 2203. Station agents. Sec. 2204. Increasing oversight of changes to Amtrak long-distance routes and other intercity services. Sec. 2205. Improved oversight of Amtrak accounting. Sec. 2206. Improved oversight of Amtrak spending. Sec. 2207. Increasing service line and asset line plan transparency. Sec. 2208. Passenger experience enhancement. Sec. 2209. Amtrak smoking policy. Sec. 2210. Protecting Amtrak routes through rural communities. Sec. 2211. State-Supported Route Committee. Sec. 2212. Enhancing cross border service. Sec. 2213. Creating quality jobs. Subtitle C—Intercity passenger rail policy Sec. 2301. Northeast Corridor planning. Sec. 2302. Northeast Corridor Commission. Sec. 2303. Consolidated rail infrastructure and safety improvements. Sec. 2304. Restoration and enhancement grants. Sec. 2305. Railroad Crossing Elimination Program. Sec. 2306. Interstate rail compacts. Sec. 2307. Federal-State partnership for intercity passenger rail grants. Sec. 2308. Corridor Identification and Development Program. Sec. 2309. Surface Transportation Board Passenger Rail Program. Sec. 2310. Railroad rights-of-way. Subtitle D—Rail safety Sec. 2401. Railway-highway crossings program evaluation. Sec. 2402. Grade crossing accident prediction model. Sec. 2403. Periodic updates to highway-rail crossing reports and plans. Sec. 2404. Blocked crossing portal. Sec. 2405. Data accessibility. Sec. 2406. Emergency lighting. Sec. 2407. Comprehensive rail safety review of Amtrak. Sec. 2408. Completion of hours of service and fatigue studies. Sec. 2409. Positive train control study. Sec. 2410. Operating crew member training, qualification, and certification. Sec. 2411. Transparency and safety. Sec. 2412. Research and development. Sec. 2413. Rail Research and Development Center of Excellence. Sec. 2414. Quarterly report on positive train control system performance. Sec. 2415. Speed limit action plans. Sec. 2416. New passenger service pre-revenue safety validation plan. Sec. 2417. Federal Railroad Administration accident and incident investigations. Sec. 2418. Civil penalty enforcement authority. Sec. 2419. Advancing safety and innovative technology. Sec. 2420. Passenger rail vehicle occupant protection systems. Sec. 2421. Federal Railroad Administration safety reporting. Sec. 2422. National Academies study on trains longer than 7,500 feet. Sec. 2423. High-speed train noise emissions. Sec. 2424. Critical incident stress plans. TITLE III—Motor carrier safety Sec. 3001. Authorization of appropriations. Sec. 3002. Motor carrier safety advisory committee. Sec. 3003. Combating human trafficking. Sec. 3004. Immobilization grant program. Sec. 3005. Commercial motor vehicle enforcement training and support. Sec. 3006. Study of commercial motor vehicle crash causation. Sec. 3007. Promoting women in the trucking workforce. Sec. 3008. State inspection of passenger-carrying commercial motor vehicles. Sec. 3009. Truck Leasing Task Force. Sec. 3010. Automatic emergency braking. Sec. 3011. Underride protection. Sec. 3012. Providers of recreational activities. Sec. 3013. Amendments to regulations relating to transportation of household goods in interstate commerce. Sec. 3014. Improving Federal-State motor carrier safety enforcement coordination. Sec. 3015. Limousine research. Sec. 3016. National Consumer Complaint Database. Sec. 3017. Electronic logging device oversight. TITLE IV—Highway and motor vehicle safety Subtitle A—Highway traffic safety Sec. 4101. Authorization of appropriations. Sec. 4102. Highway safety programs. Sec. 4103. Highway safety research and development. Sec. 4104. High-visibility enforcement programs. Sec. 4105. National priority safety programs. Sec. 4106. Multiple substance-impaired driving prevention. Sec. 4107. Minimum penalties for repeat offenders for driving while intoxicated or driving under the influence. Sec. 4108. Crash data. Sec. 4109. Review of Move Over or Slow Down Law public awareness. Sec. 4110. Review of laws, safety measures, and technologies relating to school buses. Sec. 4111. Motorcyclist Advisory Council. Sec. 4112. Safe Streets and Roads for All grant program. Sec. 4113. Implementation of GAO recommendations. Subtitle B—Vehicle safety Sec. 4201. Authorization of appropriations. Sec. 4202. Recall completion. Sec. 4203. Recall engagement. Sec. 4204. Motor vehicle seat back safety standards. Sec. 4205. Automatic shutoff. Sec. 4206. Petitions by interested persons for standards and enforcement. Sec. 4207. Child safety seat accessibility study. Sec. 4208. Crash avoidance technology. Sec. 4209. Reduction of driver distraction. Sec. 4210. Rulemaking report. Sec. 4211. Global harmonization. Sec. 4212. Headlamps. Sec. 4213. New Car Assessment Program. Sec. 4214. Hood and bumper standards. Sec. 4215. Emergency medical services and 9–1–1. Sec. 4216. Early warning reporting. Sec. 4217. Improved vehicle safety databases. Sec. 4218. National Driver Register Advisory Committee repeal. Sec. 4219. Research on connected vehicle technology. Sec. 4220. Advanced impaired driving technology. TITLE V—Research and innovation Sec. 5001. Intelligent Transportation Systems Program Advisory Committee. Sec. 5002. Smart Community Resource Center. Sec. 5003. Federal support for local decisionmaking. Sec. 5004. Bureau of Transportation Statistics. Sec. 5005. Strengthening mobility and revolutionizing transportation grant program. Sec. 5006. Electric vehicle working group. Sec. 5007. Risk and system resilience. Sec. 5008. Coordination on emerging transportation technology. Sec. 5009. Interagency Infrastructure Permitting Improvement Center. Sec. 5010. Rural opportunities to use transportation for economic success initiative. Sec. 5011. Advanced transportation technologies deployment program. Sec. 5012. Safety data initiative. Sec. 5013. Advanced transportation research. Sec. 5014. Open research initiative. Sec. 5015. Transportation research and development 5-year strategic plan. Sec. 5016. Research planning modifications. Sec. 5017. Incorporation of Department of Transportation research. Sec. 5018. University transportation centers program. Sec. 5019. National travel and tourism infrastructure strategic plan. Sec. 5020. Local hiring preference for construction jobs. Sec. 5021. Transportation workforce development. Sec. 5022. Intermodal Transportation Advisory Board repeal. Sec. 5023. GAO cybersecurity recommendations. Sec. 5024. Volpe oversight. TITLE VI—Hazardous materials Sec. 6001. Authorization of appropriations. Sec. 6002. Assistance for local emergency response training grant program. Sec. 6003. Real-time emergency response information. 2. Definitions In this Act: (1) Department The term Department (2) Secretary The term Secretary I Multimodal and freight transportation A Multimodal freight policy 1101. Office of Multimodal Freight Infrastructure and Policy (a) In general Chapter 1 118. Office of Multimodal Freight Infrastructure and Policy (a) Definitions In this section: (1) Department The term Department (2) Freight office The term Freight Office (3) Secretary The term Secretary (b) Establishment The Secretary shall establish within the Department an Office of Multimodal Freight Infrastructure and Policy. (c) Purposes The purposes of the Freight Office shall be— (1) to carry out the national multimodal freight policy described in section 70101; (2) to administer and oversee certain multimodal freight grant programs within the Department in accordance with subsection (d); (3) to promote and facilitate the sharing of information between the private and public sectors with respect to freight issues; (4) to conduct research on improving multimodal freight mobility, and to oversee the freight research activities of the various agencies within the Department; (5) to assist cities and States in developing freight mobility and supply chain expertise; (6) to liaise and coordinate with other Federal departments and agencies; and (7) to carry out other duties, as prescribed by the Secretary. (d) Administration of policies and programs The Freight Office shall— (1) develop and manage— (A) the national freight strategic plan described in section 70102; and (B) the National Multimodal Freight Network established under section 70103; (2) (A) oversee the development and updating of the State freight plans described in section 70202; and (B) provide guidance or best practices relating to the development and updating of State freight plans under that section; (3) (A) administer multimodal freight grant programs, including multimodal freight grants established under section 117 of title 23; and (B) establish procedures for analyzing and evaluating applications for grants under those programs; (4) assist States in the establishment of— (A) State freight advisory committees under section 70201; and (B) multi-State freight mobility compacts under section 70204; and (5) provide to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics input regarding freight data and planning tools. (e) Assistant Secretary (1) In general The Freight Office shall be headed by an Assistant Secretary for Multimodal Freight, who shall— (A) be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate; and (B) have professional standing and demonstrated knowledge in the field of freight transportation. (2) Duties The Assistant Secretary shall— (A) report to the Under Secretary of Transportation for Policy; (B) be responsible for the management and oversight of the activities, decisions, operations, and personnel of the Freight Office; (C) work with the modal administrations of the Department to encourage multimodal collaboration; and (D) carry out such additional duties as the Secretary may prescribe. (f) Consolidation and elimination of duplicative offices (1) Consolidation of offices and office functions The Secretary may consolidate into the Freight Office any office or office function within the Department that the Secretary determines has duties, responsibilities, resources, or expertise that support the purposes of the Freight Office. (2) Elimination of offices The Secretary may eliminate any office within the Department if the Secretary determines that— (A) the purposes of the office are duplicative of the purposes of the Freight Office; (B) the office or the functions of the office have been substantially consolidated with the Freight Office pursuant to paragraph (1); (C) the elimination of the office will not adversely affect the requirements of the Secretary under any Federal law; and (D) the elimination of the office will improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the programs and functions conducted by the office. (g) Staffing and budgetary resources (1) In general The Secretary shall ensure that the Freight Office is adequately staffed and funded. (2) Staffing (A) Transfer of positions to Freight Office Subject to subparagraph (B), the Secretary may transfer to the Freight Office any position within any other office of the Department if the Secretary determines that the position is necessary to carry out the purposes of the Freight Office. (B) Requirement If the Secretary transfers a position to the Freight Office pursuant to subparagraph (A), the Secretary, in coordination with the appropriate modal administration of the Department, shall ensure that the transfer of the position does not adversely affect the requirements of the modal administration under any Federal law. (3) Budgetary resources (A) Transfer of funds from consolidated or eliminated offices (i) In general To carry out the purposes of the Freight Office, the Secretary may transfer to the Freight Office from any office or office function that is consolidated or eliminated under subsection (f) any funds allocated for the consolidated or eliminated office or office function. (ii) Retransfer Any portion of any funds or limitations of obligations transferred to the Freight Office pursuant to clause (i) may be transferred back to, and merged with, the original account. (B) Transfer of funds allocated for administrative costs (i) In general The Secretary may transfer to the Freight Office any funds allocated for the administrative costs of the programs referred to in subsection (d)(3). (ii) Retransfer Any portion of any funds or limitations of obligations transferred to the Freight Office pursuant to clause (i) may be transferred back to, and merged with, the original account. (h) Website (1) Description of Freight Office The Secretary shall make publicly available on the website of the Department a description of the Freight Office, including a description of— (A) the programs managed or made available by the Freight Office; and (B) the eligibility requirements for those programs. (2) Clearinghouse The Secretary may establish a clearinghouse for tools, templates, guidance, and best practices on a page of the website of the Department that supports the purposes of this section. (i) Notification to Congress Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this section, and not less frequently than once every 180 days thereafter until the date on which the Secretary determines that the requirements of this section have been met, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives a notification that— (1) describes— (A) the programs and activities administered or overseen by the Freight Office; and (B) the status of those programs and activities; (2) identifies— (A) the number of employees working in the Freight Office as of the date of the notification; and (B) the total number of employees expected to join the Freight Office to support the programs and activities described in paragraph (1); (3) (A) indicates whether the Secretary has consolidated into the Freight Office any office or office function pursuant to subsection (f)(1); and (B) if the Secretary has so consolidated such an office or function, describes the rationale for the consolidation; (4) (A) indicates whether the Secretary has eliminated any office pursuant to subsection (f)(2); and (B) if the Secretary has so eliminated such an office, describes the rationale for the elimination; (5) describes any other actions carried out by the Secretary to implement this section; and (6) describes any recommendations of the Secretary for legislation that may be needed to further implement this section. (j) Savings provisions (1) Effect on other law Except as otherwise provided in this section, nothing in this section alters or affects any law (including regulations) with respect to a program referred to in subsection (d). (2) Effect on responsibilities of other agencies Except as otherwise provided in this section, nothing in this section abrogates the responsibilities of any agency, operating administration, or office within the Department that is otherwise charged by law (including regulations) with any aspect of program administration, oversight, or project approval or implementation with respect to a program or project subject to the responsibilities of the Freight Office under this section. (3) Effect on pending applications Nothing in this section affects any pending application under a program referred to in subsection (d) that was received by the Secretary on or before the date of enactment of this section. (k) Authorization of appropriations There are authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary such sums as are necessary to carry out this section. . (b) Clerical amendment The analysis for chapter 1 section 117 118. Office of Multimodal Freight Infrastructure and Policy. . (c) Conforming amendments (1) Section 70101(c) of title 49, United States Code, is amended, in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking Under Secretary of Transportation for Policy Assistant Secretary for Multimodal Freight (2) Section 70102 of title 49, United States Code, is amended— (A) in subsection (a), in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking Not later the Under Secretary of Transportation for Policy The Assistant Secretary for Multimodal Freight (referred to in this section as the Assistant Secretary (B) in subsection (b)(4), in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking Under Secretary Assistant Secretary (C) in subsection (c), by striking Under Secretary Assistant Secretary (D) in subsection (d), in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking Under Secretary Assistant Secretary (3) Section 70103 of title 49, United States Code, is amended— (A) in subsection (a), in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking Under Secretary of Transportation for Policy Assistant Secretary for Multimodal Freight (referred to in this section as the Assistant Secretary (B) by striking subsection (b); (C) by redesignating subsections (c) and (d) as subsections (b) and (c), respectively; (D) in subsection (b) (as so redesignated)— (i) in the subsection heading, by striking Final Network Designation of National Multimodal Freight Network (ii) in paragraph (1), in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking Not later Under Secretary Assistant Secretary (iii) in paragraph (2), in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking Under Secretary Assistant Secretary (iv) in paragraph (3), in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking Under Secretary Assistant Secretary (E) in subsection (c) (as so redesignated)— (i) by striking subsection (c) subsection (b) (ii) by striking Under Secretary Assistant Secretary 1102. Updates to National Freight Plan Section 70102(b) of title 49, United States Code, is amended— (1) in paragraph (10), by striking and (2) in paragraph (11), by striking the period at the end and inserting a semicolon; and (3) by adding at the end the following: (12) best practices for reducing environmental impacts of freight movement (including stormwater runoff) and improving resiliency of the national multimodal freight system; (13) consideration of any potential unique impacts of the national freight system on rural and other underserved and historically disadvantaged communities; (14) strategies for decarbonizing freight movement, as appropriate; and (15) consideration of the impacts of e-commerce on the national multimodal freight system. . 1103. State collaboration with National Multimodal Freight Network Subsection (b) of section 70103 of title 49, United States Code (as redesignated by section 1101(c)(3)(C)), is amended— (1) in paragraph (3), by striking subparagraph (C) and inserting the following: (C) provide to the States an opportunity to submit proposed designations from the States in accordance with paragraph (4). ; and (2) in paragraph (4)— (A) in subparagraph (C)(i), by striking 20 percent 30 percent (B) by adding at the end the following: (E) Condition for acceptance The Secretary shall accept from a State a designation under subparagraph (D) only if the Secretary determines that the designation meets the applicable requirements of subparagraph (A). . 1104. Improving State freight plans (a) In general Section 70202 of title 49, United States Code, is amended— (1) in subsection (b)— (A) in paragraph (9), by striking and (B) by redesignating paragraph (10) as paragraph (16); and (C) by inserting after paragraph (9) the following: (10) the most recent commercial motor vehicle parking facilities assessment conducted by the State under subsection (f); (11) the most recent supply chain cargo flows in the State, expressed by mode of transportation; (12) an inventory of commercial ports in the State; (13) if applicable, consideration of the findings or recommendations made by any multi-State freight compact to which the State is a party under section 70204; (14) the impacts of e-commerce on freight infrastructure in the State; (15) considerations of military freight; and ; and (2) by adding at the end the following: (f) Commercial motor vehicle parking facilities assessments As part of the development or updating, as applicable, of a State freight plan under this section, each State that receives funding under section 167 of title 23, in consultation with relevant State motor carrier safety personnel, shall conduct an assessment of— (1) the capability of the State, together with the private sector in the State, to provide adequate parking facilities and rest facilities for commercial motor vehicles engaged in interstate transportation; (2) the volume of commercial motor vehicle traffic in the State; and (3) whether there exist any areas within the State with a shortage of adequate commercial motor vehicle parking facilities, including an analysis (economic or otherwise, as the State determines to be appropriate) of the underlying causes of such a shortage. . (b) Alignment of transportation planning Section 70202 of title 49, United States Code, is amended— (1) in subsection (d), by striking 5-year 8-year (2) in subsection (e)(1), by striking 5 years 4 years 1105. Implementation of National Multimodal Freight Network Not later than 30 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives a report that— (1) describes the status of the designation of the final National Multimodal Freight Network required under section 70103 of title 49, United States Code; (2) explains the reasons why the designation of the network referred to in paragraph (1) has not been finalized, if applicable; and (3) estimates the date by which that network will be designated. 1106. Multi-State freight corridor planning (a) In general Chapter 702 (1) by redesignating section 70204 as section 70206; and (2) by inserting after section 70203 the following: 70204. Multi-State freight corridor planning (a) Consent to multi-State freight mobility compacts Congress grants consent to States, cities, regional planning organizations, federally recognized Indian Tribes, and local public authorities (including public port authorities) that are regionally linked with an interest in a specific nationally or regionally significant multi-State freight corridor to enter into multi-State compacts to promote the improved mobility of goods, including— (1) identifying projects along the corridor that benefit multiple States; (2) assembling rights-of-way; and (3) performing capital improvements. (b) Financing A multi-State freight compact established by entities under subsection (a) may provide that, in order to carry out the compact, the relevant States or other entities may— (1) accept contributions from a unit of State or local government; (2) use any Federal or State funds made available for freight mobility infrastructure planning or construction, including applying for grants; (3) subject to such terms and conditions as the States consider to be advisable— (A) borrow money on a short-term basis; and (B) issue— (i) notes for borrowing under subparagraph (A); and (ii) bonds; and (4) obtain financing by other means permitted under applicable Federal or State law. (c) Advisory committees (1) In general A multi-State freight compact under this section may establish a multi-State freight corridor advisory committee, which shall include representatives of State departments of transportation and other public and private sector entities with an interest in freight mobility, such as— (A) ports; (B) freight railroads; (C) shippers; (D) carriers; (E) freight-related associations; (F) third-party logistics providers; (G) the freight industry workforce; (H) environmental organizations; (I) community organizations; and (J) units of local government. (2) Activities An advisory committee established under paragraph (1) may— (A) advise the parties to the applicable multi-State freight compact with respect to freight-related priorities, issues, projects, and funding needs that impact multi-State— (i) freight mobility; and (ii) supply chains; (B) serve as a forum for States, Indian Tribes, and other public entities to discuss decisions affecting freight mobility; (C) communicate and coordinate multi-State freight priorities with other organizations; (D) promote the sharing of information between the private and public sectors with respect to freight issues; and (E) provide information for consideration in the development of State freight plans under section 70202. (d) Grants (1) Establishment The Secretary of Transportation (referred to in this section as the Secretary (2) New compacts (A) In general To incentivize the establishment of multi-State freight compacts, the Secretary may award a grant to multi-State freight compacts established under subsection (a) during the 2-year period beginning on the date of establishment for operations costs in an amount of not more than $2,000,000. (B) Eligibility A multi-State freight compact shall be eligible for a grant under this paragraph only during the initial 3 years of operation of the compact. (C) Requirements To be eligible to receive a grant under this paragraph, a multi-State freight compact shall— (i) submit to the Secretary an application at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary may require; (ii) provide a non-Federal match equal to not less than 25 percent of the operating costs of the multi-State freight compact; and (iii) commit to establishing a multi-State freight corridor advisory committee under subsection (c)(1) during the initial 2-year period of operation of the compact. (3) Existing compacts (A) In general The Secretary may award a grant to multi-State freight compacts that are not eligible to receive a grant under paragraph (2) for operations costs in an amount of not more than $1,000,000. (B) Requirements To be eligible to receive a grant under this paragraph, a multi-State freight compact shall— (i) submit to the Secretary an application at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary may require; (ii) provide a non-Federal match of not less than 50 percent of the operating costs of the compact; and (iii) demonstrate that the compact has established a multi-State freight corridor advisory committee under subsection (c)(1). (4) Authorization of appropriations There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary $5,000,000 for each fiscal year to carry out this subsection. . (b) Clerical amendment The analysis for chapter 702 70204. Multi-State freight corridor planning. 70206. Savings provision. . B Multimodal investment 1201. National infrastructure project assistance Subtitle III of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following: 67 National infrastructure investments 6701. National infrastructure project assistance. 6702. Local and regional project assistance. 6701. National infrastructure project assistance (a) Definitions In this section: (1) Department The term Department (2) Eligible entity The term eligible entity (A) a State or a group of States; (B) a metropolitan planning organization; (C) a unit of local government; (D) a political subdivision of a State; (E) a special purpose district or public authority with a transportation function, including a port authority; (F) a Tribal government or a consortium of Tribal governments; (G) a partnership between Amtrak and 1 or more entities described in subparagraphs (A) through (F); and (H) a group of entities described in any of subparagraphs (A) through (G). (3) Program The term program (4) Secretary The term Secretary (5) State The term State (A) any of the several States; (B) the District of Columbia; (C) the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico; (D) the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands; (E) the United States Virgin Islands; (F) Guam; (G) American Samoa; and (H) any other territory or possession of the United States. (b) Establishment There is established a program under which the Secretary shall provide to eligible entities grants, on a competitive basis pursuant to single-year or multiyear grant agreements, for projects described in subsection (d). (c) Applications (1) In general To be eligible for a grant under the program, an eligible entity shall submit to the Secretary an application at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary determines to be appropriate. (2) Plan for data collection An application under paragraph (1) shall include a plan for data collection and analysis described in subsection (g). (d) Eligible projects The Secretary may provide a grant under the program only for a project— (1) that is— (A) a highway or bridge project carried out on— (i) the National Multimodal Freight Network established under section 70103; (ii) the National Highway Freight Network established under section 167 of title 23; or (iii) the National Highway System (as defined in section 101(a) of title 23); (B) a freight intermodal (including public ports) or freight rail project that provides a public benefit; (C) a railway-highway grade separation or elimination project; (D) an intercity passenger rail project; (E) a public transportation project that is— (i) eligible for assistance under chapter 53; and (ii) part of a project described in any of subparagraphs (A) through (D); or (F) a grouping, combination, or program of interrelated, connected, or dependent projects of any of the projects described in subparagraphs (A) through (E); and (2) the eligible project costs of which are— (A) reasonably anticipated to equal or exceed $500,000,000; or (B) for any project funded by the set-aside under subsection (m)(2)— (i) more than $100,000,000; but (ii) less than $500,000,000. (e) Geographical distribution In providing grants under this section, the Secretary shall ensure among grant recipients— (1) geographical diversity; and (2) a balance between rural and urban communities. (f) Project evaluation and selection (1) Requirements The Secretary may select a project described in subsection (d) to receive a grant under the program only if the Secretary determines that— (A) the project is likely to generate national or regional economic, mobility, or safety benefits; (B) the project is in need of significant Federal funding; (C) the project will be cost-effective; (D) with respect to related non-Federal financial commitments, 1 or more stable and dependable sources of funding and financing are available— (i) to construct, operate, and maintain the project; and (ii) to cover cost increases; and (E) the applicant has, or will have, sufficient legal, financial, and technical capacity to carry out the project. (2) Evaluation criteria In awarding a grant under the program, the Secretary shall evaluate— (A) the extent to which a project supports achieving a state of good repair for each existing asset to be improved by the project; (B) the level of benefits a project is expected to generate, including— (i) the costs avoided by the prevention of closure or reduced use of the asset to be improved by the project; (ii) reductions in maintenance costs over the life of the applicable asset; (iii) safety benefits, including the reduction of serious injuries and fatalities and related costs; (iv) improved person or freight throughput, including improved mobility and reliability; and (v) environmental benefits and health impacts, such as— (I) reductions in greenhouse gas emissions; (II) air quality benefits; (III) preventing stormwater runoff that would be a detriment to aquatic species; and (IV) improved infrastructure resilience; (C) the benefits of the project, as compared to the costs of the project; (D) the number of persons or volume of freight, as applicable, supported by the project; and (E) national and regional economic benefits of the project, including with respect to short- and long-term job access, growth, or creation. (3) Additional considerations In selecting projects to receive grants under the program, the Secretary shall take into consideration— (A) contributions to geographical diversity among grant recipients, including the need for a balance between the needs of rural and urban communities; (B) whether multiple States would benefit from a project; (C) whether, and the degree to which, a project uses— (i) construction materials or approaches that have— (I) demonstrated reductions in greenhouse gas emissions; or (II) reduced the need for maintenance of other projects; or (ii) technologies that will allow for future connectivity and automation; (D) whether a project would benefit— (i) a historically disadvantaged community or population; or (ii) an area of persistent poverty; (E) whether a project benefits users of multiple modes of transportation, including— (i) pedestrians; (ii) bicyclists; and (iii) users of nonvehicular, railroad, and public transportation; and (F) whether a project improves connectivity between modes of transportation moving persons or goods nationally or regionally. (4) Ratings (A) In general In evaluating applications for a grant under the program, the Secretary shall assign the project proposed in the application a rating described in subparagraph (B), based on the information contained in the applicable notice published under paragraph (5). (B) Ratings (i) Highly recommended The Secretary shall assign a rating of highly recommended (I) are exemplary projects of national or regional significance; and (II) would provide significant public benefit, as determined based on the applicable criteria described in this subsection, if funded under the program. (ii) Recommended The Secretary shall assign a rating of recommended (I) are of national or regional significance; and (II) would provide public benefit, as determined based on the applicable criteria described in this subsection, if funded under the program. (iii) Not recommended The Secretary shall assign a rating of not recommended (C) Technical assistance (i) In general On request of an eligible entity that submitted an application under subsection (c) for a project that is not selected to receive a grant under the program, the Secretary shall provide to the eligible entity technical assistance and briefings relating to the project. (ii) Treatment Technical assistance provided under this subparagraph shall not be considered to provide a guarantee of future selection of the applicable project under the program. (5) Publication of project evaluation and selection criteria Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this chapter, the Secretary shall publish and make publicly available on the website of the Department a notice that contains a detailed explanation of— (A) the method by which the Secretary will determine whether a project satisfies the applicable requirements described in paragraph (1); (B) any additional ratings the Secretary may assign to determine the means by which a project addresses the selection criteria and additional considerations described in paragraphs (2) and (3); and (C) the means by which the project requirements and ratings referred to in subparagraphs (A) and (B) will be used to assign an overall rating for the project under paragraph (4). (6) Project selection priority In awarding grants under the program, the Secretary shall give priority to projects to which the Secretary has assigned a rating of highly recommended (g) Data collection and analysis (1) Plan (A) In general An eligible entity seeking a grant under the program shall submit to the Secretary, together with the grant application, a plan for the collection and analysis of data to identify in accordance with the framework established under paragraph (2)— (i) the impacts of the project; and (ii) the accuracy of any forecast prepared during the development phase of the project and included in the grant application. (B) Contents A plan under subparagraph (A) shall include— (i) an approach to measuring— (I) the criteria described in subsection (f)(2); and (II) if applicable, the additional requirements described in subsection (f)(3); (ii) an approach for analyzing the consistency of predicted project characteristics with actual outcomes; and (iii) any other elements that the Secretary determines to be necessary. (2) Framework The Secretary may publish a standardized framework for the contents of the plans under paragraph (1), which may include, as appropriate— (A) standardized forecasting and measurement approaches; (B) data storage system requirements; and (C) any other requirements the Secretary determines to be necessary to carry out this section. (3) Multiyear grant agreements The Secretary shall require an eligible entity, as a condition of receiving funding pursuant to a multiyear grant agreement under the program, to collect additional data to measure the impacts of the project and to accurately track improvements made by the project, in accordance with a plan described in paragraph (1). (4) Reports (A) Project baseline Before the date of completion of a project for which a grant is provided under the program, the eligible entity carrying out the project shall submit to the Secretary a report providing baseline data for the purpose of analyzing the long-term impact of the project in accordance with the framework established under paragraph (2). (B) Updated report Not later than 6 years after the date of completion of a project for which a grant is provided under the program, the eligible entity carrying out the project shall submit to the Secretary a report that compares the baseline data included in the report under subparagraph (A) to project data collected during the period— (i) beginning on the date that is 5 years after the date of completion of the project; and (ii) ending on the date on which the updated report is submitted. (h) Eligible project costs (1) In general An eligible entity may use a grant provided under the program for— (A) development-phase activities and costs, including planning, feasibility analysis, revenue forecasting, alternatives analysis, data collection and analysis, environmental review and activities to support environmental review, preliminary engineering and design work, and other preconstruction activities, including the preparation of a data collection and post-construction analysis plan under subsection (g); and (B) construction, reconstruction, rehabilitation, acquisition of real property (including land relating to the project and improvements to that land), environmental mitigation (including projects to replace or rehabilitate culverts or reduce stormwater runoff for the purpose of improving habitat for aquatic species), construction contingencies, acquisition of equipment, protection, and operational improvements directly relating to the project. (2) Interest and other financing costs The interest and other financing costs of carrying out any part of a project under a multiyear grant agreement within a reasonable period of time shall be considered to be an eligible project cost only if the applicable eligible entity certifies to the Secretary that the eligible entity has demonstrated reasonable diligence in seeking the most favorable financing terms. (i) Cost sharing (1) In general The total amount awarded for a project under the program may not exceed 60 percent of the total eligible project costs described in subsection (h). (2) Maximum Federal involvement (A) In general Subject to subparagraph (B), Federal assistance other than a grant awarded under the program may be provided for a project for which a grant is awarded under the program. (B) Limitation The total amount of Federal assistance provided for a project for which a grant is awarded under the program shall not exceed 80 percent of the total cost of the project. (C) Local share Secured loans or financing provided under section 603 of title 23 or section 22402 of this title and repaid with local funds or revenues shall be considered to be part of the local share of the cost of a project. (3) Application to multiyear agreements Notwithstanding any other provision of this title, in any case in which amounts are provided under the program pursuant to a multiyear agreement, the disbursed Federal share of the cost of the project may exceed the limitations described in paragraphs (1) and (2)(B) for 1 or more years if the total amount of the Federal share of the cost of the project, once completed, does not exceed those limitations. (j) Grant agreements (1) In general A project for which an eligible entity receives a multiyear grant under the program shall be carried out in accordance with this subsection. (2) Terms A multiyear grant agreement under this subsection shall— (A) establish the terms of Federal participation in the applicable project; (B) establish the maximum amount of Federal financial assistance for the project; (C) establish a schedule of anticipated Federal obligations for the project that provides for obligation of the full grant amount; (D) describe the period of time for completing the project, regardless of whether that period extends beyond the period of an authorization; and (E) facilitate timely and efficient management of the applicable project by the eligible entity carrying out the project, in accordance with applicable law. (3) Special rules (A) In general A multiyear grant agreement under this subsection— (i) shall provide for the obligation of an amount of available budget authority specified in law; (ii) may include a commitment, contingent on amounts to be specified in law in advance for commitments under this paragraph, to obligate an additional amount from future available budget authority specified in law; and (iii) shall provide that any funds disbursed under the program for the project before the completion of any review required under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 (B) Contingent commitment A contingent commitment under this paragraph is not an obligation of the Federal Government, including for purposes of section 1501 of title 31. (4) Single-year grants The Secretary may only provide to an eligible entity a full grant under the program in a single year if all reviews required under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 (k) Congressional notification (1) In general Not later than 30 days before the date on which the Secretary publishes the selection of projects to receive grants under the program, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives a written notice that includes— (A) a list of all project applications reviewed by the Secretary as part of the selection process; (B) the rating assigned to each project under subsection (f)(4); (C) an evaluation and justification with respect to each project for which the Secretary will— (i) provide a grant under the program; and (ii) enter into a multiyear grant agreement under the program; (D) a description of the means by which the Secretary anticipates allocating among selected projects the amounts made available to the Secretary to carry out the program; and (E) anticipated funding levels required for the 3 fiscal years beginning after the date of submission of the notice for projects selected for grants under the program, based on information available to the Secretary as of that date. (2) Congressional disapproval The Secretary may not provide a grant or any other obligation or commitment to fund a project under the program if a joint resolution is enacted disapproving funding for the project before the last day of the 30-day period described in paragraph (1). (l) Reports (1) Transparency Not later than 60 days after the date on which the grants are announced under the program, the Secretary shall publish on the website of the Department a report that includes— (A) a list of all project applications reviewed by the Secretary as part of the selection process under the program; (B) the rating assigned to each project under subsection (f)(4); and (C) a description of each project for which a grant has been provided under the program. (2) Comptroller General (A) Assessment The Comptroller General of the United States shall conduct an assessment of the administrative establishment, solicitation, selection, and justification process with respect to the funding of grants under the program. (B) Report Not later than 18 months after the date on which the initial grants are awarded for projects under the program, the Comptroller General shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives a report that describes, as applicable— (i) the adequacy and fairness of the process by which the projects were selected; and (ii) the justification and criteria used for the selection of the projects. (m) Authorization of appropriations (1) In general There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary to carry out the program $2,000,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2022 through 2026. (2) Other projects Of the amounts made available under paragraph (1), 50 percent shall be set aside for projects that have a project cost of— (A) more than $100,000,000; but (B) less than $500,000,000. (3) Administrative expenses Of the amounts made available to carry out the program for each fiscal year, the Secretary may reserve not more than 2 percent for the costs of— (A) administering and overseeing the program; and (B) hiring personnel for the program, including personnel dedicated to processing permitting and environmental review issues. (4) Transfer of authority The Secretary may transfer any portion of the amounts reserved under paragraph (3) for a fiscal year to the Administrator of any of the Federal Highway Administration, the Federal Transit Administration, the Federal Railroad Administration, or the Maritime Administration to award and oversee grants in accordance with this section. (n) Additional requirements Each project that receives a grant under the program shall achieve compliance with the applicable requirements of— (1) title 23 relating to highway, road, and bridge projects; (2) subchapter IV of chapter 31 (3) title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 ( 42 U.S.C. 2000d (4) the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 (5) chapter 53 relating to transit projects; and (6) section 22905, as applicable, relating to rail projects. . 1202. Local and regional project assistance (a) In general Chapter 67 of subtitle III of title 49, United States Code (as added by section 1201), is amended by adding at the end the following: 6702. Local and regional project assistance (a) Definitions In this section: (1) Area of persistent poverty The term area of persistent poverty (A) any county (or equivalent jurisdiction) in which, during the 30-year period ending on the date of enactment of this chapter, 20 percent or more of the population continually lived in poverty, as measured by— (i) the 1990 decennial census; (ii) the 2000 decennial census; and (iii) the most recent annual small area income and poverty estimate of the Bureau of the Census; (B) any census tract with a poverty rate of not less than 20 percent, as measured by the 5-year data series available from the American Community Survey of the Bureau of the Census for the period of 2014 through 2018; and (C) any territory or possession of the United States. (2) Eligible entity The term eligible entity (A) a State; (B) the District of Columbia; (C) any territory or possession of the United States; (D) a unit of local government; (E) a public agency or publicly chartered authority established by 1 or more States; (F) a special purpose district or public authority with a transportation function, including a port authority; (G) a federally recognized Indian Tribe or a consortium of such Indian Tribes; (H) a transit agency; and (I) a multi-State or multijurisdictional group of entities described in any of subparagraphs (A) through (H). (3) Eligible project The term eligible project (A) a highway or bridge project eligible for assistance under title 23; (B) a public transportation project eligible for assistance under chapter 53; (C) a passenger rail or freight rail transportation project eligible for assistance under this title; (D) a port infrastructure investment, including— (i) inland port infrastructure; and (ii) a land port-of-entry; (E) the surface transportation components of an airport project eligible for assistance under part B of subtitle VII; (F) a project for investment in a surface transportation facility located on Tribal land, the title or maintenance responsibility of which is vested in the Federal Government; (G) a project to replace or rehabilitate a culvert or prevent stormwater runoff for the purpose of improving habitat for aquatic species that will advance the goal of the program described in subsection (b)(2); and (H) any other surface transportation infrastructure project that the Secretary considers to be necessary to advance the goal of the program. (4) Program The term program (5) Rural area The term rural area (6) Secretary The term Secretary (7) Urbanized area The term urbanized area (b) Establishment (1) In general The Secretary shall establish and carry out a program, to be known as the Local and Regional Project Assistance Program (2) Goal The goal of the program shall be to fund eligible projects that will have a significant local or regional impact and improve transportation infrastructure. (c) Grants (1) In general In carrying out the program, the Secretary may make grants to eligible entities, on a competitive basis, in accordance with this section. (2) Amount Except as otherwise provided in this section, each grant made under the program shall be in an amount equal to— (A) not less than $5,000,000 for an urbanized area; (B) not less than $1,000,000 for a rural area; and (C) not more than $25,000,000. (3) Limitation Not more than 15 percent of the funds made available to carry out the program for a fiscal year may be awarded to eligible projects in a single State during that fiscal year. (d) Selection of eligible projects (1) Notice of funding opportunity Not later than 60 days after the date on which funds are made available to carry out the program, the Secretary shall publish a notice of funding opportunity for the funds. (2) Applications To be eligible to receive a grant under the program, an eligible entity shall submit to the Secretary an application— (A) in such form and containing such information as the Secretary considers to be appropriate; and (B) by such date as the Secretary may establish, subject to the condition that the date shall be not later than 90 days after the date on which the Secretary issues the solicitation under paragraph (1). (3) Primary selection criteria In awarding grants under the program, the Secretary shall evaluate the extent to which a project— (A) improves safety; (B) improves environmental sustainability; (C) improves the quality of life of rural areas or urbanized areas; (D) increases economic competitiveness and opportunity; (E) contributes to a state of good repair; and (F) improves mobility and community connectivity. (4) Additional selection criteria In selecting projects to receive grants under the program, the Secretary shall take into consideration the extent to which— (A) the project sponsors collaborated with other public and private entities; (B) the project adopts innovative technologies or techniques, including— (i) innovative technology; (ii) innovative project delivery techniques; and (iii) innovative project financing; (C) the project has demonstrated readiness; and (D) the project is cost effective. (5) Transparency (A) In general The Secretary, shall evaluate, through a methodology that is discernible and transparent to the public, the means by which each application submitted under paragraph (2) addresses the criteria under paragraphs (3) and (4) or otherwise established by the Secretary. (B) Publication The methodology under subparagraph (A) shall be published by the Secretary as part of the notice of funding opportunity under the program. (6) Awards Not later than 270 days after the date on which amounts are made available to provide grants under the program for a fiscal year, the Secretary shall announce the selection by the Secretary of eligible projects to receive the grants in accordance with this section. (7) Technical assistance (A) In general On request of an eligible entity that submitted an application under paragraph (2) for a project that is not selected to receive a grant under the program, the Secretary shall provide to the eligible entity technical assistance and briefings relating to the project. (B) Treatment Technical assistance provided under this paragraph shall not be considered to provide a guarantee of future selection of the applicable project under the program. (e) Federal share (1) In general Except as provided in paragraph (2), the Federal share of the cost of an eligible project carried out using a grant provided under the program shall not exceed 80 percent. (2) Exception The Federal share of the cost of an eligible project carried out in a rural area or an area of persistent poverty using a grant under this subsection may exceed 80 percent, at the discretion of the Secretary. (3) Treatment of other Federal funds Amounts provided under any of the following programs shall be considered to be a part of the non-Federal share for purposes of this subsection: (A) The tribal transportation program under section 202 of title 23. (B) The Federal lands transportation program under section 203 of title 23. (C) The TIFIA program (as defined in section 601(a) of title 23). (D) The Railroad Rehabilitation and Improvement Financing Program under chapter 224. (4) Limitation The Secretary shall not take into consideration the Federal share in selecting eligible projects to receive grants under the program. (f) Other considerations (1) In general Of the total amount made available to carry out the program for each fiscal year— (A) not more than 50 percent shall be allocated for eligible projects located in rural areas; and (B) not more than 50 percent shall be allocated for eligible projects located in urbanized areas. (2) Historically disadvantaged communities and areas of persistent poverty Of the total amount made available to carry out the program for each fiscal year, not less than 1 percent shall be awarded for projects in historically disadvantaged communities or areas of persistent poverty. (3) Multimodal and geographical considerations In selecting projects to receive grants under the program, the Secretary shall take into consideration geographical and modal diversity. (g) Project planning Of the amounts made available to carry out the program for each fiscal year, not less than 5 percent shall be made available for the planning, preparation, or design of eligible projects. (h) Transfer of authority Of the amounts made available to carry out the program for each fiscal year, the Secretary may transfer not more than 2 percent for a fiscal year to the Administrator of any of the Federal Highway Administration, the Federal Transit Administration, the Federal Railroad Administration, or the Maritime Administration to award and oversee grants and credit assistance in accordance with this section. (i) Credit program costs (1) In general Subject to paragraph (2), at the request of an eligible entity, the Secretary may use a grant provided to the eligible entity under the program to pay the subsidy or credit risk premium, and the administrative costs, of an eligible project that is eligible for Federal credit assistance under— (A) chapter 224; or (B) chapter 6 (2) Limitation Not more than 20 percent of the funds made available to carry out the program for a fiscal year may be used to carry out paragraph (1). (j) Authorization of appropriations There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $1,500,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2022 through 2026, to remain available for a period of 3 fiscal years following the fiscal year for which the amounts are appropriated. (k) Reports (1) Annual report The Secretary shall make available on the website of the Department of Transportation at the end of each fiscal year an annual report that describes each eligible project for which a grant was provided under the program during that fiscal year. (2) Comptroller General Not later than 1 year after the date on which the initial grants are awarded for eligible projects under the program, the Comptroller General of the United States shall— (A) review the administration of the program, including— (i) the solicitation process; and (ii) the selection process, including— (I) the adequacy and fairness of the process; and (II) the selection criteria; and (B) submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives a report describing the findings of the review under subparagraph (A), including recommendations for improving the administration of the program, if any. . (b) Clerical amendment The analysis for subtitle III of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following: CHAPTER 67—National infrastructure investments Sec. 6701. National infrastructure project assistance. Sec. 6702. Local and regional project assistance. . 1203. National culvert removal, replacement, and restoration grant program (a) In general Chapter 67 6703. National culvert removal, replacement, and restoration grant program (a) Definitions In this section: (1) Indian Tribe The term Indian Tribe 25 U.S.C. 5304 (2) Program The term program (3) Secretary The term Secretary (4) Undersecretary The term Undersecretary (b) Establishment The Secretary, in consultation with the Undersecretary, shall establish an annual competitive grant program to award grants to eligible entities for— (1) projects for the replacement, removal, and repair of culverts that would meaningfully improve or restore fish passage for anadromous fish; or (2) projects with the goal of addressing freshwater runoff that impacts marine or anadromous fish and shellfish species. (c) Eligible entities An entity eligible to receive a grant under the program is— (1) a State; (2) a unit of local government; or (3) an Indian Tribe. (d) Grant selection process The Secretary, in consultation with the Undersecretary, shall establish a process for determining criteria for awarding grants under the program, subject to subsection (e). (e) Prioritization The Secretary, in consultation with the Undersecretary, shall establish procedures to prioritize awarding grants under the program to— (1) projects that would improve fish passage for— (A) anadromous fish stocks listed as an endangered species or a threatened species under section 4 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 ( 16 U.S.C. 1533 (B) anadromous fish stocks identified by the Undersecretary that could reasonably become listed as an endangered species or a threatened species under that section; (C) anadromous fish stocks identified by the Undersecretary as prey for endangered species, threatened species, or protected species, including Southern resident orcas (Orcinus orcas); or (D) anadromous fish stocks identified by the Undersecretary as climate resilient stocks; and (2) with respect to culvert removal, projects that would open up more than 200 meters of upstream habitat before the end of the natural habitat. (f) Federal share The Federal share of the cost of a project carried out with a grant to a State or a unit of local government under the program shall be not more than 80 percent. (g) Technical assistance The Secretary, in consultation with the Undersecretary, shall develop a process to provide technical assistance to Indian Tribes and underserved communities to assist in the project design and grant process and procedures. (h) Administrative expenses Of the amounts made available for each fiscal year to carry out the program, the Secretary and the Undersecretary may use not more than 2 percent to pay the administrative expenses necessary to carry out this section. (i) Authorization of appropriations There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out the program $800,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2022 through 2026. . (b) Clerical amendment The analysis for chapter 67 6703. National culvert removal, replacement, and restoration grant program. . 1204. Nationally significant multimodal freight projects (a) In general Section 117 of title 23, United States Code, is amended— (1) in the section heading, by inserting multimodal freight (2) in subsection (a)(2)— (A) in subparagraph (C), by striking highway freight (B) in subparagraph (E), by striking highway freight (3) in subsection (d)— (A) in paragraph (1)(A)— (i) in clause (iii)(II), by striking or (ii) in clause (iv), by striking and or (iii) by adding at the end the following: (v) a highway, bridge, or freight project carried out on the National Multimodal Freight Network established under section 70103 of title 49; and ; and (B) in paragraph (2), by striking $600,000,000 50 percent (4) in subsection (e)(1)— (A) by striking 10 percent not less than 15 percent (B) by striking subsection (d)(1)(A) subsection (d)(1) (C) by striking subsection (d)(1)(B) subsection (d)(2) (5) in subsection (f)(2), by inserting (including a project to replace or rehabilitate a culvert, or to reduce stormwater runoff for the purpose of improving habitat for aquatic species) environmental mitigation (6) in subsection (m), by striking paragraph (1) and inserting the following: (1) In general Not later than 60 days before the date on which a grant is provided for a project under this section, the Secretary shall submit to the Committees on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives a report describing the proposed grant, including— (A) an evaluation and justification for the applicable project; and (B) a description of the amount of the proposed grant award. ; and (7) by adding at the end the following: (o) Additional authorization of appropriations In addition to amounts made available from the Highway Trust Fund, there are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section, to remain available for a period of 3 fiscal years following the fiscal year for which the amounts are appropriated— (1) $1,100,000,000 for fiscal year 2022; (2) $1,200,000,000 for fiscal year 2023; (3) $1,300,000,000 for fiscal year 2024; (4) $1,400,000,000 for fiscal year 2025; and (5) $1,500,000,000 for fiscal year 2026. . (b) Conforming amendment Section 116(d)(1)(D) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by striking freight and highway projects program multimodal freight and highway projects program 1205. National multimodal cooperative freight research program (a) In general Chapter 702 70205. National multimodal cooperative freight research program (a) Establishment Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this section, the Secretary of Transportation (referred to in this section as the Secretary (b) Administration by National Academy of Sciences (1) In general The Secretary shall enter into an agreement with the National Academy of Sciences to support and carry out administrative and management activities under the program established under subsection (a). (2) Advisory committee To assist the National Academy of Sciences in carrying out this subsection, the National Academy shall establish an advisory committee, the members of which represent a cross-section of multimodal freight stakeholders, including— (A) the Department of Transportation and other relevant Federal departments and agencies; (B) State (including the District of Columbia) departments of transportation; (C) units of local government, including public port authorities; (D) nonprofit entities; (E) institutions of higher education; (F) labor organizations representing employees in freight industries; and (G) private sector entities representing various transportation modes. (c) Activities (1) National research agenda (A) In general The advisory committee established under subsection (b)(2), in consultation with interested parties, shall recommend a national research agenda for the program in accordance with subsection (d), which shall include a multiyear strategic plan. (B) Action by interested parties For purposes of subparagraph (A), an interested party may— (i) submit to the advisory committee research proposals; (ii) participate in merit reviews of research proposals and peer reviews of research products; and (iii) receive research results. (2) Research contracts and grants (A) In general The National Academy of Sciences may award research contracts and grants under the program established under subsection (a) through— (i) open competition; and (ii) merit review, conducted on a regular basis. (B) Evaluation (i) Peer review A contract or grant for research under subparagraph (A) may allow peer review of the research results. (ii) Programmatic evaluations The National Academy of Sciences may conduct periodic programmatic evaluations on a regular basis of a contract or grant for research under subparagraph (A). (C) Dissemination of findings The National Academy of Sciences shall disseminate the findings of any research conducted under this paragraph to relevant researchers, practitioners, and decisionmakers through— (i) conferences and seminars; (ii) field demonstrations; (iii) workshops; (iv) training programs; (v) presentations; (vi) testimony to government officials; (vii) publicly accessible websites; (viii) publications for the general public; and (ix) other appropriate means. (3) Report Not later than 1 year after the date of establishment of the program under subsection (a), and annually thereafter, the Secretary shall make available on a public website a report that describes the ongoing research and findings under the program. (d) Areas for research The national research agenda under subsection (c)(1) shall consider research in the following areas: (1) Improving the efficiency and resiliency of freight movement, including— (A) improving the connections between rural areas and domestic and foreign markets; (B) maximizing infrastructure utility, including improving urban curb-use efficiency; (C) quantifying the national impact of blocked railroad crossings; (D) improved techniques for estimating and quantifying public benefits derived from freight transportation projects; and (E) low-cost methods to reduce congestion at bottlenecks. (2) Adapting to future trends in freight, including— (A) considering the impacts of e-commerce; (B) automation; and (C) zero-emissions transportation. (3) Workforce considerations in freight, including— (A) diversifying the freight transportation industry workforce; and (B) creating and transitioning a workforce capable of designing, deploying, and operating emerging technologies. (e) Federal share (1) In general The Federal share of the cost of an activity carried out under this section shall be up to 100 percent. (2) Use of non-Federal funds In addition to using funds made available to carry out this section, the National Academy of Sciences may seek and accept additional funding from public and private entities capable of accepting funding from the Department of Transportation, States, units of local government, nonprofit entities, and the private sector. (f) Authorization of appropriations There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary $3,750,000 for each fiscal year to carry out the program established under subsection (a), to remain available until expended. (g) Sunset The program established under subsection (a) shall terminate 5 years after the date of enactment of this section. . (b) Clerical amendment The analysis for chapter 702 70205. National multimodal cooperative freight research program. . 1206. Rural and Tribal infrastructure advancement (a) Definitions In this section: (1) Build America Bureau The term Build America Bureau (2) Eligible entity The term eligible entity (A) a unit of local government or political subdivision that is located outside of an urbanized area with a population of more than 150,000 residents, as determined by the Bureau of the Census; (B) a State seeking to advance a project located in an area described in subparagraph (A); and (C) a federally recognized Indian Tribe. (3) Eligible program The term eligible program (A) subparagraph (A), (B), or (D) of section 116(d)(1) of title 49, United States Code; or (B) chapter 67 of that title (as added by section 1201). (4) Pilot program The term pilot program (b) Establishment (1) In general The Secretary shall establish within the Build America Bureau a pilot program, to be known as the Rural and Tribal Assistance Pilot Program (2) Assistance and information In carrying out the pilot program, the Secretary may provide to an eligible entity the following: (A) Financial, technical, and legal assistance to evaluate potential projects reasonably expected to be eligible to receive funding or financing assistance under an eligible program. (B) Assistance with development-phase activities, including— (i) project planning; (ii) feasibility studies; (iii) revenue forecasting and funding and financing options analyses; (iv) environmental review; (v) preliminary engineering and design work; (vi) economic assessments and cost-benefit analyses; (vii) public benefit studies; (viii) statutory and regulatory framework analyses; (ix) value for money studies; (x) evaluations of costs to sustain the project; (xi) evaluating opportunities for private financing and project bundling; and (xii) any other activity determined to be appropriate by the Secretary. (C) Information regarding innovative financing best practices and case studies, if the eligible entity is interested in using innovative financing methods. (c) Assistance from expert firms The Secretary may retain the services of expert firms, including counsel, in the field of municipal and project finance to assist in providing financial, technical, and legal assistance to eligible entities under the pilot program. (d) Website (1) Description of pilot program (A) In general The Secretary shall make publicly available on the website of the Department a description of the pilot program, including— (i) the resources available to eligible entities under the pilot program; and (ii) the application process established under paragraph (2)(A). (B) Clearinghouse The Secretary may establish a clearinghouse for tools, templates, and best practices on the page of the website of the Department that contains the information described in subparagraph (A). (2) Applications (A) In general Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall establish a process by which an eligible entity may submit to the Secretary an application under the pilot program, in such form and containing such information as the Secretary may require. (B) Online portal The Secretary shall develop and make available to the public an online portal through which the Secretary may receive applications under subparagraph (A), on a rolling basis. (C) Approval (i) In general Not later than 60 days after the date on which the Secretary receives a complete application under subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall provide to each eligible entity that submitted the application a notice describing whether the application is approved or disapproved. (ii) Additional written notification (I) In general Not later than 30 days after the date on which the Secretary provides to an eligible entity a notification under clause (i), the Secretary shall provide to the eligible entity an additional written notification of the approval or disapproval of the application. (II) Disapproved applications If the application of an eligible entity is disapproved under this subparagraph, the additional written notification provided to the eligible entity under subclause (I) shall include an offer for a written or telephonic debrief by the Secretary that will provide an explanation of, and guidance regarding, the reasons why the application was disapproved. (iii) Insufficient applications The Secretary shall not approve an application under this subparagraph if the application fails to meet the applicable criteria established under this section. (3) Dashboard The Secretary shall publish on the website of the Department a monthly report that includes, for each application received under the pilot program— (A) the type of eligible entity that submitted the application; (B) the location of each potential project described in the application; (C) a brief description of the assistance requested; (D) the date on which the Secretary received the application; and (E) the date on which the Secretary provided the notice of approval or disapproval under paragraph (2)(C)(i). (e) Experts An eligible entity that receives assistance under the pilot program may retain the services of an expert for any phase of a project carried out using the assistance, including project development, regardless of whether the expert is retained by the Secretary under subsection (c). (f) Funding (1) In general For each of fiscal years 2022 through 2026, the Secretary may use to carry out the pilot program, including to retain the services of expert firms under subsection (c), any amount made available to the Secretary to provide credit assistance under an eligible program that is not otherwise obligated, subject to paragraph (2). (2) Limitation The amount used under paragraph (1) to carry out the pilot program shall be not more than— (A) $1,600,000 for fiscal year 2022; (B) $1,800,000 for fiscal year 2023; (C) $2,000,000 for fiscal year 2024; (D) $2,200,000 for fiscal year 2025; and (E) $2,400,000 for fiscal year 2026. (3) Geographical distribution Not more than 20 percent of the funds made available to carry out the pilot program for a fiscal year may be used for projects in a single State during that fiscal year. (g) Sunset The pilot program shall terminate on the date that is 5 years after the date of enactment of this Act. (h) Nonapplicability Nothing in this section limits the ability of the Build America Bureau or the Secretary to establish or carry out any other assistance program under title 23 or title 49, United States Code. (i) Administration by Build America Bureau Section 116(d)(1) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following: (E) The Rural and Tribal Assistance Pilot Program established under section 1206(b)(1) of the Surface Transportation Investment Act of 2021 . C Railroad rehabilitation and improvement financing reforms 1301. RRIF codification and reforms (a) Codification of title V of the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976 Part B of subtitle V of title 49, United States Code, is amended— (1) by inserting after chapter 223 the following chapter analysis: Chapter 224—Railroad rehabilitation and improvement financing Sec. 22401. Definitions. 22402. Direct loans and loan guarantees. 22403. Administration of direct loans and loan guarantees. 22404. Employee protection. 22405. Authorization of appropriations. ; (2) by inserting after the chapter analysis the following section headings: 22401. Definitions 22402. Direct loans and loan guarantees 22403. Administration of direct loans and loan guarantees 22404. Employee protection ; (3) by inserting after the section heading for section 22401, as added by paragraph (2), the text of section 501 of the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976 ( 45 U.S.C. 821 (4) by inserting after the section heading for section 22402, as added by paragraph (2), the text of section 502 of the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976 ( 45 U.S.C. 822 (5) by inserting after the section heading for section 22403, as added by paragraph (2), the text of section 503 of the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976 ( 45 U.S.C. 823 (6) by inserting after the section heading for section 22404, as added by paragraph (2), the text of section 504 of the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976 ( 45 U.S.C. 836 (b) Conforming repeals (1) In general Sections 501, 502, 503, and 504 of the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976 ( 45 U.S.C. 821 (2) Savings provision The section repeals under paragraph (1) shall not affect the rights and duties that matured under such sections, the penalties that were incurred under such sections, or any proceeding authorized under any such section that commenced before the date of enactment of this Act. (c) Definitions Section 22401 of title 49, United States Code, as added by subsection (a)(2), and amended by subsection (a)(3), is further amended— (1) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking For purposes of this title: In this chapter: (2) by amending paragraph (12) to read as follows: (12) The term railroad (A) any railroad railroad carrier (B) any rail carrier ; (3) by redesignating paragraph (14) as paragraph (15); and (4) by inserting after paragraph (13) the following: (14) The term Secretary . (d) Direct loans and loan guarantees Section 22402 of title 49, United States Code, as added by subsection (a)(2), and amended by subsection (a)(4), is further amended— (1) in subsection (a)— (A) in paragraph (2), by inserting entities implementing interstate compacts (B) in paragraph (5), by striking and (C) by striking paragraph (6) and inserting the following: (6) limited option freight shippers that own or operate a plant or other facility, solely for the purpose of constructing a rail connection between a plant or facility and a railroad; and (7) private entities with controlling ownership in 1 or more freight railroads other than Class I carriers. ; (2) in subsection (b)— (A) by amending paragraph (1) to read as follows: (1) In general Direct loans and loan guarantees authorized under this section shall be used— (A) to acquire, improve, or rehabilitate intermodal or rail equipment or facilities, including track, components of track, cuts and fills, stations, tunnels, bridges, yards, buildings, and shops, and costs related to these activities, including pre-construction costs; (B) to develop or establish new intermodal or railroad facilities; (C) to develop landside port infrastructure for seaports serviced by rail; (D) to refinance outstanding debt incurred for the purposes described in subparagraph (A), (B), or (C); (E) to reimburse planning, permitting, and design expenses relating to activities described in subparagraph (A), (B), or (C); or (F) to finance economic development, including commercial and residential development, and related infrastructure and activities, that— (i) incorporates private investment of greater than 20 percent of total project costs; (ii) is physically connected to, or is within 1/2 (iii) demonstrates the ability of the applicant to commence the contracting process for construction not later than 90 days after the date on which the direct loan or loan guarantee is obligated for the project under this chapter; and (iv) demonstrates the ability to generate new revenue for the relevant passenger rail station or service by increasing ridership, increasing tenant lease payments, or carrying out other activities that generate revenue exceeding costs. ; and (B) by striking paragraph (3); (3) in subsection (c)— (A) in paragraph (1), by striking of title 49, United States Code (B) in paragraph (5), by striking title 49, United States Code, this title (4) in subsection (e), by amending paragraph (1) to read as follows: (1) Direct loans The interest rate on a direct loan under this section shall be not less than the yield on United States Treasury securities of a similar maturity to the maturity of the secured loan on the date of execution of the loan agreement. ; (5) in subsection (f)— (A) in paragraph (3)— (i) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A)— (I) by striking An applicant may propose and Upon receipt of a proposal from an applicant under this section, (II) by striking tangible asset collateral described in paragraph (6) (ii) in subparagraph (B)(ii), by inserting , including operating or tenant charges, facility rents, or other fees paid by transportation service providers or operators for access to, or the use of, infrastructure, including rail lines, bridges, tunnels, yards, or stations user fees (iii) in subparagraph (C), by striking $75,000,000 $150,000,000 (iv) by adding at the end the following: (D) Revenue from projected freight or passenger demand for the project based on regionally developed economic forecasts, including projections of any modal diversion resulting from the project. ; and (B) by adding at the end the following: (5) Cohorts of loans For any direct loan issued before the date of enactment of the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation Act ( Public Law 114–94 Public Law 94–210 (A) 60 days after the date of enactment of the Surface Transportation Investment Act of 2021 (B) if the borrower has not yet satisfied all obligations attached to such loan, 60 days after the date on which all obligations attached to such loan have been satisfied. (6) Collateral (A) Types of collateral An applicant or infrastructure partner may propose tangible and intangible assets as collateral, exclusive of goodwill. The Secretary, after evaluating each such asset— (i) shall accept a net liquidation value of collateral; and (ii) shall consider and may accept— (I) the market value of collateral; or (II) in the case of a blanket pledge or assignment of an entire operating asset or basket of assets as collateral, the market value of assets, or, the market value of the going concern, considering— (aa) inclusion in the pledge of all the assets necessary for independent operational utility of the collateral, including tangible assets such as real property, track and structure, motive power, equipment and rolling stock, stations, systems and maintenance facilities and intangible assets such as long-term shipping agreements, easements, leases and access rights such as for trackage and haulage; (bb) interchange commitments; and (cc) the value of the asset as determined through the cost or market approaches, or the market value of the going concern, with the latter considering discounted cash flows for a period not to exceed the term of the direct loan or loan guarantee. (B) Appraisal standards In evaluating appraisals of collateral under subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall consider— (i) adherence to the substance and principles of the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice, as developed by the Appraisal Standards Board of the Appraisal Foundation; and (ii) the qualifications of the appraisers to value the type of collateral offered. (7) Repayment of credit risk premiums The Secretary shall return credit risk premiums paid, and interest accrued on such premiums, to the original source when all obligations of a loan or loan guarantee have been satisfied. This paragraph applies to any project that has been granted assistance under this section after the date of enactment of the Surface Transportation Investment Act of 2021 ; (6) in subsection (g), by amending paragraph (1) the read as follows: (1) repayment of the obligation is required to be made within a term that is not longer than the shorter of— (A) 75 years after the date of substantial completion of the project; (B) the estimated useful life of the rail equipment or facilities to be acquired, rehabilitated, improved, developed, or established, subject to an adequate determination of long-term risk; or (C) for projects determined to have an estimated useful life that is longer than 35 years, the period that is equal to the sum of— (i) 35 years; and (ii) the product of— (I) the difference between the estimated useful life and 35 years; multiplied by (II) 75 percent. ; (7) in subsection (h)— (A) in paragraph (3)(B), by striking section 836 of this title section 22404 (B) in paragraph (4), by striking (b)(1)(E) (b)(1)(F) (8) in subsection (i)— (A) by amending paragraph (4) to read as follows: (4) Streamline application review process (A) In general Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of the Surface Transportation Investment Act of 2021 (B) Criteria Applicants seeking loans and loan guarantees under this section shall— (i) seek a total loan or loan guarantee value not exceeding $150,000,000; (ii) meet eligible project purposes described in subparagraphs (A) and (B) of subsection (b)(1); and (iii) meet other criteria considered appropriate by the Secretary, in consultation with the Council on Credit and Finance of the Department of Transportation. (C) Expedited credit review The total period between the submission of an application and the approval or disapproval of an application for a direct loan or loan guarantee under this paragraph may not exceed 90 days. If an application review conducted under this paragraph exceeds 90 days, the Secretary shall— (i) provide written notice to the applicant, including a justification for the delay and updated estimate of the time needed for approval or disapproval; and (ii) publish the notice on the dashboard described in paragraph (5). ; (B) in paragraph (5)— (i) in subparagraph (E), by striking and (ii) in subparagraph (F), by adding ; and (iii) by adding at the end the following: (G) whether the project utilized the expedited application process under paragraph (4). ; and (C) by adding at the end the following: (6) Creditworthiness review status (A) In general The Secretary shall maintain status information related to each application for a loan or loan guarantee, which shall be provided to the applicant upon request, including— (i) the total value of the proposed loan or loan guarantee; (ii) the name of the applicant or applicants submitting the application; (iii) the proposed capital structure of the project to which the loan or loan guarantee would be applied, including the proposed Federal and non-Federal shares of the total project cost; (iv) the type of activity to receive credit assistance, including whether the project is new construction, the rehabilitation of existing rail equipment or facilities, or the refinancing an existing loan or loan guarantee; (v) if a deferred payment is proposed, the length of such deferment; (vi) the credit rating or ratings provided for the applicant; (vii) if other credit instruments are involved, the proposed subordination relationship and a description of such other credit instruments; (viii) a schedule for the readiness of proposed investments for financing; (ix) a description of any Federal permits required, including under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 Buy America Act (x) other characteristics of the proposed activity to be financed, borrower, key agreements, or the nature of the credit that the Secretary considers to be fundamental to the creditworthiness review; (xi) the status of the application in the pre-application review and selection process; (xii) the cumulative amounts paid by the Secretary to outside advisors related to the application, including financial and legal advisors; (xiii) a description of the key rating factors used by the Secretary to determine credit risk, including— (I) the factors used to determine risk for the proposed application; and (II) an adjectival risk rating for each identified factor, ranked as either low, moderate, or high; (xiv) a nonbinding estimate of the credit risk premium, which may be in the form of— (I) a range, based on the assessment of risk factors described in clause (xiii); or (II) a justification for why the estimate of the credit risk premium cannot be determined based on available information; and (xv) a description of the key information the Secretary needs from the applicant to complete the credit review process and make a final determination of the credit risk premium. (B) Report upon request The Secretary shall provide the information described in subparagraph (A) not later than 30 days after a request from the applicant. (C) Exception Applications processed using the streamline application review process under paragraph (4) are not subject to the requirements under this paragraph. ; and (9) by adding at the end the following: (n) Non-Federal share The proceeds of a loan provided under this section may be used as the non-Federal share of project costs for any grant program administered by the Secretary if such loan is repayable from non-Federal funds. . (e) Administration of direct loans and loan guarantees Section 22403 of title 49, United States Code, as added by subsection (a)(2), and amended by subsection (a)(5), is further amended— (1) in subsection (a)— (A) by striking The Secretary shall (1) In general The Secretary shall ; and (B) by adding at the end the following: (2) Documentation An applicant meeting the size standard for small business concerns established under section 3(a)(2) of the Small Business Act ( 15 U.S.C. 632(a)(2) ; and (2) in subsection (m), by striking section 822 of this title section 22402 (f) Authorization of appropriations Chapter 224 22405. Authorization of appropriations (a) Authorization (1) In general There is authorized to be appropriated for credit assistance under this chapter, which shall be provided at the discretion of the Secretary, $50,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2022 through 2026. (2) Refund of premium There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary $70,000,000 to repay the credit risk premium in accordance with section 22402(f)(5). (3) Availability Amounts appropriated pursuant to this subsection shall remain available until expended. (b) Use of funds (1) In general Credit assistance provided under subsection (a) may not exceed $20,000,000 for any loan or loan guarantee. (2) Administrative costs Not less than 3 percent of the amounts appropriated pursuant to subsection (a) in each fiscal year shall be made available to the Secretary for use in place of charges collected under section 22403(l)(1) for passenger railroads and freight railroads other than Class I carriers. (3) Short line set-aside Not less than 50 percent of the amounts appropriated pursuant to subsection (a)(1) for each fiscal year shall be set aside for freight railroads other than Class I carriers. . (g) Clerical amendment The analysis for title 49, United States Code, is amended by inserting after the item relating to chapter 223 the following: 224. Railroad rehabilitation and improvement financing 22401 . (h) Technical and conforming amendments (1) National trails system act Section 8(d) of the National Trails System Act ( 16 U.S.C. 1247(d) ( 45 U.S.C. 801 chapter 224 1976 (2) Passenger rail reform and investment act Section 11315(c) of the Passenger Rail Reform and Investment Act of 2015 ( 23 U.S.C. 322 Public Law 114–94 sections 502 and 503 of the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976 sections 22402 and 22403 of title 49, United States Code (3) Provisions classified in title 45, united states code (A) Railroad revitalization and regulatory reform act of 1976 Section 101 of the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976 ( 45 U.S.C. 801 (i) in subsection (a), in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking It is the purpose of the Congress in this Act to The purpose of this Act and chapter 224 (ii) in subsection (b), in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking It is declared to be the policy of the Congress in this Act The policy of this Act and chapter 224 (B) Railroad infrastructure financing improvement act The Railroad Infrastructure Financing Improvement Act (subtitle F of title XI of Public Law 114–94 (i) in section 11607(b) ( 45 U.S.C. 821 All provisions under sections 502 through 504 of the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976 ( 45 U.S.C. 801 All provisions under section 22402 through 22404 of title 49, United States Code, (ii) in section 11610(b) ( 45 U.S.C. 821 section 502(f) of the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976 ( 45 U.S.C. 822(f) section 22402(f) of title 49, United States Code (C) Transportation equity act for the 21st century Section 7203(b)(2) of the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century ( Public Law 105–178 45 U.S.C. 821 title V of the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976 ( 45 U.S.C. 821 chapter 224 of title 49, United States Code, (D) Hamm alert maritime safety act of 2018 Section 212(d)(1) of Hamm Alert Maritime Safety Act of 2018 (title II of Public Law 115–265 45 U.S.C. 822 for purposes of section 502(f)(4) of the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976 ( 45 U.S.C. 822(f)(4) for purposes of section 22402 of title 49, United States Code (E) Milwaukee railroad restructuring act Section 15(f) of the Milwaukee Railroad Restructuring Act ( 45 U.S.C. 914(f) Section 516 of the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976 ( 45 U.S.C. 836 Section 22404 of title 49, United States Code, (F) Rock island railroad transition and employee assistance act Section 104(b) of the Rock Island Railroad Transition and Employee Assistance Act ( 45 U.S.C. 1003(b) (i) in paragraph (1)— (I) by striking title V of the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976 ( 45 U.S.C. 821 chapter 224 of title 49, United States Code, (II) by striking and section 18(b) of the Milwaukee Railroad Restructuring Act (ii) in paragraph (2), by striking title V of the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976, and section 516 of such Act ( 45 U.S.C. 836 chapter 224 of title 49, United States Code, including section 22404 of such title, (G) Passenger Rail Investment and Improvement Act of 2008 Section 205(g) of the Passenger Rail Investment and Improvement Act of 2008 (division B of Public Law 110–432 49 U.S.C. 24101 title V of the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976 ( 45 U.S.C. 821 chapter 224 of title 49, United States Code (H) Passenger rail reform and investment act of 2015 Section 11311(d) of the Passenger Rail Reform and Investment Act of 2015 ( Public Law 114–94 49 U.S.C. 20101 , and section 502 of the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976 ( 45 U.S.C. 822 (4) Title 49 (A) National surface transportation and innovative finance bureau Section 116(d)(1)(B) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by striking sections 501 through 503 of the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976 ( 45 U.S.C. 821–823 sections 22401 through 22403 (B) Prohibited discrimination Section 306(b) of title 49, United States Code, is amended— (i) by striking chapter 221 or 249 of this title, chapter 221, 224, or 249 of this title, or (ii) by striking , or title V of the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976 ( 45 U.S.C. 821 (C) Grant conditions Section 22905(c)(2)(B) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by striking section 504 of the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976 ( 45 U.S.C. 836 section 22404 (D) Amtrak authority Section 24903 of title 49, United States Code, is amended— (i) in subsection (a)(6), by striking and the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976 ( 45 U.S.C. 801 , the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976 ( 45 U.S.C. 801 (ii) in subsection (c)(2), by striking and the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976 ( 45 U.S.C. 801 , the Railroad Revitalization and Regulatory Reform Act of 1976 ( 45 U.S.C. 801 1302. Substantive criteria and standards Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall update the publicly available credit program guide in accordance with the provisions of chapter 224 1303. Semiannual report on transit-oriented development eligibility Not later than 6 months after the date of enactment of this Act, and every 6 months thereafter, the Secretary shall submit a report to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives (1) the number of applications submitted to the Department for a direct loan or loan guarantee under section 22402(b)(1)(E) of title 49, United States Code, as amended by section 1301; (2) the number of such loans or loan guarantees that were provided to the applicants; and (3) for each such application, the reasons for providing or declining to provide the requested loan or loan guarantee. II Rail 2001. Short title This title may be cited as the Passenger Rail Expansion and Rail Safety Act of 2021 A Authorization of appropriations 2101. Grants to Amtrak (a) Northeast Corridor There are authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary for grants to Amtrak for activities associated with the Northeast Corridor the following amounts: (1) For fiscal year 2022, $1,570,000,000. (2) For fiscal year 2023, $1,100,000,000. (3) For fiscal year 2024, $1,200,000,000. (4) For fiscal year 2025, $1,300,000,000. (5) For fiscal year 2026, $1,400,000,000. (b) National Network There are authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary for grants to Amtrak for activities associated with the National Network the following amounts: (1) For fiscal year 2022, $2,300,000,000. (2) For fiscal year 2023, $2,200,000,000. (3) For fiscal year 2024, $2,450,000,000. (4) For fiscal year 2025, $2,700,000,000. (5) For fiscal year 2026, $3,000,000,000. (c) Oversight The Secretary may withhold up to 0.5 percent from the amount appropriated for each fiscal year pursuant to subsections (a) and (b) for the costs of oversight of Amtrak. (d) State-Supported Route Committee The Secretary may withhold up to $3,000,000 from the amount appropriated for each fiscal year pursuant to subsection (b) for use by the State-Supported Route Committee established under section 24712(a) of title 49, United States Code. (e) Northeast Corridor Commission The Secretary may withhold up to $6,000,000 from the amount appropriated for each fiscal year pursuant to subsection (a) for use by the Northeast Corridor Commission established under section 24905(a) of title 49, United States Code. (f) Interstate rail compacts The Secretary may withhold up to $3,000,000 from the amount appropriated for each fiscal year pursuant to subsection (b) for grants authorized under section 22910 of title 49, United States Code. (g) Accessibility upgrades (1) In general The Secretary shall withhold $50,000,000 from the amount appropriated for each fiscal year pursuant to subsections (a) and (b) for grants to assist Amtrak in financing capital projects to upgrade the accessibility of the national rail passenger transportation system by increasing the number of existing facilities that are compliant with the requirements under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 ( 42 U.S.C. 12101 (2) Savings provision Nothing in paragraph (1) may be construed to prevent Amtrak from using additional funds appropriated pursuant to this section to carry out the activities authorized under such paragraph. (h) Corridor development In addition to the activities authorized under subsection (b), Amtrak may use up to 10 percent of the amounts appropriated under subsection (b) in each fiscal year to support Amtrak-operated corridors selected under section 2306 for— (1) planning and capital costs; and (2) operating assistance consistent with the Federal funding limitations under section 22908 of title 49, United States Code. 2102. Federal Railroad Administration (a) Safety and operations There are authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary for the operations of the Federal Railroad Administration and to carry out railroad safety activities the following amounts: (1) For fiscal year 2022, $248,000,000. (2) For fiscal year 2023, $254,000,000. (3) For fiscal year 2024, $263,000,000. (4) For fiscal year 2025, $271,000,000. (5) For fiscal year 2026, $279,000,000. (b) Railroad research and development There are authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary for the use of the Federal Railroad Administration for activities associated with railroad research and development the following amounts: (1) For fiscal year 2022, $43,000,000. (2) For fiscal year 2023, $44,000,000. (3) For fiscal year 2024, $45,000,000. (4) For fiscal year 2025, $46,000,000. (5) For fiscal year 2026, $47,000,000. (c) Transportation technology center The Secretary may withhold up to $3,000,000 from the amount appropriated for each fiscal year pursuant to subsection (b) for activities authorized under section 20108(d) of title 49, United States Code. (d) Rail Research and Development Center of Excellence The Secretary may withhold up to 10 percent of the amount appropriated for each fiscal year under subsection (b) for grants authorized under section 20108(j) of title 49, United States Code. 2103. Consolidated rail infrastructure and safety improvements grants (a) In general There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary for grants under section 22907 of title 49, United States Code, $1,000,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2022 through 2026. (b) Oversight The Secretary may withhold up to 2 percent from the amount appropriated for each fiscal year pursuant to subsection (a) for the costs of project management oversight of grants authorized under title 49, United States Code. 2104. Railroad Crossing Elimination Program (a) In general There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary for grants under section 22909 of title 49, United States Code, as added by section 2305, $500,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2022 through 2026. (b) Planning projects Not less than 3 percent of the amount appropriated in each fiscal year pursuant to subsection (a) year shall be used for planning projects described in section 22909(d)(6) of title 49, United States Code. (c) Highway-Rail grade crossing safety information and education program Of the amount appropriated under subsection (a) in each fiscal year, 0.25 percent shall be used for contracts or grants to carry out a highway-rail grade crossing safety information and education program— (1) to help prevent and reduce pedestrian, motor vehicle, and other accidents, incidents, injuries, and fatalities; and (2) to improve awareness along railroad rights-of-way and at highway-rail grade crossings. (d) Oversight The Secretary may withhold up to 2 percent from the amount appropriated for each fiscal year pursuant to subsection (a) for the costs of project management oversight of grants authorized under title 49, United States Code. 2105. Restoration and enhancement grants (a) In general There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary for grants under section 22908 of title 49, United States Code, $50,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2022 through 2026. (b) Oversight The Secretary may withhold up to 1 percent of the amount appropriated for each fiscal year pursuant to subsection (a) for the costs of project management oversight of grants authorized under section 22908 of title 49, United States Code. 2106. Federal-State partnership for intercity passenger rail grants (a) In general There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary for grants under section 24911 of title 49, United States Code, $1,500,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2022 through 2026. (b) Oversight The Secretary may withhold up to 2 percent of the amount appropriated under subsection (a) for the costs of project management oversight of grants authorized under title 49, United States Code. 2107. Amtrak Office of Inspector General There are authorized to be appropriated to the Office of Inspector General of Amtrak the following amounts: (1) For fiscal year 2022, $26,500,000. (2) For fiscal year 2023, $27,000,000. (3) For fiscal year 2024, $27,500,000. (4) For fiscal year 2025, $28,000,000. (5) For fiscal year 2026, $28,500,000. B Amtrak reforms 2201. Amtrak findings, mission, and goals (a) Findings Section 24101(a) of title 49, United States Code, is amended— (1) in paragraph (1), by striking between crowded urban areas and in other areas of throughout (2) in paragraph (4), by striking to Amtrak to achieve a performance level sufficient to justify expending public money in order to meet the intercity passenger rail needs of the United States (3) in paragraph (5)— (A) by inserting intercity passenger and commuter (B) by inserting and rural major urban; (4) by adding at the end the following: (9) Long-distance routes are valuable resources of the United States that are used by rural and urban communities. . (b) Goals Section 24101(c) of title 49, United States Code, is amended— (1) by amending paragraph (1) to read as follows: (1) use its best business judgment in acting to maximize the benefits of Federal investments, including— (A) offering competitive fares; (B) increasing revenue from the transportation of mail and express; (C) offering food service that meets the needs of its customers; (D) improving its contracts with rail carriers over whose tracks Amtrak operates; (E) controlling or reducing management and operating costs; and (F) providing economic benefits to the communities it serves; ; (2) in paragraph (11), by striking and (3) in paragraph (12), by striking the period at the end and inserting ; and (4) by adding at the end the following: (13) support and maintain established long-distance routes to provide value to the Nation by serving customers throughout the United States and connecting urban and rural communities. . (c) Increasing revenues Section 24101(d) of title 49, United States Code, is amended to read as follows: (d) Increasing revenues Amtrak is encouraged to make agreements with private sector entities and to undertake initiatives that are consistent with good business judgment and designed to generate additional revenues to advance the goals described in subsection (c). . 2202. Composition of Amtrak’s Board of Directors (a) Selection; composition; chair Section 24302(a) of title 49, United States Code, is amended— (1) in paragraph (1)— (A) in subparagraph (B), by striking President Chief Executive Officer (B) in subparagraph (C), by striking or a (including individuals with disabilities) or of a (2) in paragraph (2), by striking and try to provide adequate and balanced representation of the major geographic regions of the United States served by Amtrak (3) by redesignating paragraph (5) as paragraph (7); and (4) by striking paragraph (4) and inserting the following: (4) Of the individuals appointed pursuant to paragraph (1)(C)— (A) 2 individuals shall reside in or near a location served by a regularly scheduled Amtrak service along the Northeast Corridor; (B) 4 individuals shall reside in or near regions of the United States that are geographically distributed outside of the Northeast Corridor, of whom— (i) 2 individuals shall reside in States served by a long-distance route operated by Amtrak; (ii) 2 individuals shall reside in States served by State-supported routes operated by Amtrak; and (iii) an individual who resides in a State that is served by a State-supported route and a long-distance route may be appointed to serve either position referred to in clauses (i) and (ii); (C) 2 individuals shall reside either— (i) in or near a location served by a regularly scheduled Amtrak service on the Northeast Corridor; or (ii) in a State served by long-distance or State-supported routes; and (D) each individual appointed to the Board pursuant to this paragraph may only fill 1 of the allocations set forth in subparagraphs (A) through (C). (5) The Board shall elect a chairperson and vice chairperson, other than the Chief Executive Officer of Amtrak, from among its membership. The vice chairperson shall act as chairperson in the absence of the chairperson. (6) The Board shall meet at least annually with— (A) representatives of Amtrak employees; (B) representatives of persons with disabilities; and (C) the general public, in an open meeting with a virtual attendance option, to discuss financial performance and service results. . (b) Rule of construction None of the amendments made by subsection (a) may be construed as affecting the term of any director serving on the Amtrak Board of Directors under section 24302(a)(1)(C) of title 49, United States Code, as of the date of enactment of this Act. 2203. Station agents Section 24312 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following: (c) Availability of station agents (1) In general Except as provided in paragraph (2), beginning on the date that is 1 year after the date of enactment of the Passenger Rail Expansion and Rail Safety Act of 2021 (A) that Amtrak owns, or operates service through, as part of a long-distance or Northeast Corridor passenger service route; (B) where at least 1 Amtrak ticket agent was employed on or after October 1, 2017; and (C) for which an average of 40 passengers boarded or deboarded an Amtrak vehicle per day during all of the days in fiscal year 2017 when the station was serviced by Amtrak, regardless of the number of Amtrak vehicles servicing the station per day. (2) Exception Paragraph (1) shall not apply to any station building in which a commuter rail ticket agent has the authority to sell Amtrak tickets. . 2204. Increasing oversight of changes to Amtrak long-distance routes and other intercity services (a) Amtrak annual operations report Section 24315(a)(1) of title 49, United States Code, is amended— (1) in subparagraph (G), by striking and (2) in subparagraph (H), by adding and (3) by adding at the end the following: (I) any change made to a route’s or service’s frequency or station stops; . (b) 5-Year business line plans Section 24320(b)(2) of title 49, United States Code, is amended— (1) by redesignating subparagraphs (B) through (L) as subparagraphs (C) through (M), respectively; and (2) by inserting after subparagraph (A) the following: (B) a detailed description of any plans to permanently change a route’s or service’s frequency or station stops for the service line; . 2205. Improved oversight of Amtrak accounting Section 24317 of title 49, United States Code, is amended— (1) in subsection (a)(2), by striking and costs among Amtrak business lines , including Federal grant funds, and costs among Amtrak service lines (2) by amending subsection (b) to read as follows: (b) Account structure (1) In general The Secretary of Transportation, in consultation with Amtrak, shall define, maintain, and periodically update an account structure and improvements to accounting methodologies, as necessary, to support the Northeast Corridor and the National Network. (2) Notification of substantive changes The Secretary shall notify the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate Committee on Appropriations of the Senate Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives Committee on Appropriations of the House of Representatives (A) the service lines described in section 24320(b)(1); and (B) the asset lines described in section 24320(c)(1). ; (3) in subsection (c), in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by inserting , maintaining, and updating defining (4) in subsection (d), in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by inserting , maintaining, and updating defining (5) by amending subsection (e) to read as follows: (e) Implementation and reporting (1) In general Amtrak, in consultation with the Secretary of Transportation, shall maintain and implement any account structures and improvements defined under subsection (b) to enable Amtrak to produce sources and uses statements for each of the service lines described in section 24320(b)(1) and, as appropriate, each of the asset lines described in section 24320(c)(1), that identify sources and uses of revenues, appropriations, and transfers between accounts. (2) Updated sources and uses statements Not later than 30 days after the implementation of subsection (b), and monthly thereafter, Amtrak shall submit to the Secretary of Transportation updated sources and uses statements for each of the service lines and asset lines referred to in paragraph (1). The Secretary and Amtrak may agree to a different frequency of reporting. ; (6) by striking subsection (h); and (7) by redesignating subsection (i) as subsection (h). 2206. Improved oversight of Amtrak spending (a) Allocation of costs and revenues Section 24318(a) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by striking Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of the Passenger Rail Reform and Investment Act of 2015, (b) Grant process and reporting Section 24319 of title 49, United States Code, is amended— (1) in the section heading, by inserting and reporting process (2) by amending subsection (a) to read as follows: (a) Procedures for grant requests The Secretary of Transportation shall— (1) establish and maintain substantive and procedural requirements, including schedules, for grant requests under this section; and (2) report any changes to such procedures to— (A) the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate (B) the Committee on Appropriations of the Senate (C) the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives (D) the Committee on Appropriations of the House of Representatives ; (3) by amending subsection (c) to read as follows: (c) Contents (1) In general Each grant request under subsection (b) shall, as applicable— (A) categorize and identify, by source, the Federal funds and program income that will be used for the upcoming fiscal year for each of the Northeast Corridor and National Network in 1 of the categories or subcategories set forth in paragraph (2); (B) describe the operations, services, programs, projects, and other activities to be funded within each of the categories set forth in paragraph (2), including— (i) the estimated scope, schedule, and budget necessary to complete each project and program; and (ii) the performance measures used to quantify expected and actual project outcomes and benefits, aggregated by fiscal year, project milestone, and any other appropriate grouping; and (C) describe the status of efforts to improve Amtrak’s safety culture. (2) Grant categories (A) Operating expenses Each grant request to use Federal funds for operating expenses shall— (i) include estimated net operating costs not covered by other Amtrak revenue sources; (ii) specify Federal funding requested for each service line described in section 24320(b)(1); and (iii) be itemized by route. (B) Debt service A grant request to use Federal funds for expenses related to debt, including payment of principle and interest, as allowed under section 205 of the Passenger Rail Investment and Improvement Act of 2008 ( Public Law 110–432 49 U.S.C. 24101 (C) Capital A grant request to use Federal funds and program income for capital expenses shall include capital projects and programs primarily associated with— (i) normalized capital replacement programs, including regularly recurring work programs implemented on a systematic basis on classes of physical railroad assets, such as track, structures, electric traction and power systems, rolling stock, and communications and signal systems, to maintain and sustain the condition and performance of such assets to support continued railroad operations; (ii) improvement projects to support service and safety enhancements, including discrete projects implemented in accordance with a fixed scope, schedule, and budget that result in enhanced or new infrastructure, equipment, or facilities; (iii) backlog capital replacement projects, including discrete projects implemented in accordance with a fixed scope, schedule, and budget that primarily replace or rehabilitate major infrastructure assets, including tunnels, bridges, stations, and similar assets, to reduce the state of good repair backlog on the Amtrak network; (iv) strategic initiative projects, including discrete projects implemented in accordance with a fixed scope, schedule, and budget that primarily improve overall operational performance, lower costs, or otherwise improve Amtrak’s corporate efficiency; and (v) statutory, regulatory, or other legally mandated projects, including discrete projects implemented in accordance with a fixed scope, schedule, and budget that enable Amtrak to fulfill specific legal or regulatory mandates. (D) Contingency A grant request to use Federal funds for operating and capital expense contingency shall include— (i) contingency levels for specified activities and operations; and (ii) a process for the utilization of such contingency. (3) Modification of categories The Secretary of Transportation and Amtrak may jointly agree to modify the categories set forth in paragraph (2) if such modifications are necessary to improve the transparency, oversight, or delivery of projects funded through grant requests under this section. ; (4) in subsection (d)(1)(A)— (A) by inserting complete submits a (B) by striking shall complete shall finish (C) in clause (ii), by striking incomplete or (5) in subsection (e)— (A) in paragraph (1)— (i) by striking and other activities to be funded by the grant programs, projects, and other activities to be funded by the grant, consistent with the categories required for Amtrak in a grant request under subsection (c)(1)(A) (ii) by striking or activities programs, projects, and other activities (B) in paragraph (3)— (i) by redesignating subparagraphs (A) and (B) as subparagraphs (B) and (C), respectively; and (ii) by inserting before subparagraph (B), as redesignated, the following: (A) using an otherwise allowable approach to the method prescribed for a specific project or category of projects under paragraph (2) if the Secretary and Amtrak agree that a different payment method is necessary to more successfully implement and report on an operation, service, program, project, or other activity; ; (6) by redesignating subsection (h) as subsection (j); and (7) by inserting after subsection (g) the following: (h) Applicable laws and regulations (1) Single Audit Act of 1984 Notwithstanding section 24301(a)(3) of this title and section 7501(a)(13) of title 31, Amtrak shall be deemed a non-Federal entity chapter 75 (2) Regulations and guidance The Secretary of Transportation may apply some or all of the requirements set forth in the regulations and guidance promulgated by the Secretary relating to the management, administration, cost principles, and audit requirements for Federal awards. (i) Amtrak grant reporting The Secretary of Transportation shall determine the varying levels of detail and information that will be included in reports for operations, services, program, projects, program income, cash on hand, and other activities within each of the grant categories described in subsection (c)(2). . (c) Conforming amendments (1) Reports and audits Section 24315(b)(1) of title 49, United States Code, is amended— (A) in subparagraph (A), by striking the goal of section 24902(b) of this title; and the goal described in section 24902(a); (B) in subparagraph (B), by striking the period at the end and inserting ; and (C) by adding at the end the following: (C) shall incorporate the categories described in section 24319(c)(2). . (2) Clerical amendment The analysis for chapter 243 24319. Grant process and reporting. . 2207. Increasing service line and asset line plan transparency (a) In general Section 24320 of title 49, United States Code, is amended— (1) in the section heading, by striking business line and asset plans service line and asset line plans (2) in subsection (a)— (A) in paragraph (1)— (i) by striking of each year , 2020, and biennially thereafter (ii) by striking 5-year business line plans and 5-year asset plans 5-year service line plans and 5-year asset line plans (iii) by adding at the end the following: During each year in which Amtrak is not required to submit a plan under this paragraph, Amtrak shall submit to Congress updated financial sources and uses statements and forecasts with the annual report required under section 24315(b). (B) in paragraph (2), by striking asset plan required in asset line plan required under (3) in subsection (b)— (A) in the subsection heading, by striking business service (B) in paragraph (1)— (i) in the paragraph heading, by striking business service (ii) by striking business service (iii) by amending subparagraph (B) to read as follows: (B) Amtrak State-supported train services. ; (iv) in subparagraph (C), by striking routes train services (v) by adding at the end the following: (E) Infrastructure access services for use of Amtrak-owned or Amtrak-controlled infrastructure and facilities. ; (C) in paragraph (2)— (i) in the paragraph heading, by striking business service (ii) by striking business service (iii) in subparagraph (A), by striking Strategic Plan and 5-year asset plans 5-year asset line plans (iv) in subparagraph (F) (as redesignated by section 2204(b)(1)), by striking profit and loss sources and uses (v) by striking subparagraph (G) (as redesignated by section 2204(b)(1)); (vi) by redesignating subparagraphs (H) through (M) (as redesignated by section 2204(b)(1)) as subparagraphs (G) through (L), respectively; and (vii) by amending subparagraph (I) (as so redesignated) to read as follows: (I) financial performance for each route, if deemed applicable by the Secretary, within each service line, including descriptions of the cash operating loss or contribution; ; (D) in paragraph (3)— (i) in the paragraph heading, by striking business service (ii) by striking business service (iii) by redesignating subparagraphs (A), (B), (C), and (D) as clauses (i), (ii), (iii), and (iv), respectively, and moving such clauses 2 ems to the right; (iv) by inserting before clause (i), as redesignated, the following: (A) not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of the Passenger Rail Expansion and Rail Safety Act of 2021 ; (v) in subparagraph (A), as amended by clause (iv)— (I) in clause (iii), as redesignated, by inserting and submit the final service line plan required under subsection (a)(1) to the State-Supported Route Committee (II) in clause (iv), as redesignated, by inserting and (III) by adding at the end the following: (v) for the infrastructure access service line plan, consult with the Northeast Corridor Commission and other entities, as appropriate, and submit the final asset line plan under subsection (a)(1) to the Northeast Corridor Commission; ; and (vi) by redesignating subparagraphs (E) and (F) as subparagraphs (B) and (C), respectively; (E) by redesignating paragraph (4) as paragraph (5); and (F) by inserting after paragraph (3)(C), as redesignated, the following: (4) 5-year service line plans updates Amtrak may modify the service line plans described in paragraph (1), upon the approval of the Secretary, if the Secretary determines that such modifications are necessary to improve the transparency, oversight, and delivery of Amtrak services and the use of Federal funds by Amtrak. ; and (4) in subsection (c)— (A) in the subsection heading, by inserting line asset (B) in paragraph (1)— (i) in the paragraph heading, by striking categories lines (ii) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking asset plan for each of the following asset categories asset line plan for each of the following asset lines (iii) by redesignating subparagraphs (A), (B), (C), and (D) as subparagraphs (B), (C), (D), and (E), respectively; (iv) by inserting before subparagraph (B), as redesignated, the following: (A) Transportation, including activities and resources associated with the operation and movement of Amtrak trains, onboard services, and amenities. ; (v) in subparagraph (B), as redesignated, by inserting and maintenance-of-way equipment facilities (vi) in subparagraph (C), as redesignated, by striking Passenger rail equipment Equipment (C) in paragraph (2)— (i) in the paragraph heading, by inserting line asset (ii) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by inserting line asset (iii) in subparagraph (A), by striking category line (iv) in subparagraph (C)(iii)(III), by striking and (v) by amending subparagraph (D) to read as follows: (D) annual sources and uses statements and forecasts for each asset line; and ; and (vi) by adding at the end the following: (E) other elements that Amtrak elects to include. ; (D) in paragraph (3)— (i) in the paragraph heading, by inserting line asset (ii) by redesignating subparagraphs (A) and (B) as clauses (i) and (ii) and moving such clauses 2 ems to the right; (iii) by inserting before clause (i), as redesignated, the following: (A) not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of the Passenger Rail Expansion and Rail Safety Act of 2021 ; (iv) in subparagraph (A), as added by clause (iii)— (I) in clause (i), as redesignated— (aa) by striking business service (bb) by inserting line asset (cc) by adding and (II) in clause (ii), as redesignated— (aa) by inserting consult with the Secretary of Transportation in the development of asset line plans and, as applicable (bb) by inserting line 5-year asset (v) by redesignating subparagraph (C) as subparagraph (B); and (vi) in subparagraph (B), as redesignated, by striking category line (E) by redesignating paragraphs (4), (5), (6), and (7) as paragraphs (5), (6), (7), and (8), respectively; (F) by inserting after paragraph (3) the following: (4) 5-year asset line plan updates Amtrak may modify the asset line plans described in paragraph (1) if the Secretary determines that such modifications are necessary to improve the transparency, oversight, and delivery of Amtrak services and the use of Federal funds by Amtrak. ; (G) in paragraph (5)(A), as redesignated, by inserting , but shall not include corporate services (as defined pursuant to section 24317(b)) national assets (H) in paragraph (7), as redesignated, by striking paragraph (4) paragraph (5) (b) Clerical amendment The analysis for chapter 243 24320. Amtrak 5-year service line and asset line plans. (c) Effective dates Section 11203(b) of the Passenger Rail Reform and Investment Act of 2015 ( 49 U.S.C. 24320 (1) by striking business service (2) by inserting line asset 2208. Passenger experience enhancement (a) In general Section 24305(c)(4) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by striking only if revenues from the services each year at least equal the cost of providing the services (b) Food and beverage service working group (1) In general Section 24321 of title 49, United States Code, is amended to read as follows: 24321. Food and beverage service (a) Working group (1) Establishment Not later than 180 days after enactment of the Passenger Rail Expansion and Rail Safety Act of 2021 (2) Membership The working group shall consist of individuals representing— (A) Amtrak; (B) the labor organizations representing Amtrak employees who prepare or provide on-board food and beverage service; (C) nonprofit organizations representing Amtrak passengers; and (D) States that are providing funding for State-supported routes. (b) Report Not later than 1 year after the establishment of the working group pursuant to subsection (a), the working group shall submit a report to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives containing recommendations for improving Amtrak’s food and beverage service, including— (1) ways to improve the financial performance of Amtrak; (2) ways to increase and retain ridership; (3) the differing needs of passengers traveling on long-distance routes, State supported routes, and the Northeast Corridor; (4) Amtrak passenger survey data about the food and beverages offered on Amtrak trains; (5) ways to incorporate local food and beverage items on State-supported routes; and (6) any other issue that the working group determines to be appropriate. (c) Implementation Not later than 180 days after the submission of the report pursuant to subsection (b), Amtrak shall submit a plan for implementing the recommendations of the working group, and an explanation for any of the working group’s recommendations it does not agree with and does not plan on implementing to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives (d) Savings clause Amtrak shall ensure that no Amtrak employee who held a position on a long distance or Northeast Corridor route as of the date of enactment of the Passenger Rail Expansion and Rail Safety Act of 2021 . (2) Clerical amendment The analysis for chapter 243 24321. Food and beverage service. 2209. Amtrak smoking policy (a) In general Chapter 243 24323. Prohibition on smoking on Amtrak trains (a) Prohibition Beginning on the date of enactment of this section, Amtrak shall prohibit smoking, including the use of electronic cigarettes, onboard all Amtrak trains. (b) Electronic cigarette defined In this section, the term electronic cigarette . (b) Conforming amendment The analysis for chapter 243 24323. Prohibition on smoking on Amtrak trains. . 2210. Protecting Amtrak routes through rural communities Section 24706 of title 49, United States Code, is amended— (1) in subsection (a), by striking subsection (b) of this section, at least 180 days subsection (c), not later than 180 days (2) by redesignating subsections (b) and (c) as subsections (c) and (e), respectively; (3) by inserting after subsection (a) the following: (b) Discontinuance or substantial alteration of long-Distance routes Except as provided in subsection (c), in an emergency, or during maintenance or construction outages impacting Amtrak routes, Amtrak may not discontinue, reduce the frequency of, suspend, or substantially alter the route of rail service on any segment of any long-distance route in any fiscal year in which Amtrak receives adequate Federal funding for such route on the National Network. ; and (4) by inserting after subsection (c), as redesignated, the following: (d) Congressional notification of discontinuance Except as provided in subsection (c), not later than 210 days before discontinuing service over a route, Amtrak shall give written notice of such discontinuance to all of the members of Congress representing any State or district in which the discontinuance would occur. . 2211. State-Supported Route Committee (a) State-Supported Route Committee Section 24712(a) of title 49, United States Code, is amended— (1) in paragraph (1)— (A) by striking Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of the Passenger Rail Reform and Investment Act of 2015, the Secretary of Transportation shall establish There is established (B) by inserting current and future rail operations (2) by redesignating paragraphs (4), (5), and (6) as paragraphs (5), (6), and (7), respectively; (3) by inserting after paragraph (3) the following: (4) Ability to conduct certain business If all of the members of 1 voting bloc described in paragraph (3) abstain from a Committee decision, agreement between the other 2 voting blocs consistent with the procedures set forth in such paragraph shall be deemed sufficient for purpose of achieving unanimous consent. ; (4) in paragraph (5), as redesignated, in the matter preceding subparagraph (A)— (A) by striking convene a meeting and shall define and implement define and periodically update (B) by striking not later than 180 days after the date of establishment of the Committee by the Secretary (5) in paragraph (7), as redesignated— (A) in the paragraph heading, by striking allocation methodology methodology policy (B) in subparagraph (A), by striking allocation methodology methodology policy (C) by amending subparagraph (B) to read as follows: (B) Revisions to cost methodology policy (i) Requirement to revise and update Subject to rules and procedures established pursuant to clause (iii), not later than March 31, 2022, the Committee shall revise and update the cost methodology policy required and previously approved under section 209 of the Passenger Rail Investment and Improvement Act of 2008 ( 49 U.S.C. 20901 Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives (ii) Implementation impacts on Federal funding To the extent that a revision developed pursuant to clause (i) assigns to Amtrak costs that were previously allocated to States, Amtrak shall request with specificity such additional funding in the general and legislative annual report required under section 24315 or in any appropriate subsequent Federal funding request for the fiscal year in which the revised cost methodology policy will be implemented. (iii) Procedures for changing methodology Notwithstanding section 209(b) of the Passenger Rail Investment and Improvement Act of 2008 ( 49 U.S.C. 20901 (I) procedures for changing the cost methodology policy in accordance with clause (i); and (II) procedures or broad guidelines for conducting financial planning, including operating and capital forecasting, reporting, data sharing, and governance. ; (D) in subparagraph (C)— (i) in the matter preceding clause (i), by striking allocation methodology methodology policy (ii) in clause (i), by striking and (iii) in clause (ii)— (I) by striking allocate assign (II) by striking the period and inserting ; and (iv) by adding at the end the following: (iii) promote increased efficiency in Amtrak’s operating and capital activities. ; and (E) by adding at the end the following: (D) Independent evaluation Not later than March 31 of each year, the Committee shall ensure that an independent entity selected by the Committee has completed an evaluation to determine whether State payments for the most recently concluded fiscal year are accurate and comply with the applicable cost allocation methodology. . (b) Invoices and reports Section 24712(b) of title 49, United States Code, is amended to read as follows: (b) Invoices and reports (1) Invoices Amtrak shall provide monthly invoices to the Committee and to each State that sponsors a State-supported route that identify the operating costs for such route, including fixed costs and third-party costs. (2) Reports (A) In general The Committee shall determine the frequency and contents of— (i) the financial and performance reports that Amtrak is required to provide to the Committee and the States; and (ii) the planning and demand reports that the States are required to provide to the Committee and Amtrak. (B) Monthly statistical report (i) Development Consistent with the revisions to the policy required under subsection (a)(7)(B), the Committee shall develop a report that contains the general ledger data and operating statistics from Amtrak’s accounting systems used to calculate payments to States. (ii) Provision of necessary data Not later than 30 days after the last day of each month, Amtrak shall provide to the States and to the Committee the necessary data to complete the report developed pursuant to clause (i) for such month. . (c) Dispute resolution Section 24712(c) of title 49, United States Code, is amended— (1) in paragraph (1)— (A) by striking (a)(4) (a)(5) (B) by striking (a)(6) (a)(7) (2) in paragraph (4), by inserting related to a State-supported route that a State sponsors that is amount (d) Performance metrics Section 24712(e) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by inserting , including incentives to increase revenue, reduce costs, finalize contracts by the beginning of the fiscal year, and require States to promptly make payments for services delivered (e) Statement of goals and objectives Section 24712(f) of title 49, United States Code, is amended— (1) in paragraph (1), by inserting , and review and update, as necessary, shall develop (2) in paragraph (2), by striking Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of the Passenger Rail Reform and Investment Act of 2015, the Committee shall transmit the statement As applicable, based on updates, the Committee shall submit an updated statement (3) by adding at the end the following: (3) Sense of Congress It is the sense of Congress that— (A) the Committee shall be the forum where Amtrak and the States collaborate on the planning, improvement, and development of corridor routes across the National Network; and (B) such collaboration should include regular consultation with interstate rail compact parties and other regional planning organizations that address passenger rail. . (f) Other reforms related to State-Supported routes Section 24712 of title 49, United States Code, as amended by subsections (a) through (e), is further amended— (1) by redesignating subsections (g) and (h) as subsections (k) and (l), respectively; and (2) by inserting after subsection (f) the following: (g) New State-Supported routes (1) Consultation In developing a new State-supported route, Amtrak shall consult with— (A) the State or States and local municipalities through which such new service would operate; (B) commuter authorities and regional transportation authorities in the areas that would be served by the planned route; (C) host railroads; (D) the Administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration; and (E) other stakeholders, as appropriate. (2) State commitments Notwithstanding any other provision of law, before beginning construction necessary for, or beginning operation of, a State-supported route that is initiated on or after the date of enactment of the Passenger Rail Expansion and Rail Safety Act of 2021 (A) ongoing operating costs and capital costs in accordance with the cost methodology policy referred to in subsection (a)(7) then in effect; or (B) ongoing operating costs and capital costs in accordance with the maximum funding limitations described in section 22908(e). (3) Application of terms In this subsection, the terms capital costs operating costs (h) Cost methodology policy update implementation report Not later than 18 months after the updated cost methodology policy required under subsection (a)(7)(B) is implemented, the Committee shall submit a report to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives (i) Identification of State-Supported route changes Amtrak shall— (1) not later than 120 days before the submission of the general and legislative annual report required under section 24315(b), consult with the Committee and any additional States through which a State-supported route may operate regarding any proposed changes to such route; and (2) include in such report an update of any planned or proposed changes to State-supported routes, including the introduction of new State-supported routes, including— (A) the timeframe in which such changes would take effect; and (B) whether Amtrak has entered into commitments with the affected States pursuant subsection (g)(2). (j) Economic analysis Not later than 3 years after the date of enactment of the Passenger Rail Expansion and Rail Safety Act of 2021 Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives (1) describes the role of the State-supported routes in economic development; and (2) examines the impacts of the State-supported routes on local station areas, job creation, transportation efficiency, State economies, and the national economy. . 2212. Enhancing cross border service (a) In general Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, Amtrak, after consultation with the Secretary, the Secretary of Homeland Security, relevant State departments of transportation, Canadian governmental agencies and entities, and owners of the relevant rail infrastructure and facilities, shall submit a report to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives (1) identifies challenges to Amtrak operations in Canada, including delays associated with custom and immigration inspections in both the United States and Canada; and (2) includes recommendations to improve such cross border service, including the feasibility of and costs associated with a preclearance facility or facilities. (b) Assistance and support The Secretary, the Secretary of State, and the Secretary of Homeland Security may provide assistance and support requested by Amtrak that is necessary to carry out this section, as determined appropriate by the respective Secretary. 2213. Creating quality jobs Section 121 of the Amtrak Reform and Accountability Act of 1997 ( 49 U.S.C. 24312 (1) by redesignating subsection (d) as subsection (f); and (2) by inserting after subsection (c) the following: (d) Furloughed work Amtrak may not contract out work within the classification of work performed by an employee in a bargaining unit covered by a collective bargaining agreement entered into between Amtrak and an organization representing Amtrak employees during the period such employee has been laid off and has not been recalled to perform such work. (e) Agreement prohibitions on contracting out This section does not— (1) supersede a prohibition or limitation on contracting out work covered by an agreement entered into between Amtrak and an organization representing Amtrak employees; or (2) prohibit Amtrak and an organization representing Amtrak employees from entering into an agreement that allows for contracting out the work of a furloughed employee that would otherwise be prohibited under subsection (d). . C Intercity passenger rail policy 2301. Northeast Corridor planning Section 24904 of title 49, United States Code, is amended— (1) by striking subsections (a) and (d); (2) by redesignating subsections (b) and (c) as subsections (c) and (d), respectively; (3) by inserting before subsection (c), as redesignated, the following: (a) Northeast Corridor service development plan (1) In general Not later than March 31, 2022, the Northeast Corridor Commission established under section 24905 (referred to in this section as the Commission (2) Contents The plan required under paragraph (1) shall— (A) identify key state-of-good-repair, capacity expansion, and capital improvement projects planned for the Northeast Corridor; (B) provide a coordinated and consensus-based plan covering a 15-year period; (C) identify service objectives and the capital investments required to meet such objectives; (D) provide a delivery-constrained strategy that identifies— (i) capital investment phasing; (ii) an evaluation of workforce needs; and (iii) strategies for managing resources and mitigating construction impacts on operations; and (E) include a financial strategy that identifies funding needs and potential funding sources. (3) Updates The Commission shall update the service development plan not less frequently than once every 5 years. (b) Northeast Corridor capital investment plan (1) In general Not later than November 1 of each year, the Commission shall— (A) develop an annual capital investment plan for the Northeast Corridor; and (B) submit the capital investment plan to— (i) the Secretary of Transportation; (ii) the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate (iii) the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives (2) Contents The plan required under paragraph (1) shall— (A) reflect coordination across the entire Northeast Corridor; (B) integrate the individual capital plans developed by Amtrak, States, and commuter authorities in accordance with the cost allocation policy developed and approved under section 24905(c); (C) cover a period of 5 fiscal years, beginning with the fiscal year during which the plan is submitted; (D) notwithstanding section 24902(b), document the projects and programs being undertaken to advance the service objectives and capital investments identified in the Northeast Corridor service development plan developed under subsection (a), and the asset condition needs identified in the Northeast Corridor asset management plans, after considering— (i) the benefits and costs of capital investments in the plan; (ii) project and program readiness; (iii) the operational impacts; and (iv) Federal and non-Federal funding availability; (E) categorize capital projects and programs as primarily associated with 1 of the categories listed under section 24319(c)(2)(C); (F) identify capital projects and programs that are associated with more than 1 category described in subparagraph (E); and (G) include a financial plan that identifies— (i) funding sources and financing methods; (ii) the status of cost sharing agreements pursuant to the cost allocation policy developed under section 24905(c); (iii) the projects and programs that the Commission expects will receive Federal financial assistance; and (iv) the eligible entity or entities that the Commission expects— (I) to receive the Federal financial assistance referred to in clause (iii); and (II) to implement each capital project. (3) Review and coordination The Commission shall require that the information described in paragraph (2) be submitted in a timely manner to allow for a reasonable period of review by, and coordination with, affected agencies before the Commission submits the capital investment plan pursuant to paragraph (1). ; (4) in subsection (c), as redesignated, by striking spent only on— spent only on capital projects and programs contained in the Commission’s capital investment plan for the prior fiscal year. (5) by amending subsection (d), as redesignated, to read as follows: (d) Northeast Corridor capital asset management system (1) In general Amtrak and other infrastructure owners that provide or support intercity rail passenger transportation along the Northeast Corridor shall develop an asset management system and use and update such system, as necessary, to develop submissions to the Northeast Corridor capital investment plan described in subsection (b). (2) Features The system required under paragraph (1) shall develop submissions that— (A) are consistent with the transit asset management system (as defined in section 5326(a)(3)); and (B) include— (i) an inventory of all capital assets owned by the developer of the plan; (ii) an assessment of condition of such capital assets; (iii) a description of the resources and processes that will be necessary to bring or to maintain such capital assets in a state of good repair; and (iv) a description of changes in the condition of such capital assets since the submission of the prior version of the plan. . 2302. Northeast Corridor Commission Section 24905 of title 49, United States Code, is amended— (1) in subsection (a)(1)(D), by inserting authorities carriers (2) in subsection (b)(3)(B)— (A) in clause (i)— (i) by inserting , including ridership trends, transportation (ii) by striking and (B) in clause (ii)— (i) by inserting first year of the the delivery of the (ii) by striking the period at the end and inserting ; and (C) by adding at the end the following: (iii) progress in assessing and eliminating the state-of-good-repair backlog. ; (3) in subsection (c)— (A) in paragraph (1)— (i) in the paragraph heading, by striking Development of policy Policy (ii) in subparagraph (A), by striking develop a standardized policy develop and maintain the standardized policy first approved on September 17, 2015, and update, as appropriate, (iii) by amending subparagraph (B) to read as follows: (B) develop timetables for implementing and maintaining the policy; ; (iv) in subparagraph (C), by striking the policy and the timetable updates to the policy and timetables (v) by amending subparagraph (D) to read as follows: (D) support the efforts of the members of the Commission to implement the policy in accordance with the timetables developed pursuant to subparagraph (B); ; (B) by amending paragraph (2) to read as follows: (2) Implementation (A) In general In accordance with the timetables developed pursuant to paragraph (1)(B), Amtrak and commuter authorities on the Northeast Corridor shall implement the policy developed under paragraph (1) in their agreements for usage of facilities or services. (B) Effect of failure to implement or comply with policy If the entities referred to in subparagraph (A) fail to implement the policy in accordance with paragraph (1)(D) or fail to comply with the policy thereafter, the Surface Transportation Board shall— (i) determine the appropriate compensation in accordance with the procedures and procedural schedule applicable to a proceeding under section 24903(c), after taking into consideration the policy developed under paragraph (1); and (ii) enforce its determination on the party or parties involved. ; and (C) in paragraph (4), by striking public authorities providing commuter rail passenger transportation commuter authorities (4) in subsection (d)— (A) by striking 2016 through 2020 2022 through 2026 (B) by striking section 11101(g) of the Passenger Rail Reform and Investment Act of 2015 section 101(e) of the Passenger Rail Expansion and Rail Safety Act of 2021 2303. Consolidated rail infrastructure and safety improvements (a) In general Section 22907 of title 49, United States Code, is amended— (1) in subsection (b)— (A) in paragraph (1), by inserting (including the District of Columbia) State (B) in paragraph (6), by inserting rail carrier and intercity rail passenger transportation are defined (C) by redesignating paragraphs (8) through (11) as paragraphs (10) through (13), respectively; and (D) by inserting after paragraph (7) the following: (8) An association representing 1 or more railroads described in paragraph (7). ; (9) A federally recognized Indian Tribe. ; (2) in subsection (c)— (A) in paragraph (3), by adding or safety congestion (B) in paragraph (6), by striking and or (C) by redesignating paragraphs (11) and (12) as paragraphs (12) and (13), respectively; (D) by inserting after paragraph (10) the following: (11) The development and implementation of measures to prevent trespassing and reduce associated injuries and fatalities. ; and (E) by inserting after paragraph (13), as redesignated, the following: (14) Research, development, and testing to advance and facilitate innovative rail projects, including projects using electromagnetic guideways in an enclosure in a very low-pressure environment. (15) The preparation of emergency plans for communities through which hazardous materials are transported by rail. ; and (3) in subsection (h), by adding at the end the following: (4) Grade crossing and trespassing projects Applicants may use costs incurred previously for preliminary engineering associated with highway-rail grade crossing improvement projects under subsection (c)(5) and trespassing prevention projects under subsection (c)(11) to satisfy the non-Federal share requirements. . (b) Rule of construction The amendments made by subsection (a) may not be construed to affect any grant, including any application for a grant, made under section 22907 of title 49, United States Code, before the date of enactment of this Act. (c) Technical correction (1) In general Section 22907(l)(1)(A) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by inserting , including highway construction over rail facilities as an alternative to construction or improvement of a highway-rail grade crossing, under chapter 227 (2) Applicability The amendment made by paragraph (1) shall apply to amounts remaining under section 22907(l) of title 49, United States Code, from appropriations for prior fiscal years. 2304. Restoration and enhancement grants Section 22908 of title 49, United States Code, is amended— (1) by amending subsection (a) to read as follows: (a) Definitions In this section: (1) Applicant Notwithstanding section 22901(1), the term applicant (A) a State, including the District of Columbia; (B) a group of States; (C) an entity implementing an interstate compact; (D) a public agency or publicly chartered authority established by 1 or more States; (E) a political subdivision of a State; (F) a federally recognized Indian Tribe; (G) Amtrak or another rail carrier that provides intercity rail passenger transportation; (H) any rail carrier in partnership with at least 1 of the entities described in subparagraphs (A) through (F); and (I) any combination of the entities described in subparagraphs (A) through (F). (2) Operating assistance The term operating assistance Public Law 110–432 ; (2) in subsection (c)(3), by striking 3 years 6 years (3) in subsection (d)— (A) in paragraph (8), by striking and (B) in paragraph (9), by striking the period at the end and inserting ; and (C) by adding at the end the following: (10) for routes selected under the Corridor Identification and Development Program and operated by Amtrak. ; and (4) in subsection (e)— (A) in paragraph (1)— (i) by striking assistance (ii) by striking 3 years 6 years (including for any such routes selected for funding before the date of enactment of the Passenger Rail Expansion and Rail Safety Act of 2021 (B) in paragraph (3), by striking subparagraphs (A), (B), and (C) and inserting the following: (A) 90 percent of the projected net operating costs for the first year of service; (B) 80 percent of the projected net operating costs for the second year of service; (C) 70 percent of the projected net operating costs for the third year of service; (D) 60 percent of the projected net operating costs for the fourth year of service; (E) 50 percent of the projected net operating costs for the fifth year of service; and (F) 30 percent of the projected net operating costs for the sixth year of service. . 2305. Railroad Crossing Elimination Program (a) In general Chapter 229 22909. Railroad Crossing Elimination Program (a) In general The Secretary of Transportation, in cooperation with the Administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration, shall establish a competitive grant program (referred to in this section as the Program (b) Goals The goals of the Program are— (1) to eliminate highway-rail grade crossings that are frequently blocked by trains; (2) to improve the health and safety of communities; (3) to reduce the impacts that freight movement and railroad operations may have on underserved communities; and (4) to improve the mobility of people and goods. (c) Eligible recipients The following entities are eligible to receive a grant under this section: (1) A State, including the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and other United States territories and possessions. (2) A political subdivision of a State. (3) A federally recognized Indian Tribe. (4) A unit of local government or a group of local governments. (5) A public port authority. (6) A metropolitan planning organization. (7) A group of entities described in any of paragraphs (1) through (6). (d) Eligible projects The Secretary may award a grant under the Program for a highway-rail or pathway-rail grade crossing improvement project (including acquiring real property interests) involving— (1) grade separation or closure, including through the use of a bridge, embankment, tunnel, or combination thereof; (2) track relocation; (3) the improvement or installation of protective devices, signals, signs, or other measures to improve safety, provided that such activities are related to a separation or relocation project described in paragraph (1) or (2); (4) other means to improve the safety and mobility of people and goods at highway-rail grade crossings (including technological solutions); (5) a group of related projects described in paragraphs (1) through (4) that would collectively improve the mobility of people and goods; or (6) the planning, environmental review, and design of an eligible project described in paragraphs (1) through (5). (e) Application process (1) In general An eligible entity seeking a grant under the Program shall submit an application to the Secretary at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary may require. (2) Railroad approvals (A) In general Except as provided in subparagraph (B), the Secretary shall require applicants to obtain the necessary approvals from any impacted rail carriers or real property owners before proceeding with the construction of a project funded by a grant under the Program. (B) Exception The requirement under subparagraph (A) shall not apply to planning projects described in subsection (d)(6) if the applicant agrees to work collaboratively with rail carriers and right-of-way owners. (f) Project selection criteria (1) In general In awarding grants under the Program, the Secretary shall evaluate the extent to which proposed projects would— (A) improve safety at highway-rail or pathway-rail grade crossings; (B) grade separate, eliminate, or close highway-rail or pathway-rail grade crossings; (C) improve the mobility of people and goods; (D) reduce emissions, protect the environment, and provide community benefits, including noise reduction; (E) improve access to emergency services; (F) provide economic benefits; and (G) improve access to communities separated by rail crossings. (2) Additional considerations In awarding grants under the Program, the Secretary shall consider— (A) the degree to which the proposed project will use— (i) innovative technologies; (ii) innovative design and construction techniques; or (iii) construction materials that reduce greenhouse gas emissions; (B) the applicant’s planned use of contracting incentives to employ local labor, to the extent permissible under Federal law; (C) whether the proposed project will improve the mobility of— (i) multiple modes of transportation, including ingress and egress from freight facilities; or (ii) users of nonvehicular modes of transportation, such as pedestrians, bicyclists, and public transportation; (D) whether the proposed project is identified in— (i) the freight investment plan component of a State freight plan, as required under section 70202(b)(9); (ii) a State rail plan prepared in accordance with chapter 227; or (iii) a State highway-rail grade crossing action plan, as required under section 11401(b) of the Passenger Rail Reform and Investment Act of 2015 (title XI of Public Law 114–94 (E) the level of financial support provided by impacted rail carriers. (3) Award distribution In selecting grants for Program funds in any fiscal year, the Secretary shall comply with the following limitations: (A) Grant funds Not less than 20 percent of the grant funds available for the Program in any fiscal year shall be reserved for projects located in rural areas or on Tribal lands. The requirement under section 22907(l), which applies to this section, shall not apply to grant funds reserved specifically under this subsection. (B) Planning grants Not less than 25 percent of the grant funds set aside for planning projects in any fiscal year pursuant to section 2104(b) of the Passenger Rail Expansion and Rail Safety Act of 2021 (C) State limitation Not more than 20 percent of the grant funds available for the Program in any fiscal year may be selected for projects in any single State. (D) Minimum size No grant awarded under this section shall be for less than $1,000,000, except for a planning grant described in subsection (d)(6). (g) Cost share Except as provided in paragraph (2), the Federal share of the cost of a project carried out using a grant under the Program may not exceed 80 percent of the total cost of the project. Applicants may count costs incurred for preliminary engineering associated with highway-rail and pathway-rail grade crossing improvement projects as part of the total project costs. (h) Congressional notification Not later than 3 days before awarding a grant for a project under the Program, the Secretary shall submit written notification of the proposed grant to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives (1) a summary of the project; and (2) the amount of the proposed grant award. (i) Annual report Not later than 60 days after each round of award notifications, the Secretary shall post, on the public website of the Department of Transportation— (1) a list of all eligible applicants that submitted an application for funding under the Program during the current fiscal year; (2) a list of the grant recipients and projects that received grant funding under the Program during such fiscal year; and (3) a list of the proposed projects and applicants that were determined to be ineligible. (j) Defined term In this section, the term rural area . (b) Clerical amendment The analysis for chapter 229 22909. Railroad Crossing Elimination Program. . 2306. Interstate rail compacts (a) In general Chapter 229 22910. Interstate Rail Compacts Grant Program (a) Grants authorized The Secretary of Transportation shall establish a competitive grant program to provide financial assistance to entities implementing interstate rail compacts pursuant to section 410 of the Amtrak Reform and Accountability Act of 1997 ( 49 U.S.C. 24101 (1) costs of administration; (2) systems planning, including studying the impacts on freight rail operations and ridership; (3) promotion of intercity passenger rail operation; (4) preparation of applications for competitive Federal grant programs; and (5) operations coordination. (b) Maximum amount The Secretary may not award a grant under this section in an amount exceeding $1,000,000 per year. (c) Selection criteria In selecting a recipient of a grant for an eligible project under this section, the Secretary shall consider— (1) the amount of funding received (including funding from a rail carrier (as defined in section 24102) or other participation by State, local, and regional governments and the private sector; (2) the applicant’s work to foster economic development through rail service, particularly in rural communities; (3) whether the applicant seeks to restore service over routes formerly operated by Amtrak, including routes described in section 11304(a) of the Passenger Rail Reform and Investment Act of 2015 (title XI of division A of Public Law 114–94 (4) the applicant’s dedication to providing intercity passenger rail service to regions and communities that are underserved or not served by other intercity public transportation; (5) whether the applicant is enhancing connectivity and geographic coverage of the existing national network of intercity passenger rail service; (6) whether the applicant prepares regional rail or corridor service development plans and corresponding environmental analysis; and (7) whether the applicant has engaged with appropriate government entities and transportation providers to identify projects necessary to enhance multimodal connections or facilitate service integration between rail service and other modes, including between intercity passenger rail service and intercity bus service or commercial air service. (d) Numerical limitation The Secretary may not award grants under this section for more than 10 interstate rail compacts in any fiscal year. (e) Operator limitation The Secretary may only award grants under this section to applicants with eligible expenses related to intercity passenger rail service to be operated by Amtrak. (f) Non-Federal match The Secretary shall require each recipient of a grant under this section to provide a non-Federal match of not less than 50 percent of the eligible expenses of carrying out the interstate rail compact under this section. (g) Report Not later than 3 years after the date of enactment of the Passenger Rail Expansion and Rail Safety Act of 2021 Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives (1) the implementation of this section; (2) the status of the planning efforts and coordination funded by grants awarded under this section; (3) the plans of grant recipients for continued implementation of the interstate rail compacts; (4) the status of, and data regarding, any new, restored, or enhanced rail services initiated under the interstate rail compacts; and (5) any legislative recommendations. . (b) Clerical amendment The analysis for chapter 229 22910. Interstate Rail Compacts Grant Program. . (c) Identification Section 410 of the Amtrak Reform and Accountability Act of 1997 ( Public Law 105–134 49 U.S.C. 24101 (1) in subsection (b)(2), by striking (except funds made available for Amtrak) (2) by adding at the end the following: (c) Notification requirement Any State that enters into an interstate compact pursuant to subsection (a) shall notify the Secretary of Transportation of such compact not later than 60 days after it is formed. The failure of any State to notify the Secretary under this subsection shall not affect the status of the interstate compact. (d) Interstate rail compacts program The Secretary of Transportation shall— (1) make available on a publicly accessible website a list of interstate rail compacts established under subsection (a) before the date of enactment of the Passenger Rail Expansion and Rail Safety Act of 2021 (2) make information regarding interstate rail compacts available to the public, including how States may establish interstate rail compacts under subsection (a), and update such information, as necessary. . 2307. Federal-State partnership for intercity passenger rail grants (a) In general Section 24911 of title 49, United States Code, is amended— (1) in the section heading, by striking for state of good repair for intercity passenger rail (2) in subsection (a)— (A) in paragraph (1)— (i) in subparagraph (F), by striking or (ii) by redesignating subsection (G) as subsection (H); (iii) by inserting after subparagraph (F), the following: (G) A federally recognized Indian Tribe; or ; and (iv) in subsection (H), as redesignated, by striking (F) (G) (B) by striking paragraphs (2) and (5); and (C) by redesignating paragraphs (3) and (4) as paragraphs (2) and (3), respectively; (3) in subsection (b), by striking with respect to qualified railroad assets , improve performance, or expand or establish new intercity passenger rail service, including privately operated intercity passenger rail service if an eligible applicant is involved; (4) by striking subsections (c) through (e) and inserting the following: (c) Eligible projects The following capital projects, including acquisition of real property interests, are eligible to receive grants under this section: (1) A project to replace, rehabilitate, or repair infrastructure, equipment, or a facility used for providing intercity passenger rail service to bring such assets into a state of good repair. (2) A project to improve intercity passenger rail service performance, including reduced trip times, increased train frequencies, higher operating speeds, improved reliability, expanded capacity, reduced congestion, electrification, and other improvements, as determined by the Secretary. (3) A project to expand or establish new intercity passenger rail service. (4) A group of related projects described in paragraphs (1) through (3). (5) The planning, environmental studies, and final design for a project or group of projects described in paragraphs (1) through (4). (d) Project selection criteria In selecting a project for funding under this section— (1) for projects located on the Northeast Corridor, the Secretary shall— (A) make selections consistent with the Northeast Corridor Project Inventory published pursuant to subsection (e)(1), unless when necessary to address materially changed infrastructure or service conditions, changes in project sponsor capabilities or commitments, or other significant changes since the completion of the most recently issued Northeast Corridor Project Inventory; and (B) for projects that benefit intercity and commuter rail services, only make such selections when Amtrak and the public authorities providing commuter rail passenger transportation at the eligible project location— (i) are in compliance with section 24905(c)(2); (ii) have identified the intercity passenger rail share of the eligible project; and (iii) identify funding for the commuter rail share of the non-Federal share of the project before the commencement of the project; (2) for projects not located on the Northeast Corridor, the Secretary shall— (A) give preference to eligible projects— (i) for which Amtrak is not the sole applicant; (ii) that improve the financial performance reliability, service frequency, or address the state of good repair of an Amtrak route; and (iii) that are identified in, and consistent with, a corridor inventory prepared under the Corridor Identification and Development Program pursuant to section 25101; and (B) take into account— (i) the cost-benefit analysis of the proposed project, including anticipated private and public benefits relative to the costs of the proposed project, including— (I) effects on system and service performance, including as measured by applicable metrics set forth in part 273 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations; (II) effects on safety, competitiveness, reliability, trip or transit time, greenhouse gas emissions, and resilience; (III) efficiencies from improved connections with other modes; and (IV) ability to meet existing or anticipated demand; (ii) the degree to which the proposed project’s business plan considers potential private sector participation in the financing, construction, or operation of the proposed project; (iii) the applicant’s past performance in developing and delivering similar projects, and previous financial contributions; (iv) whether the applicant has, or will have— (I) the legal, financial, and technical capacity to carry out the project; (II) satisfactory continuing access to the equipment or facilities; and (III) the capability and willingness to maintain the equipment or facilities; (v) if applicable, the consistency of the project with planning guidance and documents set forth by the Secretary or otherwise required by law; and (vi) any other relevant factors, as determined by the Secretary; and (3) the Secretary shall reserve— (A) not less than 45 percent of the amounts appropriated for grants under this section for projects not located along the Northeast Corridor, of which not less than 20 percent shall be for projects that benefit (in whole or in part) a long-distance route; and (B) not less than 45 percent of the amounts appropriated for grants under this section for projects listed on the Northeast Corridor project inventory published pursuant to subsection (e)(1). (e) Long-Term planning Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of the Passenger Rail Expansion and Rail Safety Act of 2021 (1) identifies capital projects for Federal investment, project applicants, and proposed Federal funding levels under this section; (2) specifies the order in which the Secretary will provide grant funding to projects that have identified sponsors and are located along the Northeast Corridor, including a method and plan for apportioning funds to project sponsors for the 2-year period, which may be altered by the Secretary, as necessary, if recipients are not carrying out projects in accordance with the anticipated schedule; (3) takes into consideration the appropriate sequence and phasing of projects described in the Northeast Corridor capital investment plan developed pursuant to section 24904(a); (4) is consistent with the most recent Northeast Corridor service development plan update described in section 24904(d); (5) takes into consideration the existing commitments and anticipated Federal, project applicant, sponsor, and other relevant funding levels for the next 5 fiscal years based on information currently available to the Secretary; and (6) is developed in consultation with the Northeast Corridor Commission and the owners of Northeast Corridor infrastructure and facilities. ; (5) in subsection (f)(2), by inserting , except as specified under paragraph (4) 80 percent (6) in subsection (g)— (A) in the subsection heading, by inserting ; phased funding agreements intent (B) in paragraph (1)— (i) in the paragraph heading, by striking In general Letters of intent (ii) by striking shall, to the maximum extent practicable, may (C) by redesignating paragraphs (2) and (3) as paragraphs (3) and (4), respectively; (D) by inserting after paragraph (1) the following: (2) Phased funding agreements (A) In general The Secretary may enter into a phased funding agreement with an applicant if— (i) the project is highly rated, based on the evaluations and ratings conducted pursuant to this section and the applicable notice of funding opportunity; and (ii) the Federal assistance to be provided for the project under this section is more than $80,000,000. (B) Terms A phased funding agreement shall— (i) establish the terms of participation by the Federal Government in the project; (ii) establish the maximum amount of Federal financial assistance for the project; (iii) include the period of time for completing the project, even if such period extends beyond the period for which Federal financial assistance is authorized; (iv) make timely and efficient management of the project easier in accordance with Federal law; and (v) if applicable, specify when the process for complying with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 (C) Special financial rules (i) In general A phased funding agreement under this paragraph obligates an amount of available budget authority specified in law and may include a commitment, contingent on amounts to be specified in law in advance for commitments under this paragraph, to obligate an additional amount from future available budget authority specified in law. (ii) Statement of contingent commitment The agreement shall state that the contingent commitment is not an obligation of the Government. (iii) Interest and other financing costs Interest and other financing costs of efficiently carrying out a part of the project within a reasonable time are a cost of carrying out the project under a phased funding agreement, except that eligible costs may not be more than the cost of the most favorable financing terms reasonably available for the project at the time of borrowing. The applicant shall certify, to the satisfaction of the Secretary, that the applicant has shown reasonable diligence in seeking the most favorable financing terms. (iv) Failure to carry out project If an applicant does not carry out the project for reasons within the control of the applicant, the applicant shall repay all Federal grant funds awarded for the project from all Federal funding sources, for all project activities, facilities, and equipment, plus reasonable interest and penalty charges allowable by law or established by the Secretary in the phased funding agreement. For purposes of this clause, a process for complying with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 (v) Crediting of funds received Any funds received by the Government under this paragraph, except for interest and penalty charges, shall be credited to the appropriation account from which the funds were originally derived. ; (E) in paragraph (3), as redesignated— (i) in subparagraph (A), in the matter preceding clause (i), by inserting a phased funding agreement under paragraph (2) or issuing (ii) in subparagraph (B)(i), by inserting the phased funding agreement or a copy of (F) in paragraph (4), as redesignated— (i) by striking An obligation (B) Appropriations required An obligation ; and (ii) by inserting before subparagraph (B), as added by clause (i), the following: (A) In general The Secretary may enter into phased funding agreements under this subsection that contain contingent commitments to incur obligations in such amounts as the Secretary determines are appropriate. ; and (7) by adding at the end the following: (j) Annual report on phased funding agreements and letters of intent Not later than the first Monday in February of each year, the Secretary shall submit a report to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate Committee on Appropriations of the Senate Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives Committee on Appropriations of the House of Representatives (1) a proposal for the allocation of amounts to be available to finance grants for projects under this section among applicants for such amounts; (2) evaluations and ratings, as applicable, for each project that has received a phased funding agreement or a letter of intent; and (3) recommendations for each project that has received a phased funding agreement or a letter of intent for funding based on the evaluations and ratings, as applicable, and on existing commitments and anticipated funding levels for the next 3 fiscal years based on information currently available to the Secretary. (k) Regional planning guidance corridor planning The Secretary may withhold up to 5 percent of the total amount made available to carry out this section to carry out planning and development activities related to section 25101, including— (1) providing funding to public entities for the development of corridor development plans selected under the Corridor Identification and Development Program; (2) facilitating and providing guidance for intercity passenger rail systems planning; (3) providing funding for the development and refinement of intercity passenger rail systems planning analytical tools and models; and (4) providing funding to public entities for the development of corridor development plans selected under the Corridor Identification and Development Program. . (b) Clerical amendment The analysis for chapter 249 24911. Federal-State partnership for intercity passenger rail. . 2308. Corridor Identification and Development Program (a) In general Part C of subtitle V of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following: 251 Passenger rail planning Sec. 25101. Corridor Identification and Development Program. 25101. Corridor Identification and Development Program (a) In general Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of the Passenger Rail Expansion and Rail Safety Act of 2021 (1) a process for eligible entities described in subsection (b) to submit proposals for the development of intercity passenger rail corridors; (2) a process for the Secretary to review and select proposals in accordance with subsection (c); (3) criteria for determining the level of readiness for Federal financial assistance of an intercity passenger rail corridor, which shall include— (A) identification of a service operator which may include Amtrak or private rail carriers; (B) identification of a service sponsor or sponsors; (C) identification capital project sponsors; (D) engagement with the host railroads; and (E) other criteria as determined appropriate by the Secretary; (4) a process for preparing service development plans in accordance with subsection (d), including the identification of planning funds, such as funds made available under section 24911(k) and interstate rail compact grants established under section 22210; (5) the creation of a pipeline of intercity passenger rail corridor projects under subsection (g); (6) planning guidance to achieve the purposes of this section, including guidance for intercity passenger rail corridors not selected under this section; and (7) such other features as the Secretary considers relevant to the successful development of intercity passenger rail corridors. (b) Eligible entities The Secretary may receive proposals under this section from Amtrak, States, groups of States, entities implementing interstate compacts, regional passenger rail authorities, regional planning organizations, political subdivisions of a State, federally recognized Indian Tribes, and other public entities, as determined by the Secretary. (c) Corridor selection In selecting intercity passenger rail corridors pursuant to subsection (a), the Secretary shall consider— (1) whether the route was identified as part of a regional or interregional intercity passenger rail systems planning study; (2) projected ridership, revenues, capital investment, and operating funding requirements; (3) anticipated environmental, congestion mitigation, and other public benefits; (4) projected trip times and their competitiveness with other transportation modes; (5) anticipated positive economic and employment impacts, including development in the areas near passenger stations, historic districts, or other opportunity zones; (6) committed or anticipated State, regional transportation authority, or other non-Federal funding for operating and capital costs; (7) benefits to rural communities; (8) whether the corridor is included in a State’s approved State rail plan developed pursuant to chapter 227; (9) whether the corridor serves historically unserved or underserved and low-income communities or areas of persistent poverty; (10) whether the corridor would benefit or improve connectivity with existing or planned transportation services of other modes; (11) whether the corridor connects at least 2 of the 100 most populated metropolitan areas; (12) whether the corridor would enhance the regional equity and geographic diversity of intercity passenger rail service; (13) whether the corridor is or would be integrated into the national rail passenger transportation system and whether the corridor would create benefits for other passenger rail routes and services; and (14) whether a passenger rail operator, including a private rail carrier, has expressed support for the corridor. (d) Service development plans For each corridor proposal selected for development under this section, the Secretary shall partner with the entity that submitted the proposal and relevant States to prepare a service development plan (or to update an existing service development plan), which shall include— (1) a detailed description of the proposed intercity passenger rail service, including train frequencies, peak and average operating speeds, and trip times; (2) a corridor project inventory that— (A) identifies the capital projects necessary to achieve the proposed intercity passenger rail service, including— (i) the capital projects for which Federal investment will be sought; (ii) the likely project applicants; and (iii) the proposed Federal funding levels; (B) specifies the order in which Federal funding will be sought for the capital projects identified under subparagraph (A), after considering the appropriate sequence and phasing of projects based on the anticipated availability of funds; and (C) is developed in consultation with the entities listed in subsection (e); (3) a schedule and any associated phasing of projects and related service initiation or changes; (4) project sponsors and other entities expected to participate in carrying out the plan; (5) a description of how the corridor would comply with Federal rail safety and security laws, orders, and regulations; (6) the locations of existing and proposed stations; (7) the needs for rolling stock and other equipment; (8) a financial plan identifying projected— (A) annual revenues; (B) annual ridership; (C) capital investments before service could be initiated; (D) capital investments required to maintain service; (E) annual operating and costs; and (F) sources of capital investment and operating financial support; (9) a description of how the corridor would contribute to the development of a multi-State regional network of intercity passenger rail; (10) an intermodal plan describing how the new or improved corridor facilitates travel connections with other passenger transportation services; (11) a description of the anticipated environmental benefits of the corridor; and (12) a description of the corridor’s impacts on highway and aviation congestion, energy consumption, land use, and economic development in the service area. (e) Consultation In partnering on the preparation of a service development plan under subsection (d), the Secretary shall consult with— (1) Amtrak; (2) appropriate State and regional transportation authorities and local officials; (3) representatives of employee labor organizations representing railroad and other appropriate employees; (4) host railroads for the proposed corridor; and (5) other stakeholders, as determined by the Secretary. (f) Updates If at least 40 percent of the work to implement a service development plan prepared under subsection (d) has not yet been completed, the plan’s sponsor, in consultation with the Secretary, shall determine whether such plan should be updated. (g) Project pipeline Not later than 1 year after the establishment of the program under this section, and by February 1st of each year thereafter, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate Committee on Appropriations of the Senate Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives Committee on Appropriations of the House of Representatives (1) identifies intercity passenger rail corridors selected for development under this section; (2) identifies capital projects for Federal investment, project applicants, and proposed Federal funding levels, as applicable, consistent with the corridor project inventory; (3) specifies the order in which the Secretary would provide Federal financial assistance, subject to the availability of funds, to projects that have identified sponsors, including a method and plan for apportioning funds to project sponsors for a 5-year period, which may be altered by the Secretary, as necessary, if recipients are not carrying out projects on the anticipated schedule; (4) takes into consideration the appropriate sequence and phasing of projects described in the corridor project inventory; (5) takes into consideration the existing commitments and anticipated Federal, project applicant, sponsor, and other relevant funding levels for the next 5 fiscal years based on information currently available to the Secretary; (6) is prioritized based on the level of readiness of the corridor; and (7) reflects consultation with Amtrak. (h) Definition In this section, the term intercity passenger rail corridor (1) a new intercity passenger rail route of less than 750 miles; (2) the enhancement of an existing intercity passenger rail route of less than 750 miles; (3) the restoration of service over all or portions of an intercity passenger rail route formerly operated by Amtrak; or (4) the increase of service frequency of a long-distance intercity passenger rail route. . (b) Clerical amendment The table of chapters for subtitle V of title 49, United States Code, is amended by inserting after the item relating to chapter 249 the following: Chapter 251. Passenger rail planning 25101 . 2309. Surface Transportation Board Passenger Rail Program The Surface Transportation Board shall— (1) establish a passenger rail program with primary responsibility for carrying out the Board’s passenger rail responsibilities; and (2) hire up to 10 additional full-time employees to assist in carrying out the responsibilities referred to in paragraph (1). 2310. Railroad rights-of-way (a) Review The Comptroller General of the United States shall— (1) conduct a review of the exemption for railroad rights-of-way under section 306108 of title 54, United States Code, to determine whether and to what extent the exemption streamlines compliance with such section; and (2) quantify the efficiencies achieved by such exemption and the remaining inefficiencies. (b) Consultation In conducting the review pursuant to subsection (a), the Comptroller General shall consult with the Secretary, the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, the National Conference of State Historic Preservation Officers, the National Association of Tribal Historic Preservation Officers, the Department of the Interior, and representatives of the railroad industry. (c) Recommendations Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General shall submit a report to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives (1) describes the results of the review conducted pursuant to subsection (a); and (2) includes recommendations for any regulatory or legislative amendments that may further streamline compliance with the requirements under section 306108 of title 54, United States Code, in a manner that is consistent with railroad safety and the policies and purposes of such section, including recommendations regarding— (A) the property based exemption; and (B) ways to improve the process, while ensuring that historical properties remain protected under such section. (d) Report to Congress Not later than 180 days after date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation shall submit a report to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives (1) the recommendations received from the Comptroller General pursuant to subsection (c)(2); and (2) the actions that the Secretary will take to implement such recommendations. D Rail safety 2401. Railway-highway crossings program evaluation (a) In general The Secretary shall evaluate the requirements of the railway-highway crossings program authorized under section 130 of title 23, United States Code, to determine whether— (1) the requirements of the program provide States sufficient flexibility to adequately address current and emerging highway-rail grade crossing safety issues; (2) the structure of the program provides sufficient incentives and resources to States and local agencies to make changes at highway-rail grade crossings that are most effective at reducing deaths and injuries; (3) there are appropriate tools and resources to support States in using data driven programs to determine the most cost-effective use of program funds; and (4) any statutory changes are recommended to improve the effectiveness of the program. (b) Report Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit a report to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives 2402. Grade crossing accident prediction model Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration shall— (1) update the grade crossing accident prediction and severity model used by the Federal Railroad Administration to analyze accident risk at highway-rail grade crossings; and (2) provide training on the use of the updated grade crossing accident prediction and severity model. 2403. Periodic updates to highway-rail crossing reports and plans (a) Highway-Rail grade crossing safety Section 11401 of the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation Act ( Public Law 114–94 49 U.S.C. 22907 (1) by striking subsection (c); and (2) by redesignating subsections (d) and (e) as subsections (c) and (d), respectively. (b) Reports on highway-Rail grade crossing safety (1) In general Chapter 201 section 20166 20167. Reports on highway-rail grade crossing safety (a) Report Not later than 4 years after the date by which States are required to submit State highway-rail grade crossing action plans under section 11401(b) of the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation Act ( 49 U.S.C. 22907 Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives (1) an analysis and evaluation of each State railway-highway crossings program under section 130 of title 23, including— (A) compliance with section 11401 of the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation Act and section 130(g) of title 23; and (B) the specific strategies identified by each State to improve safety at highway-rail grade crossings, including crossings with multiple accidents or incidents; (2) the progress of each State in implementing its State highway-rail grade crossings action plan; (3) the number of highway-rail grade crossing projects undertaken pursuant to section 130 of title 23, including the distribution of such projects by cost range, road system, nature of treatment, and subsequent accident experience at improved locations; (4) which States are not in compliance with their schedule of projects under section 130(d) of title 23; and (5) any recommendations for future implementation of the railway-highway crossings program under section 130 of title 23. (b) Updates Not later than 5 years after the submission of the report required under subsection (a), the Administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration, in consultation with the Administrator of the Federal Highway Administration, shall— (1) update the report based on the State annual reports submitted pursuant to section 130(g) of title 23 and any other information obtained by or available to the Administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration; and (2) submit the updated report to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives (c) Definitions In this section: (1) Highway-rail grade crossing The term highway-rail grade crossing (A) a public highway, road, or street, or a private roadway, including associated sidewalks and pathways, crosses 1 or more railroad tracks, either at grade or grade-separated; or (B) a pathway explicitly authorized by a public authority or a railroad carrier that— (i) is dedicated for the use of nonvehicular traffic, including pedestrians, bicyclists, and others; (ii) is not associated with a public highway, road, or street, or a private roadway; and (iii) crosses 1 or more railroad tracks, either at grade or grade-separated. (2) State The term State . (2) Clerical amendment The analysis for chapter 201 section 20166 20167. Reports on highway-rail grade crossing safety. . (c) Annual report Section 130(g) of title 23, United States Code, is amended to read as follows: (g) Annual report (1) In general Not later than August 31 of each year, each State shall submit a report to the Administrator of the Federal Highway Administration that describes— (A) the progress being made to implement the railway-highway crossings program authorized under this section; and (B) the effectiveness of the improvements made as a result of such implementation. (2) Contents Each report submitted pursuant to paragraph (1) shall contain an assessment of— (A) the costs of the various treatments employed by the State to implement the railway-highway crossings program; and (B) the effectiveness of such treatments, as measured by the accident experience at the locations that received such treatments. (3) Coordination Not later than 30 days after the Federal Highway Administration’s acceptance of each report submitted pursuant to paragraph (1), the Administrator of the Federal Highway Administration shall make such report available to the Administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration. . 2404. Blocked crossing portal (a) In general The Administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration shall establish a 3-year blocked crossing portal, which shall include the maintenance of the portal and corresponding database to receive, store, and retrieve information regarding blocked highway-rail grade crossings. (b) Blocked crossing portal The Administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration shall establish a blocked crossing portal that— (1) collects information from the public, including first responders, regarding blocked highway-rail grade crossing events; (2) solicits the apparent cause of the blocked crossing and provides examples of common causes of blocked crossings, such as idling trains or instances when lights or gates are activated when no train is present; (3) provides each complainant with the contact information for reporting a blocked crossing to the relevant railroad; and (4) encourages each complainant to report the blocked crossing to the relevant railroad. (c) Complaints The blocked crossing portal shall be programmed to receive complaints from the general public about blocked highway-rail grade crossings. Any complaint reported through the portal shall indicate whether the complainant also reported the blocked crossing to the relevant railroad. (d) Information received In reviewing complaints received pursuant to subsection (c), the Federal Railroad Administration shall review, to the extent practicable, the information received from the complainant to account for duplicative or erroneous reporting. (e) Use of information The information received and maintained in the blocked crossing portal database shall be used by the Federal Railroad Administration— (1) to identify frequent and long-duration blocked highway-rail grade crossings; (2) as a basis for conducting outreach to communities, emergency responders, and railroads; (3) to support collaboration in the prevention of incidents at highway-rail grade crossings; and (4) to assess the impacts of blocked crossings. (f) Sharing information received (1) In general The Administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration shall implement and make publicly available procedures for sharing any nonaggregated information received through the blocked crossing portal with the public. (2) Rule of construction Nothing in this section may be construed to authorize the Federal Railroad Administration to make publically available sensitive security information. (g) Additional information If the information submitted to the blocked crossing portal is insufficient to determine the locations and potential impacts of blocked highway-rail grade crossings, the Federal Railroad Administration may collect, from the general public, State and local law enforcement personnel, and others as appropriate, such additional information as may be necessary to make such determinations. (h) Limitations Complaints, data, and other information received through the blocked crossing portal may not be used— (1) to infer or extrapolate the rate or instances of crossings beyond the data received through the portal; or (2) for any regulatory or enforcement purposes except those specifically described in this section. (i) Reports (1) Annual public report The Administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration shall publish an annual report on a public website regarding the blocked crossing program, including the underlying causes of blocked crossings, program challenges, and other findings. (2) Report to Congress Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration shall submit a report to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives (A) based on the information received through the blocked crossing portal, frequent and long-duration blocked highway-rail grade crossings, including the locations, dates, durations, and impacts resulting from such occurrences; (B) the Federal Railroad Administration’s process for verifying the accuracy of the complaints submitted to the blocked crossing portal, including whether the portal continues to be effective in collecting such information and identifying blocked crossings; (C) the Federal Railroad Administration’s use of the data compiled by the blocked crossing portal to assess the underlying cause and overall impacts of blocked crossings; (D) the engagement of the Federal Railroad Administration with affected parties to identify and facilitate solutions to frequent and long-duration blocked highway-rail grade crossings identified by the blocked crossing portal; and (E) whether the blocked crossing portal continues to be an effective method to collect blocked crossing information and what changes could improve its effectiveness. (j) Sunset This section (other than subsection (k)) shall have no force or effect beginning on the date that is 3 years after the date of enactment of this Act. (k) Rule of construction Nothing in this section may be construed to invalidate any authority of the Secretary with respect to blocked highway-rail grade crossings. The Secretary may continue to use any such authority after the sunset date set forth in subsection (j). 2405. Data accessibility (a) Review Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Chief Information Officer of the Department shall— (1) conduct a review of the website of the Office of Safety Analysis of the Federal Railroad Administration; and (2) provide recommendations to the Secretary for improving the public’s usability and accessibility of the website referred to in paragraph (1). (b) Updates Not later than 1 year after receiving recommendations from the Chief Information Officer pursuant to subsection (a)(2), the Secretary, after considering such recommendations, shall update the website of the Office of Safety Analysis of the Federal Railroad Administration to improve the usability and accessibility of the website. 2406. Emergency lighting Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall initiate a rulemaking to require that all rail carriers providing intercity passenger rail transportation or commuter rail passenger transportation (as such terms are defined in section 24102 of title 49, United States Code), develop and implement periodic inspection plans to ensure that passenger equipment offered for revenue service complies with the requirements under part 238 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, including ensuring that, in the event of a loss of power, there is adequate emergency lighting available to allow passengers, crew members, and first responders— (1) to see and orient themselves; (2) to identify obstacles; (3) to safely move throughout the rail car; and (4) to evacuate safely. 2407. Comprehensive rail safety review of Amtrak (a) Comprehensive safety assessment Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall— (1) conduct a focused review of Amtrak’s safety-related processes and procedures, compliance with safety regulations and requirements, and overall safety culture; and (2) submit a report to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives (b) Plan (1) Initial plan Not later than 6 months after the completion of the comprehensive safety assessment under subsection (a)(1), Amtrak shall submit a plan to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives (2) Annual updates Amtrak shall submit annual updates of its progress toward implementing the plan submitted pursuant to paragraph (1) to the committees listed in such paragraph. 2408. Completion of hours of service and fatigue studies (a) In general Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration shall commence the pilot programs required under subparagraphs (A) and (B) of section 21109(e)(1) of title 49, United States Code. (b) Consultation The Federal Railroad Administration shall consult with the class or craft of employees impacted by the pilot projects, including railroad carriers, and representatives of labor organizations representing the impacted employees when designing and conducting the pilot programs referred to in subsection (a). (c) Report If the pilot programs required under section 21109(e)(1) of title 49, United States Code, have not commenced on the date that is 1 year and 120 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary, not later than 30 days after such date, submit a report to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives that describes— (1) the status of such pilot programs; (2) actions that the Federal Railroad Administration has taken to commence the pilot programs, including efforts to recruit participant railroads; (3) any challenges impacting the commencement of the pilot programs; and (4) any other details associated with the development of the pilot programs that affect progress toward meeting the mandate under such section 21109(e)(1). 2409. Positive train control study (a) Study The Comptroller General of the United States shall conduct a study to determine the annual positive train control system operation and maintenance costs for public commuter railroads. (b) Report Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States shall submit a report to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives 2410. Operating crew member training, qualification, and certification (a) Audits Not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall initiate audits of the training, qualification, and certification programs of locomotive engineers and conductors of railroad carriers, subject to the requirements of parts 240 and 242 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, which audits shall— (1) be conducted in accordance with subsection (b); (2) consider whether such programs are in compliance with such parts 240 and 242; (3) assess the type and content of training that such programs provide locomotive engineers and conductors, relevant to their respective roles, including training related to installed technology; (4) determine whether such programs provide locomotive engineers and conductors the knowledge, skill, and ability to safely operate a locomotive or train, consistent with such parts 240 and 242; (5) determine whether such programs reflect the current operating practices of the railroad carrier; (6) assess the current practice by which railroads utilize simulator training, or any other technologies used to train and qualify locomotive engineers and conductors by examining how such technologies are used; (7) consider international experience and practice using similar technology, as appropriate, particularly before qualifying locomotive engineers on new or unfamiliar equipment, new train control, diagnostics, or other on-board technology; (8) assess the current practice for familiarizing locomotive engineers and conductors with new territory and using recurrency training to expose such personnel to normal and abnormal conditions; and (9) ensure that locomotive engineers and conductor training programs are considered separately, as appropriate, based on the unique requirements and regulations. (b) Audit scheduling The Secretary shall— (1) schedule the audits required under subsection (a) to ensure that— (A) each Class I railroad, including the National Railroad Passenger Corporation and other intercity passenger rail providers, is audited not less frequently than once every 5 years; and (B) a select number, as determined appropriate by the Secretary, of Class II and Class III railroads, along with other railroads providing passenger rail service that are not included in subparagraph (A), are audited annually; and (2) conduct the audits described in paragraph (1)(B) in accordance with the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996 ( 5 U.S.C. 601 (c) Updates to qualification and certification program If the Secretary, while conducting the audits required under this section, identifies a deficiency in a railroad’s training, qualification, and certification program for locomotive engineers or conductors, the railroad shall update the program to eliminate such deficiency. (d) Consultation and cooperation (1) Consultation In conducting any audit required under this section, the Secretary shall consult with the railroad and its employees, including any nonprofit employee labor organization representing the engineers or conductors of the railroad. (2) Cooperation The railroad and its employees, including any nonprofit employee labor organization representing engineers or conductors of the railroad, shall fully cooperate with any such audit, including by— (A) providing any relevant documents requested; and (B) making available any employees for interview without undue delay or obstruction. (3) Failure to cooperate If the Secretary determines that a railroad or any of its employees, including any nonprofit employee labor organization representing engineers or conductors of the railroad is not fully cooperating with an audit, the Secretary shall electronically notify the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives (e) Review of regulations The Secretary shall triennially determine whether any update to part 240 or 242 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, is necessary to better prepare locomotive engineers and conductors to safely operate trains by evaluating whether such regulations establish appropriate Federal standards requiring railroads— (1) to provide locomotive engineers or conductors the knowledge and skills to safely operate trains under conditions that reflect industry practices; (2) to adequately address locomotive engineer or conductor route situational awareness, including ensuring locomotive engineers and conductors to demonstrate knowledge on the physical characteristics of a territory under various conditions and using various resources; (3) to provide relevant and adequate hands-on training before a locomotive engineer or conductor is certified; (4) to adequately prepare locomotive engineers or conductors to understand relevant locomotive operating characteristics, to include instructions on functions they are required to operate on any installed technology; and (5) to address any other safety issue that the Secretary determines to be appropriate for better preparing locomotive engineers or conductors. (f) Annual report The Secretary shall publish an annual report on the public website of the Federal Railroad Administration that— (1) summarizes the findings of the prior year’s audits; (2) summarizes any updates made pursuant to subsection (c); and (3) excludes and confidential business information or sensitive security information. 2411. Transparency and safety Section 20103(d) of title 49, United States Code, is amended to read as follows: (d) Nonemergency waivers (1) In general The Secretary of Transportation may waive, or suspend the requirement to comply with, any part of a regulation prescribed or an order issued under this chapter if such waiver or suspension is in the public interest and consistent with railroad safety. (2) Notice required The Secretary shall— (A) provide timely public notice of any request for a waiver under this subsection or for a suspension under subpart E of part 211 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, or successor regulations; (B) make available the application for such waiver or suspension and any nonconfidential underlying data to interested parties; (C) provide the public with notice and a reasonable opportunity to comment on a proposed waiver or suspension under this subsection before making a final decision; and (D) publish on a publicly accessible website the reasons for granting each such waiver or suspension. (3) Information protection Nothing in this subsection may be construed to require the release of information protected by law from public disclosure. (4) Rulemaking (A) In general Not later than 1 year after the first day on which a waiver under this subsection or a suspension under subpart E of part 211 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, or successor regulations, has been in continuous effect for a 6-year period, the Secretary shall complete a review and analysis of such waiver or suspension to determine whether issuing a rule that is consistent with the waiver is— (i) in the public interest; and (ii) consistent with railroad safety. (B) Factors In conducting the review and analysis under subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall consider— (i) the relevant safety record under the waiver; (ii) the likelihood that other entities would have similar safety outcomes; (iii) the materials submitted in the applications, including any comments regarding such materials; and (iv) related rulemaking activity. (C) Notice and comment The Secretary shall publish notice of the review and analysis of the waiver in the Federal Register, which shall include a summary of the data collected and all relevant underlying data, which may be included in a regulatory update under subparagraph (D). (D) Regulatory update The Secretary may initiate a rulemaking to incorporate relevant aspects of a waiver under this subsection or a suspension under subpart E of part 211 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, or successor regulations, into the relevant regulation, to the extent the Secretary considers appropriate. (5) Rule of construction Nothing in this subsection may be construed to delay any waiver granted pursuant to this subsection that is in the public interest and consistent with railroad safety. . 2412. Research and development Section 20108 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following: (d) Facilities The Secretary may erect, alter, and repair buildings and make other public improvements to carry out necessary railroad research, safety, and training activities at the Transportation Technology Center in Pueblo, Colorado. (e) Offsetting collections The Secretary may collect fees or rents from facility users to offset appropriated amounts for the cost of providing facilities or research, development, testing, training, or other services, including long-term sustainment of the on-site physical plant. (f) Revolving fund Amounts appropriated to carry out subsection (d) and all fees and rents collected pursuant to subsection (e) shall be credited to a revolving fund and remain available until expended. The Secretary may use such fees and rents for operation, maintenance, repair, or improvement of the Transportation Technology Center. (g) Leases and contracts Notwithstanding section 1302 of title 40, the Secretary may lease to others or enter into contracts for terms of up to 20 years, for such consideration and subject to such terms and conditions as the Secretary determines to be in the best interests of the Government of the United States, for the operation, maintenance, repair, and improvement of the Transportation Technology Center. (h) Property and casualty loss insurance The Secretary may allow its lessees and contractors to purchase property and casualty loss insurance for its assets and activities at the Transportation Technology Center to mitigate the lessee’s or contractor’s risk associated with operating a facility. (i) Energy projects Notwithstanding section 1341 of title 31, the Secretary may enter into contracts or agreements, or commit to obligations in connection with third-party contracts or agreements, including contingent liability for the purchase of electric power in connection with such contracts or agreements, for terms not to exceed 20 years, to enable the use of the land at the Transportation Technology Center for projects to produce energy from renewable sources. . 2413. Rail Research and Development Center of Excellence Section 20108 of title 49, United States Code, as amended by section 2412, is further amended by adding at the end the following: (j) Rail Research and Development Center of Excellence (1) Center of excellence The Secretary shall award grants to establish and maintain a center of excellence to advance research and development that improves the safety, efficiency, and reliability of passenger and freight rail transportation. (2) Eligibility An institution of higher education (as defined in section 102 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 ( 20 U.S.C. 1002 (3) Selection criteria In awarding a grant under this subsection, the Secretary shall— (A) give preference to applicants with strong past performance related to rail research, education, and workforce development activities; (B) consider the extent to which the applicant would involve public and private sector passenger and freight railroad operators; and (C) consider the regional and national impacts of the applicant’s proposal. (4) Use of funds Grant funds awarded pursuant to this subsection shall be used for basic and applied research, evaluation, education, workforce development, and training efforts related to safety, efficiency, reliability, resiliency, and sustainability of urban commuter, intercity high-speed, and freight rail transportation, to include advances in rolling stock, advanced positive train control, human factors, rail infrastructure, shared corridors, grade crossing safety, inspection technology, remote sensing, rail systems maintenance, network resiliency, operational reliability, energy efficiency, and other advanced technologies. (5) Federal share The Federal share of a grant awarded under this subsection shall be 50 percent of the cost of establishing and operating the center of excellence and related research activities carried out by the grant recipient. . 2414. Quarterly report on positive train control system performance Section 20157 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following: (m) Reports on positive train control system performance (1) In general Each host railroad subject to this section or subpart I of part 236 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, shall electronically submit to the Secretary of Transportation a Report of PTC System Performance on Form FRA F 6180.152, which shall be submitted on or before the applicable due date set forth in paragraph (3) and contain the information described in paragraph (2), which shall be separated by the host railroad, each applicable tenant railroad, and each positive train control-governed track segment, consistent with the railroad’s positive train control Implementation Plan described in subsection (a)(1). (2) Required information Each report submitted pursuant to paragraph (1) shall include, for the applicable reporting period— (A) the number of positive train control system initialization failures, disaggregated by the number of initialization failures for which the source or cause was the onboard subsystem, the wayside subsystem, the communications subsystem, the back office subsystem, or a non-positive train control component; (B) the number of positive train control system cut outs, disaggregated by each component listed in subparagraph (A) that was the source or cause of such cut outs; (C) the number of positive train control system malfunctions, disaggregated by each component listed in subparagraph (A) that was the source or cause of such malfunctions; (D) the number of enforcements by the positive train control system; (E) the number of enforcements by the positive train control system in which it is reasonable to assume an accident or incident was prevented; (F) the number of scheduled attempts at initialization of the positive train control system; (G) the number of train miles governed by the positive train control system; and (H) a summary of any actions the host railroad and its tenant railroads are taking to reduce the frequency and rate of initialization failures, cut outs, and malfunctions, such as any actions to correct or eliminate systemic issues and specific problems. (3) Due dates (A) In general Except as provided in subparagraph (B), each host railroad shall electronically submit the report required under paragraph (1) not later than— (i) April 30, for the period from January 1 through March 31; (ii) July 31, for the period from April 1 through June 30; (iii) October 31, for the period from July 1 through September 30; and (iv) January 31, for the period from October 1 through December 31 of the prior calendar year. (B) Frequency reduction Beginning on the date that is 3 years after the date of enactment of the Passenger Rail Expansion and Rail Safety Act of 2021 (i) determines that quarterly reporting is in the public interest; and (ii) publishes a justification for such determination in the Federal Register. (4) Tenant railroads Each tenant railroad that operates on a host railroad’s positive train control-governed main line and is not currently subject to an exception under section 236.1006(b) of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, shall submit the information described in paragraph (2) to each applicable host railroad on a continuous basis. (5) Enforcements Any railroad operating a positive train control system classified under Federal Railroad Administration Type Approval number FRA–TA–2010–001 or FRA–TA–2013–003 shall begin submitting the metric required under paragraph (2)(D) not later than January 31, 2023. . 2415. Speed limit action plans (a) Codification of, and amendment to, section 11406 of the FAST Act Subchapter II of chapter 201 of subtitle V of title 49, United States Code, is amended by inserting after section 20168 the following: 20169. Speed limit action plans (a) In general Not later than March 3, 2016, each railroad carrier providing intercity rail passenger transportation or commuter rail passenger transportation, in consultation with any applicable host railroad carrier, shall survey its entire system and identify each main track location where there is a reduction of more than 20 miles per hour from the approach speed to a curve, bridge, or tunnel and the maximum authorized operating speed for passenger trains at that curve, bridge, or tunnel. (b) Action plans Not later than 120 days after the date that the survey under subsection (a) is complete, a railroad carrier described in subsection (a) shall submit to the Secretary of Transportation an action plan that— (1) identifies each main track location where there is a reduction of more than 20 miles per hour from the approach speed to a curve, bridge, or tunnel and the maximum authorized operating speed for passenger trains at that curve, bridge, or tunnel; (2) describes appropriate actions to enable warning and enforcement of the maximum authorized speed for passenger trains at each location identified under paragraph (1), including— (A) modification to automatic train control systems, if applicable, or other signal systems; (B) increased crew size; (C) installation of signage alerting train crews of the maximum authorized speed for passenger trains in each location identified under paragraph (1); (D) installation of alerters; (E) increased crew communication; and (F) other practices; (3) contains milestones and target dates for implementing each appropriate action described under paragraph (2); and (4) ensures compliance with the maximum authorized speed at each location identified under paragraph (1). (c) Approval Not later than 90 days after the date on which an action plan is submitted under subsection (b) or (d)(2), the Secretary shall approve, approve with conditions, or disapprove the action plan. (d) Periodic reviews and updates Each railroad carrier that submits an action plan to the Secretary pursuant to subsection (b) shall— (1) not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of the Passenger Rail Expansion and Rail Safety Act of 2021 (2) not later than 90 days before implementing any significant operational or territorial operating change, including initiating a new service or route, submit to the Secretary a revised action plan, after consultation with any applicable host railroad, that addresses such operational or territorial operating change. (e) New service If a railroad carrier providing intercity rail passenger transportation or commuter rail passenger transportation did not exist on the date of enactment of the FAST Act ( Public Law 114–94 (1) survey its routes pursuant to subsection (a) not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of the Passenger Rail Expansion and Rail Safety Act of 2021 (2) develop an action plan pursuant to subsection (b) not later than 120 days after the date on which such survey is complete. (f) Alternative safety measures The Secretary may exempt from the requirements under this section each segment of track for which operations are governed by a positive train control system certified under section 20157, or any other safety technology or practice that would achieve an equivalent or greater level of safety in reducing derailment risk. (g) Prohibition No new intercity or commuter rail passenger service may begin operation unless the railroad carrier providing such service is in compliance with the requirements under this section. (h) Savings clause Nothing in this section may be construed to prohibit the Secretary from applying the requirements under this section to other segments of track at high risk of overspeed derailment. . (b) Clerical amendment The analysis for chapter 201 of subtitle V of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following: 20169. Speed limit action plans. . 2416. New passenger service pre-revenue safety validation plan (a) In general Subchapter II of chapter 201 of subtitle V of title 49, United States Code, as amended by section 2415, is further amended by adding at the end the following: 20170. Pre-revenue service safety validation plan (a) Plan submission Any railroad providing new, regularly scheduled, intercity or commuter rail passenger transportation, an extension of existing service, or a renewal of service that has been discontinued for more than 180 days shall develop and submit for review a comprehensive pre-revenue service safety validation plan to the Secretary of Transportation not later than 60 days before initiating such revenue service. Such plan shall include pertinent safety milestones and a minimum period of simulated revenue service to ensure operational readiness and that all safety sensitive personnel are properly trained and qualified. (b) Compliance After submitting a plan pursuant to subsection (a), the railroad shall adopt and comply with such plan and may not amend the plan without first notifying the Secretary of the proposed amendment. Revenue service may not begin until the railroad has completed the requirements of its plan, including the minimum simulated service period required by the plan. (c) Rulemaking The Secretary shall promulgate regulations to carry out this section, including— (1) requiring that any identified safety deficiencies be addressed and corrected before the initiation of revenue service; and (2) establishing appropriate deadlines to enable the Secretary to review and approve the pre-revenue service safety validation plan to ensure that service is not unduly delayed. . (b) Clerical amendment The analysis for chapter 201 20170. Pre-revenue service safety validation plan. . 2417. Federal Railroad Administration accident and incident investigations Section 20902 of title 49, United States Code, is amended— (1) in subsection (b) by striking subpena subpoena (2) by adding at the end the following: (d) Gathering information and technical expertise (1) In general The Secretary shall create a standard process for investigators to use during accident and incident investigations conducted under this section for determining when it is appropriate and the appropriate method for— (A) gathering information about an accident or incident under investigation from railroad carriers, contractors or employees of railroad carriers or representatives of employees of railroad carriers, and others, as determined relevant by the Secretary; and (B) consulting with railroad carriers, contractors or employees of railroad carriers or representatives of employees of railroad carriers, and others, as determined relevant by the Secretary, for technical expertise on the facts of the accident or incident under investigation. (2) Confidentiality In developing the process required under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall factor in ways to maintain the confidentiality of any entity identified under paragraph (1) if— (A) such entity requests confidentiality; (B) such entity was not involved in the accident or incident; and (C) maintaining such entity’s confidentiality does not adversely affect an investigation of the Federal Railroad Administration. (3) Applicability This subsection shall not apply to any investigation carried out by the National Transportation Safety Board. . 2418. Civil penalty enforcement authority Section 21301(a) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by striking paragraph (3) and inserting the following: (3) The Secretary may find that a person has violated this chapter or a regulation prescribed or order, special permit, or approval issued under this chapter only after notice and an opportunity for a hearing. The Secretary shall impose a penalty under this section by giving the person written notice of the amount of the penalty. The Secretary may compromise the amount of a civil penalty by settlement agreement without issuance of an order. In determining the amount of a compromise, the Secretary shall consider— (A) the nature, circumstances, extent, and gravity of the violation; (B) with respect to the violator, the degree of culpability, any history of violations, the ability to pay, and any effect on the ability to continue to do business; and (C) other matters that justice requires. (4) The Attorney General may bring a civil action in an appropriate district court of the United States to collect a civil penalty imposed or compromise under this section and any accrued interest on the civil penalty. In the civil action, the amount and appropriateness of the civil penalty shall not be subject to review. . 2419. Advancing safety and innovative technology (a) In general Section 26103 of title 49, United States Code, is amended to read as follows: 26103. Safety regulations and evaluation The Secretary shall— (1) promulgate such safety regulations as may be necessary for high-speed rail services; and (2) before promulgating such regulations, consult with developers of new high-speed rail technologies to develop a method for evaluating safety performance. . (b) Clerical amendment The analysis for chapter 261 26103. Safety regulations and evaluation. . 2420. Passenger rail vehicle occupant protection systems (a) Study The Administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration shall conduct a study of the potential installation and use in new passenger rail rolling stock of passenger rail vehicle occupant protection systems that could materially improve passenger safety. (b) Considerations In conducting the study under subsection (a), the Administrator shall consider minimizing the risk of secondary collisions, including estimating the costs and benefits of the new requirements, through the use of— (1) occupant restraint systems; (2) air bags; (3) emergency window retention systems; and (4) interior designs, including seats, baggage restraints, and table configurations and attachments. (c) Report Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall— (1) submit a report summarizing the findings of the study conducted pursuant to subsection (a) to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives (2) publish such report on the website of the Federal Railroad Administration. (d) Rulemaking Following the completion of the study required under subsection (a), and after considering the costs and benefits of the proposed protection systems, the Administrator may promulgate a rule that establishes standards for the use of occupant protection systems in new passenger rail rolling stock. 2421. Federal Railroad Administration safety reporting Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter for the following 4 years, the Secretary shall update Special Study Block 49 on Form FRA F 6180.54 (Rail Equipment Accident/Incident Report) to collect, with respect to trains involved in accidents required to be reported to the Federal Railroad Administration— (1) the number of cars and length of the involved trains; and (2) the number of crew members who were aboard a controlling locomotive involved in an accident at the time of such accident. 2422. National Academies study on trains longer than 7,500 feet (a) Study The Secretary shall seek to enter into an agreement with the National Academies to conduct a study on the operation of freight trains that are longer than 7,500 feet. (b) Elements The study conducted pursuant to subsection (a) shall— (1) examine any potential impacts to safety from the operation of freight trains that are longer than 7,500 feet and the mitigation of any identified risks, including— (A) any potential changes in the risk of loss of communications between the end of train device and the locomotive cab, including communications over differing terrains and conditions; (B) any potential changes in the risk of loss of radio communications between crew members when a crew member alights from the train, including communications over differing terrains and conditions; (C) any potential changes in the risk of derailments, including any risks associated with in-train compressive forces and slack action or other safety risks in the operations of such trains in differing terrains and conditions; (D) any potential impacts associated with the deployment of multiple distributed power units in the consists of such trains; and (E) any potential impacts on braking and locomotive performance and track wear and tear; (2) evaluate any impacts on scheduling and efficiency of passenger operations and in the shipping of goods by freight as a result of longer trains; (3) determine whether additional engineer and conductor training is required for safely operating such trains; (4) assess the potential impact on the amount of time and frequency of occurrence highway-rail grade crossings are occupied; and (5) identify any potential environmental impacts, including greenhouse gas emissions, that have resulted from the operation of longer trains. (c) Comparison When evaluating the potential impacts of the operation of trains longer than 7,500 feet under subsection (b), the impacts of such trains shall be compared to the impacts of trains that are shorter than 7,500 feet, after taking into account train frequency. (d) Report Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit a report to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives (e) Funding From the amounts appropriated for fiscal year 2021 pursuant to the authorization under section 20117(a) of title 49, United States Code, the Secretary shall expend not less than $1,000,000 and not more than $2,000,000 to carry out the study required under this section. 2423. High-speed train noise emissions (a) In general Section 17 of the Noise Control Act of 1972 ( 42 U.S.C. 4916 (1) by redesignating subsections (c) and (d) as subsections (d) and (e), respectively; and (2) by inserting after subsection (b) the following: (c) High-Speed train noise emissions (1) In general The Secretary of Transportation, in consultation with the Administrator, may prescribe regulations governing railroad-related noise emission standards for trains operating on the general railroad system of transportation at speeds exceeding 160 miles per hour, including noise related to magnetic levitation systems and other new technologies not traditionally associated with railroads. (2) Factors in rulemaking The regulations prescribed pursuant to paragraph (1) may— (A) consider variances in maximum pass-by noise with respect to the speed of the equipment; (B) account for current engineering best practices; and (C) encourage the use of noise mitigation techniques to the extent reasonable if the benefits exceed the costs. (3) Conventional-speed trains Railroad-related noise regulations prescribed under subsection (a) shall continue to govern noise emissions from the operation of trains, including locomotives and rail cars, when operating at speeds not exceeding 160 miles per hour. . (b) Technical amendment The second sentence of section 17(b) of the Noise Control Act of 1972 ( 42 U.S.C. 4916(b) the Safety Appliance Acts, the Interstate Commerce Act, and the Department of Transportation Act subtitle V of title 49, United States Code 2424. Critical incident stress plans The Secretary shall amend part 272 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, to the extent necessary to ensure that— (1) the coverage of a critical incident stress plan under section 272.7 of such part includes employees of commuter railroads and intercity passenger railroads (as such terms are defined in section 272.9 of such part), including employees who directly interact with passengers; and (2) an assault against an employee requiring medical attention is included in the definition of critical incident under section 272.9 of such part. III Motor carrier safety 3001. Authorization of appropriations (a) Administrative expenses Section 31110 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by striking subsection (a) and inserting the following: (a) Administrative expenses There are authorized to be appropriated from the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account) for the Secretary of Transportation to pay administrative expenses of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration— (1) $360,000,000 for fiscal year 2022; (2) $367,500,000 for fiscal year 2023; (3) $375,000,000 for fiscal year 2024; (4) $382,500,000 for fiscal year 2025; and (5) $390,000,000 for fiscal year 2026. . (b) Financial assistance programs Section 31104 of title 49, United States Code, is amended— (1) by striking subsection (a) and inserting the following: (a) Financial assistance programs There are authorized to be appropriated from the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account)— (1) subject to subsection (c), to carry out the motor carrier safety assistance program under section 31102 (other than the high priority program under subsection (l) of that section)— (A) $390,500,000 for fiscal year 2022; (B) $398,500,000 for fiscal year 2023; (C) $406,500,000 for fiscal year 2024; (D) $414,500,000 for fiscal year 2025; and (E) $422,500,000 for fiscal year 2026; (2) subject to subsection (c), to carry out the high priority program under section 31102(l) (other than the commercial motor vehicle enforcement training and support grant program under paragraph (5) of that section)— (A) $57,600,000 for fiscal year 2022; (B) $58,800,000 for fiscal year 2023; (C) $60,000,000 for fiscal year 2024; (D) $61,200,000 for fiscal year 2025; and (E) $62,400,000 for fiscal year 2026; (3) to carry out the commercial motor vehicle enforcement training and support grant program under section 31102(l)(5), $5,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2022 through 2026; (4) to carry out the commercial motor vehicle operators grant program under section 31103— (A) $1,100,000 for fiscal year 2022; (B) $1,200,000 for fiscal year 2023; (C) $1,300,000 for fiscal year 2024; (D) $1,400,000 for fiscal year 2025; and (E) $1,500,000 for fiscal year 2026; and (5) subject to subsection (c), to carry out the financial assistance program for commercial driver’s license implementation under section 31313— (A) $41,800,000 for fiscal year 2022; (B) $42,650,000 for fiscal year 2023; (C) $43,500,000 for fiscal year 2024; (D) $44,350,000 for fiscal year 2025; and (E) $45,200,000 for fiscal year 2026. ; (2) in subsection (b)(2)— (A) in the third sentence, by striking The Secretary (C) In-kind contributions The Secretary ; (B) in the second sentence, by striking The Secretary (B) Limitation The Secretary ; (C) in the first sentence— (i) by inserting (except subsection (l)(5) of that section) section 31102 (ii) by striking The Secretary (A) Reimbursement percentage (i) In general The Secretary ; and (D) in subparagraph (A) (as so designated), by adding at the end the following: (ii) Commercial motor vehicle enforcement training and support grant program The Secretary shall reimburse a recipient, in accordance with a financial assistance agreement made under section 31102(l)(5), an amount that is equal to 100 percent of the costs incurred by the recipient in a fiscal year in developing and implementing a training program under that section. ; (3) in subsection (c)— (A) in the subsection heading, by striking partner training and (B) in the first sentence— (i) by striking (4) (5) (ii) by striking partner training and (C) by striking the second sentence; (4) in subsection (f)— (A) in paragraph (1), by striking for the next fiscal year for the next 2 fiscal years (B) in paragraph (4), by striking for the next fiscal year for the next 2 fiscal years (C) by redesignating paragraphs (4) and (5) as paragraphs (5) and (6), respectively; and (D) by inserting after paragraph (3) the following: (4) For grants made for carrying out section 31102(l)(5), for the fiscal year in which the Secretary approves the financial assistance agreement and for the next 4 fiscal years. ; and (5) in subsection (i)— (A) by striking Amounts not expended (1) In general Except as provided in paragraph (2), amounts not expended ; and (B) by adding at the end the following: (2) Motor carrier safety assistance program Amounts made available for the motor carrier safety assistance program established under section 31102 (other than amounts made available to carry out section 31102(l)) that are not expended by a recipient during the period of availability shall be released back to the Secretary for reallocation under that program. . (c) Enforcement data updates Section 31102(h)(2)(A) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by striking 2004 and 2005 2014 and 2015 3002. Motor carrier safety advisory committee Section 4144 of the SAFETEA–LU ( 49 U.S.C. 31100 Public Law 109–59 (1) in subsection (b)(1), in the second sentence, by inserting , including small business motor carriers industry (2) in subsection (d), by striking September 30, 2013 September 30, 2025 3003. Combating human trafficking Section 31102(l) of title 49, United States Code, is amended— (1) in paragraph (2)— (A) in subparagraph (G)(ii), by striking and (B) by redesignating subparagraph (H) as subparagraph (J); and (C) by inserting after subparagraph (G) the following: (H) support, through the use of funds otherwise available for such purposes— (i) the recognition, prevention, and reporting of human trafficking, including the trafficking of human beings— (I) in a commercial motor vehicle; or (II) by any occupant, including the operator, of a commercial motor vehicle; (ii) the detection of criminal activity or any other violation of law relating to human trafficking; and (iii) enforcement of laws relating to human trafficking; (I) otherwise support the recognition, prevention, and reporting of human trafficking; and ; and (2) in paragraph (3)(D)— (A) in clause (ii), by striking and (B) in clause (iii), by striking the period at the end and inserting a semicolon; and (C) by adding at the end the following: (iv) for the detection of, and enforcement actions taken as a result of, criminal activity (including the trafficking of human beings)— (I) in a commercial motor vehicle; or (II) by any occupant, including the operator, of a commercial motor vehicle; and (v) in addition to any funds otherwise made available for the recognition, prevention, and reporting of human trafficking, to support the recognition, prevention, and reporting of human trafficking. . 3004. Immobilization grant program Section 31102(l) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following: (4) Immobilization grant program (A) Definition of passenger-carrying commercial motor vehicle In this paragraph, the term passenger-carrying commercial motor vehicle commercial motor vehicle (B) Establishment The Secretary shall establish an immobilization grant program under which the Secretary shall provide to States discretionary grants for the immobilization or impoundment of passenger-carrying commercial motor vehicles that— (i) are determined to be unsafe; or (ii) fail inspection. (C) List of criteria for immobilization The Secretary, in consultation with State commercial motor vehicle entities, shall develop a list of commercial motor vehicle safety violations and defects that the Secretary determines warrant the immediate immobilization of a passenger-carrying commercial motor vehicle. (D) Eligibility A State shall be eligible to receive a grant under this paragraph only if the State has the authority to require the immobilization or impoundment of a passenger-carrying commercial motor vehicle— (i) with respect to which a motor vehicle safety violation included in the list developed under subparagraph (C) is determined to exist; or (ii) that is determined to have a defect included in that list. (E) Use of funds A grant provided under this paragraph may be used for— (i) the immobilization or impoundment of passenger-carrying commercial motor vehicles described in subparagraph (D); (ii) safety inspections of those passenger-carrying commercial motor vehicles; and (iii) any other activity relating to an activity described in clause (i) or (ii), as determined by the Secretary. (F) Secretary authorization The Secretary may provide to a State amounts for the costs associated with carrying out an immobilization program using funds made available under section 31104(a)(2). . 3005. Commercial motor vehicle enforcement training and support Section 31102(l) of title 49, United States Code (as amended by section 3004), is amended— (1) in paragraph (1), by striking (2) and (3) (2) through (5) (2) in paragraph (3)(E), by striking sections 31104(a)(1) and 31104(a)(2) paragraphs (1) and (2)(A) of section 31104(a) (3) by adding at the end the following: (5) Commercial motor vehicle enforcement training and support grant program (A) In general The Secretary shall administer a commercial motor vehicle enforcement training and support grant program funded under section 31104(a)(2)(B), under which the Secretary shall make discretionary grants to eligible entities described in subparagraph (C) for the purposes described in subparagraph (B). (B) Purposes The purposes of the grant program under subparagraph (A) are— (i) to train non-Federal employees who conduct commercial motor vehicle enforcement activities; and (ii) to develop related training materials. (C) Eligible entities An entity eligible for a discretionary grant under the program described in subparagraph (A) is a nonprofit organization that has— (i) expertise in conducting a training program for non-Federal employees; and (ii) the ability to reach and involve in a training program a target population of commercial motor vehicle safety enforcement employees. . 3006. Study of commercial motor vehicle crash causation (a) Definitions In this section: (1) Commercial motor vehicle The term commercial motor vehicle (2) Study The term study (b) Study The Secretary shall carry out a comprehensive study— (1) to determine the causes of, and contributing factors to, crashes that involve a commercial motor vehicle; and (2) to identify data requirements, data collection procedures, reports, and any other measures that can be used to improve the ability of States and the Secretary— (A) to evaluate future crashes involving commercial motor vehicles; (B) to monitor crash trends and identify causes and contributing factors; and (C) to develop effective safety improvement policies and programs. (c) Design The study shall be designed to yield information that can be used to help policy makers, regulators, and law enforcement identify activities and other measures that are likely to lead to reductions in— (1) the frequency of crashes involving a commercial motor vehicle; (2) the severity of crashes involving a commercial motor vehicle; and (3) fatalities and injuries. (d) Consultation In designing and carrying out the study, the Secretary may consult with individuals or entities with expertise on— (1) crash causation and prevention; (2) commercial motor vehicles, commercial drivers, and motor carriers, including passenger carriers; (3) highways and noncommercial motor vehicles and drivers; (4) Federal and State highway and motor carrier safety programs; (5) research methods and statistical analysis; and (6) other relevant topics, as determined by the Secretary. (e) Public comment The Secretary shall make available for public comment information about the objectives, methodology, implementation, findings, and other aspects of the study. (f) Reports As soon as practicable after the date on which the study is completed, the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report describing the results of the study and any legislative recommendations to facilitate reductions in the matters described in paragraphs (1) through (3) of subsection (c). 3007. Promoting women in the trucking workforce (a) Findings Congress finds that— (1) women make up 47 percent of the workforce of the United States; (2) women are significantly underrepresented in the trucking industry, holding only 24 percent of all transportation and warehousing jobs and representing only— (A) 6.6 percent of truck drivers; (B) 12.5 percent of all workers in truck transportation; and (C) 8 percent of freight firm owners; (3) given the total number of women truck drivers, women are underrepresented in the truck-driving workforce; and (4) women truck drivers have been shown to be 20 percent less likely than male counterparts to be involved in a crash. (b) Sense of Congress regarding women in trucking It is the sense of Congress that the trucking industry should explore every opportunity to encourage and support the pursuit and retention of careers in trucking by women, including through programs that support recruitment, driver training, and mentorship. (c) Definitions In this section: (1) Administrator The term Administrator (2) Board The term Board (3) Large trucking company The term large trucking company (4) Mid-sized trucking company The term mid-sized trucking company (5) Power unit The term power unit (6) Small trucking company The term small trucking company (d) Women of Trucking Advisory Board (1) Establishment To encourage women to enter the field of trucking, the Administrator shall establish and facilitate an advisory board, to be known as the Women of Trucking Advisory Board (A) provide education, training, mentorship, or outreach to women in the trucking industry; and (B) recruit, retain, or advance women in the trucking industry. (2) Membership (A) In general The Board shall be composed of not fewer than 8 members whose backgrounds, experience, and certifications allow those members to contribute balanced points of view and diverse ideas regarding the matters described in paragraph (3)(B). (B) Appointment (i) In general Not later than 270 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall appoint the members of the Board, of whom— (I) not fewer than 1 shall be a representative of large trucking companies; (II) not fewer than 1 shall be a representative of mid-sized trucking companies; (III) not fewer than 1 shall be a representative of small trucking companies; (IV) not fewer than 1 shall be a representative of nonprofit organizations in the trucking industry; (V) not fewer than 1 shall be a representative of trucking business associations; (VI) not fewer than 1 shall be a representative of independent owner-operators; (VII) not fewer than 1 shall be a woman who is a professional truck driver; and (VIII) not fewer than 1 shall be a representative of an institution of higher education or trucking trade school. (ii) Diversity A member of the Board appointed under any of subclauses (I) through (VIII) of clause (i) may not be appointed under any other subclause of that clause. (C) Terms Each member shall be appointed for the life of the Board. (D) Compensation A member of the Board shall serve without compensation. (3) Duties (A) In general The Board shall identify— (i) barriers and industry trends that directly or indirectly discourage women from pursuing and retaining careers in trucking, including— (I) any particular barriers and trends that impact women minority groups; (II) any particular barriers and trends that impact women who live in rural, suburban, or urban areas; and (III) any safety risks unique to women in the trucking industry; (ii) ways in which the functions of trucking companies, nonprofit organizations, training and education providers, and trucking associations may be coordinated to facilitate support for women pursuing careers in trucking; (iii) opportunities to expand existing opportunities for women in the trucking industry; and (iv) opportunities to enhance trucking training, mentorship, education, and advancement and outreach programs that would increase the number of women in the trucking industry. (B) Report Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Board shall submit to the Administrator a report containing the findings and recommendations of the Board, including recommendations that companies, associations, institutions, other organizations, or the Administrator may adopt— (i) to address any industry trends identified under subparagraph (A)(i); (ii) to coordinate the functions of trucking companies, nonprofit organizations, and trucking associations in a manner that facilitates support for women pursuing careers in trucking; (iii) (I) to take advantage of any opportunities identified under subparagraph (A)(iii); and (II) to create new opportunities to expand existing scholarship opportunities for women in the trucking industry; and (iv) to enhance trucking training, men­tor­ship, education, and outreach programs that are exclusive to women. (4) Report to Congress (A) In general Not later than 3 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives a report describing— (i) the findings and recommendations of the Board under paragraph (3)(B); and (ii) any actions taken by the Administrator to adopt the recommendations of the Board (or an explanation of the reasons for not adopting the recommendations). (B) Public availability The Administrator shall make the report under subparagraph (A) publicly available— (i) on the website of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration; and (ii) in appropriate offices of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. (5) Termination The Board shall terminate on submission of the report to Congress under paragraph (4). 3008. State inspection of passenger-carrying commercial motor vehicles (a) In general Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall solicit additional comment on the advance notice of proposed rulemaking entitled State Inspection Programs for Passenger-Carrier Vehicles (b) Final rule (1) In general After reviewing all comments received in response to the solicitation under subsection (a), if the Secretary determines that data and information exist to support moving forward with a final rulemaking action, the Secretary shall issue a final rule relating to the advance notice of proposed rulemaking described in that subsection. (2) Considerations In determining whether to issue a final rule under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall consider the impact of continuing to allow self-inspection as a means to satisfy periodic inspection requirements on the safety of passenger carrier operations. 3009. Truck Leasing Task Force (a) Establishment Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of Labor, shall establish a task force, to be known as the Truck Leasing Task Force Task Force (b) Membership (1) In general The Secretary shall select not more than 10 individuals to serve as members of the Task Force, including at least 1 representative from each of the following: (A) Labor organizations. (B) Motor carriers that provide lease-purchase agreements to owner-operators. (C) Consumer protection groups. (D) Members of the legal profession who specialize in consumer finance issues, including experience with lease-purchase agreements. (E) Owner-operators in the trucking industry with experience regarding lease-purchase agreements. (F) Businesses that provide or are subject to lease-purchase agreements in the trucking industry. (2) Compensation A member of the Task Force shall serve without compensation. (c) Duties The Task Force shall examine, at a minimum— (1) common truck leasing arrangements available to commercial motor vehicle drivers, including lease-purchase agreements; (2) the terms of the leasing agreements described in paragraph (1); (3) (A) the existence of inequitable leasing agreements and terms in the motor carrier industry; (B) whether any such inequitable terms and agreements affect the frequency of maintenance performed on vehicles subject to those agreements; and (C) whether any such inequitable terms and agreements affect whether a vehicle is kept in a general state of good repair; (4) specific agreements available to drayage drivers at ports relating to the Clean Truck Program or any similar program to decrease emissions from port operations; (5) the impact of truck leasing agreements on the net compensation of commercial motor vehicle drivers, including port drayage drivers; (6) whether truck leasing agreements properly incentivize the safe operation of vehicles, including driver compliance with the hours of service regulations and laws governing speed and safety generally; (7) resources to assist commercial motor vehicle drivers in assessing the financial impacts of leasing agreements; and (8) (A) the opportunity that equitable leasing agreements provide for drivers to start or expand trucking companies; and (B) the history of motor carriers starting from single owner-operators. (d) Report On completion of the examination under subsection (c), the Task Force shall submit to the Secretary, the Secretary of Labor, and the appropriate committees of Congress a report containing— (1) the findings of the Task Force with respect to the matters described in subsection (c); (2) best practices relating to— (A) assisting a commercial motor vehicle driver in assessing the impacts of leasing agreements prior to entering into such an agreement; (B) assisting a commercial motor vehicle driver who has entered into a predatory lease agreement; and (C) preventing coercion and impacts on safety as described in section 31136 of title 49, United States Code; and (3) recommendations relating to changes to laws (including regulations), as applicable, at the Federal, State, or local level to promote fair leasing agreements under which a commercial motor vehicle driver, including a short haul driver, who is a party to such an agreement is able to earn a rate commensurate with other commercial motor vehicle drivers performing similar duties. (e) Termination Not later than 30 days after the date on which the report under subsection (d) is submitted, the Task Force shall terminate. 3010. Automatic emergency braking (a) Definitions In this section: (1) Automatic emergency braking system The term automatic emergency braking system (A) alerts the driver of the obstacle; and (B) if necessary to avoid or mitigate a collision with the obstacle, automatically applies the brakes of the commercial motor vehicle. (2) Commercial motor vehicle The term commercial motor vehicle (b) Federal motor vehicle safety standard Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall— (1) prescribe a motor vehicle safety standard under section 30111 of title 49, United States Code, that requires any commercial motor vehicle subject to section 571.136 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations (relating to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Number 136) (or a successor regulation) that is manufactured after the effective date of the standard prescribed under this paragraph to be equipped with an automatic emergency braking system; and (2) as part of the standard under paragraph (1), establish performance requirements for automatic emergency braking systems. (c) Federal motor carrier safety regulation Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall prescribe a regulation under section 31136 of title 49, United States Code, that requires that an automatic emergency braking system installed in a commercial motor vehicle manufactured after the effective date of the standard prescribed under subsection (b)(1) that is in operation on or after that date and is subject to section 571.136 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations (relating to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Number 136) (or a successor regulation) be used at any time during which the commercial motor vehicle is in operation. (d) Report on automatic emergency braking in other commercial motor vehicles (1) Study Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall complete a study on equipping a variety of commercial motor vehicles not subject to section 571.136 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations (relating to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Number 136) (or a successor regulation) as of that date of enactment with automatic emergency braking systems to avoid or mitigate a collision with an obstacle in the path of the commercial motor vehicle, including an assessment of the feasibility, benefits, and costs associated with installing automatic emergency braking systems on a variety of newly manufactured commercial motor vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating greater than 10,001 pounds. (2) Independent research If the Secretary enters into a contract with a third party to perform research relating to the study required under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall ensure that the third party does not have any financial or contractual ties to, or relationships with— (A) a motor carrier that transports passengers or property for compensation; (B) the motor carrier industry; or (C) an entity producing or supplying automatic emergency braking systems. (3) Public comment Not later than 90 days after the date on which the study under paragraph (1) is completed, the Secretary shall— (A) issue a notice in the Federal Register containing the findings of the study; and (B) provide an opportunity for public comment. (4) Report to Congress Not later than 90 days after the conclusion of the public comment period under paragraph (3)(B), the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committees on Transportation and Infrastructure and Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives a report that includes— (A) the results of the study under paragraph (1); (B) a summary of any comments received under paragraph (3)(B); and (C) a determination as to whether the Secretary intends to develop performance requirements for automatic emergency braking systems for applicable commercial motor vehicles, including any analysis that led to that determination. (5) Rulemaking Not later than 2 years after the date on which the study under paragraph (1) is completed, the Secretary shall— (A) determine whether a motor vehicle safety standard relating to equipping the commercial motor vehicles described in that paragraph with automatic emergency braking systems would meet the requirements and considerations described in subsections (a) and (b) of section 30111 of title 49, United States Code; and (B) if the Secretary determines that a motor vehicle safety standard described in subparagraph (A) would meet the requirements and considerations described in that subparagraph, initiate a rulemaking to prescribe such a motor vehicle safety standard. 3011. Underride protection (a) Definitions In this section: (1) Committee The term Committee (2) Motor carrier The term motor carrier (3) Passenger motor vehicle The term passenger motor vehicle (4) Underride crash The term underride crash (b) Rear underride guards (1) Trailers and semitrailers (A) In general Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall promulgate such regulations as are necessary to revise sections 571.223 and 571.224 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations (relating to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Numbers 223 and 224, respectively), to require trailers and semitrailers manufactured after the date on which those regulations are promulgated to be equipped with rear impact guards that are designed to prevent passenger compartment intrusion from a trailer or semitrailer when a passenger motor vehicle traveling at 35 miles per hour makes— (i) an impact in which the passenger motor vehicle impacts the center of the rear of the trailer or semitrailer; (ii) an impact in which 50 percent of the width of the passenger motor vehicle overlaps the rear of the trailer or semitrailer; and (iii) an impact in which 30 percent of the width of the passenger motor vehicle overlaps the rear of the trailer or semitrailer, if the Secretary determines that a revision of sections 571.223 and 571.224 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations (relating to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard Numbers 223 and 224, respectively) to address such an impact would meet the requirements and considerations described in subsections (a) and (b) of section 30111 of title 49, United States Code. (B) Effective date The regulations promulgated under subparagraph (A) shall require full compliance with each Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard revised pursuant to those regulations not later than 2 years after the date on which those regulations are promulgated. (2) Additional research The Secretary shall conduct additional research on the design and development of rear impact guards that can— (A) prevent underride crashes in cases in which the passenger motor vehicle is traveling at speeds of up to 65 miles per hour; and (B) protect passengers in passenger motor vehicles against severe injury in crashes in which the passenger motor vehicle is traveling at speeds of up to 65 miles per hour. (3) Review of standards Not later than 5 years after the date on which the regulations under paragraph (1)(A) are promulgated, the Secretary shall— (A) review the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards revised pursuant to those regulations and any other requirements of those regulations relating to rear underride guards on trailers or semitrailers to evaluate the need for changes in response to advancements in technology; and (B) update those Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards and those regulations accordingly. (4) Inspections (A) In general Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall promulgate such regulations as are necessary to revise the regulations relating to minimum periodic inspection standards under appendix G to subchapter B of chapter III of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, and the regulations relating to driver vehicle inspection reports under section 396.11 of that title to include requirements relating to rear impact guards and rear end protection that are consistent with the requirements described in section 393.86 of that title. (B) Considerations In revising the regulations described in subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall consider it to be a defect or a deficiency if a rear impact guard is missing an, or has a corroded or compromised, element that affects the structural integrity and protective feature of the rear impact guard. (c) Side underride guards (1) In general Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall— (A) complete additional research on side underride guards to better understand the overall effectiveness of side underride guards; (B) assess the feasibility, benefits, and costs of, and any impacts on intermodal equipment, freight mobility (including port operations), and freight capacity associated with, installing side underride guards on newly manufactured trailers and semitrailers with a gross vehicle weight rating of 10,000 pounds or more; (C) consider the unique structural and operational aspects of— (i) intermodal chassis (as defined in section 340.2 of title 46, Code of Federal Regulations; and (ii) pole trailers (as defined in section 390.5 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations; and (D) if warranted, develop performance standards for side underride guards. (2) Independent research If the Secretary enters into a contract with a third party to perform the research required under paragraph (1)(A), the Secretary shall ensure that the third party does not have any financial or contractual ties to, or relationships with— (A) a motor carrier that transports passengers or property for compensation; (B) the motor carrier industry; or (C) an entity producing or supplying underride guards. (3) Publication of assessment Not later than 90 days after completion of the assessment required under paragraph (1)(B), the Secretary shall— (A) issue a notice in the Federal Register containing the findings of the assessment; and (B) provide an opportunity for public comment. (4) Report to congress Not later than 90 days after the conclusion of the public comment period under paragraph (3)(B), the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives a report that includes— (A) the results of the assessment under paragraph (1)(B); (B) a summary of any comments received by the Secretary under paragraph (3)(B); and (C) a determination as to whether the Secretary intends to develop performance requirements for side underride guards, including any analysis that led to that determination. (d) Advisory committee on underride protection (1) Establishment The Secretary shall establish an Advisory Committee on Underride Protection to provide advice and recommendations to the Secretary on safety regulations to reduce underride crashes and fatalities relating to underride crashes. (2) Membership (A) In general The Committee shall be composed of not more than 20 members, appointed by the Secretary, who— (i) are not employees of the Department; and (ii) are qualified to serve on the Committee because of their expertise, training, or experience. (B) Representation The Committee shall include 2 representatives of each of the following: (i) Truck and trailer manufacturers. (ii) Motor carriers, including independent owner-operators. (iii) Law enforcement. (iv) Motor vehicle engineers. (v) Motor vehicle crash investigators. (vi) Truck safety organizations. (vii) The insurance industry. (viii) Emergency medical service providers. (ix) Families of underride crash victims. (x) Labor organizations. (3) Compensation Members of the Committee shall serve without compensation. (4) Meetings The Committee shall meet not less frequently than annually. (5) Support On request of the Committee, the Secretary shall provide information, administrative services, and supplies necessary for the Committee to carry out the duties of the Committee. (6) Report The Committee shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives a biennial report that— (A) describes the advice and recommendations made to the Secretary; and (B) includes an assessment of progress made by the Secretary in advancing safety regulations relating to underride crashes. (e) Data collection Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall implement the recommendations described in the report of the Government Accountability Office entitled Truck Underride Guards: Improved Data Collection, Inspections, and Research Needed 3012. Providers of recreational activities Section 13506(b) of title 49, United States Code, is amended— (1) in paragraph (2), by striking or (2) in paragraph (3), by striking the period at the end and inserting ; or (3) by adding at the end the following: (4) transportation by a motor vehicle designed or used to transport not fewer than 9, and not more than 15, passengers (including the driver), whether operated alone or with a trailer attached for the transport of recreational equipment, if— (A) the motor vehicle is operated by a person that provides recreational activities; (B) the transportation is provided within a 150 air-mile radius of the location at which passengers initially boarded the motor vehicle at the outset of the trip; and (C) in the case of a motor vehicle transporting passengers over a route between a place in a State and a place in another State, the person operating the motor vehicle is lawfully providing transportation of passengers over the entire route in accordance with applicable State law. . 3013. Amendments to regulations relating to transportation of household goods in interstate commerce (a) Definitions In this section: (1) Administration The term Administration (2) Covered carrier The term covered carrier (A) engaged in the interstate transportation of household goods; and (B) subject to the requirements of part 375 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations (as in effect on the effective date of any amendments made pursuant to the notice of proposed rulemaking issued under subsection (b)). (b) Amendments to regulations Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall issue a notice of proposed rulemaking to amend, as the Secretary determines to be appropriate, regulations relating to the interstate transportation of household goods. (c) Considerations In issuing the notice of proposed rulemaking under subsection (b), the Secretary shall consider amending the following provisions of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, in accordance with the following recommendations: (1) Section 375.207(b) to require each covered carrier to include on the website of the covered carrier a link— (A) to the publication of the Administration entitled Ready to Move—Tips for a Successful Interstate Move (B) to a copy of the publication referred to in subparagraph (A) on the website of the covered carrier. (2) Subsections (a) and (b)(1) of section 375.213 to require each covered carrier to provide to each individual shipper, together with any written estimate provided to the shipper, a copy of the publication described in appendix A of part 375 of that title, entitled Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move (3) Section 375.213 to repeal subsection (e) of that section. (4) Section 375.401(a) to require each covered carrier— (A) to conduct a visual survey of the household goods to be transported by the covered carrier— (i) in person; or (ii) virtually, using— (I) a remote camera; or (II) another appropriate technology; (B) to offer a visual survey described in subparagraph (A) for all household goods shipments, regardless of the distance between— (i) the location of the household goods; and (ii) the location of the agent of the covered carrier preparing the estimate; and (C) to provide to each shipper a copy of the publication of the Administration entitled Ready to Move—Tips for a Successful Interstate Move (5) Sections 375.401(b)(1), 375.403(a)(6)(ii), and 375.405(b)(7)(ii), and subpart D of appendix A of part 375, to require that, in any case in which a shipper tenders any additional item or requests any additional service prior to loading a shipment, the affected covered carrier shall— (A) prepare a new estimate; and (B) maintain a record of the date, time, and manner in which the new estimate was accepted by the shipper. (6) Section 375.501(a), to establish that a covered carrier is not required to provide to a shipper an order for service if the covered carrier elects to provide the information described in paragraphs (1) through (15) of that section in a bill of lading that is presented to the shipper before the covered carrier receives the shipment. (7) Subpart H of part 375, to replace the replace the terms freight bill expense bill invoice 3014. Improving Federal-State motor carrier safety enforcement coordination (a) Definitions In this section: (1) Covered State The term covered State (2) Imminent hazard The term imminent hazard (b) Review and enforcement of State out-of-Service orders As soon as practicable after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall publish in the Federal Register a process under which the Secretary shall review each out-of-service order issued by a covered State in accordance with section 31144(d) of title 49, United States Code, by not later than 30 days after the date on which the out-of-service order is submitted to the Secretary by the covered State. (c) Review and enforcement of State imminent hazard determinations (1) In general As soon as practicable after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall publish in the Federal Register a process under which the Secretary shall review imminent hazard determinations made by covered States. (2) Enforcement On reviewing an imminent hazard determination under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall pursue enforcement under section 521 of title 49, United States Code, as the Secretary determines to be appropriate. 3015. Limousine research (a) Definitions In this section: (1) Limousine The term limousine (A) that has a seating capacity of 9 or more persons (including the driver); (B) with a gross vehicle weight rating greater than 10,000 pounds but not greater than 26,000 pounds; and (C) that the Secretary has determined by regulation has physical characteristics resembling— (i) a passenger car; (ii) a multipurpose passenger vehicle; or (iii) a truck with a gross vehicle weight rating of 10,000 pounds or less. (2) Limousine operator The term limousine operator (3) Motor vehicle safety standard The term motor vehicle safety standard (4) State The term State (b) Crashworthiness (1) Research Not later than 4 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall complete research into the development of motor vehicle safety standards for side impact protection, roof crush resistance, and air bag systems for the protection of occupants in limousines with alternative seating positions, including perimeter seating arrangements. (2) Rulemaking or report (A) Crashworthiness standards (i) In general Subject to clause (ii), not later than 2 years after the date on which the research under paragraph (1) is completed, the Secretary shall prescribe, for the protection of occupants in limousines with alternative seating positions, a final motor vehicle safety standard for each of the following: (I) Side impact protection. (II) Roof crush resistance. (III) Air bag systems. (ii) Requirements and considerations The Secretary may only prescribe a motor vehicle safety standard described in clause (i) if the Secretary determines that the standard meets the requirements and considerations described in subsections (a) and (b) of section 30111 of title 49, United States Code. (B) Report If the Secretary determines that a motor vehicle safety standard described in subparagraph (A)(i) would not meet the requirements and considerations described in subsections (a) and (b) of section 30111 of title 49, United States Code, the Secretary shall publish in the Federal Register and submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives a report describing the reasons for not prescribing the standard. (c) Evacuation (1) Research Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall complete research into safety features and standards that aid evacuation in the event that an exit in the passenger compartment of a limousine is blocked. (2) Rulemaking or report (A) Limousine evacuation (i) In general Subject to clause (ii), not later than 2 years after the date on which the research under paragraph (1) is completed, the Secretary shall prescribe a final motor vehicle safety standard based on the results of that research. (ii) Requirements and considerations The Secretary may only prescribe a motor vehicle safety standard described in clause (i) if the Secretary determines that the standard meets the requirements and considerations described in subsections (a) and (b) of section 30111 of title 49, United States Code. (B) Report If the Secretary determines that a standard described in subparagraph (A)(i) would not meet the requirements and considerations described in subsections (a) and (b) of section 30111 of title 49, United States Code, the Secretary shall publish in the Federal Register and submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives a report describing the reasons for not prescribing the standard. (d) Limousine inspection disclosure (1) In general A limousine operator may not introduce a limousine into interstate commerce unless the limousine operator has prominently disclosed in a clear and conspicuous notice, including on the website of the operator if the operator has a website, the following: (A) The date of the most recent inspection of the limousine required under State or Federal law, if applicable. (B) The results of the inspection, if applicable. (C) Any corrective action taken by the limousine operator to ensure the limousine passed inspection, if applicable. (2) Federal trade commission enforcement (A) In general The Federal Trade Commission shall enforce this subsection in the same manner, by the same means, and with the same jurisdiction, powers, and duties as though all applicable terms and provisions of the Federal Trade Commission Act ( 15 U.S.C. 41 (B) Treatment Any person who violates this subsection shall be subject to the penalties and entitled to the privileges and immunities provided in the Federal Trade Commission Act ( 15 U.S.C. 41 (3) Savings provision Nothing in this subsection limits the authority of the Federal Trade Commission under any other provision of law. (4) Effective date This subsection shall take effect on the date that is 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act. 3016. National Consumer Complaint Database (a) In general Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives a report on the National Consumer Complaint Database of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. (b) Contents The report under subsection (a) shall include— (1) a review of the process and effectiveness of efforts to review and follow-up on complaints submitted to the National Consumer Complaint Database; (2) an identification of the top 5 complaint categories; (3) an identification of— (A) the process that the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration uses to determine which entities to take enforcement actions against; and (B) the top categories of enforcement actions taken by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration; (4) a review of the use of the National Consumer Complaint Database website over the 5-year period ending on December 31, 2020, including information obtained by conducting interviews with drivers, customers of movers of household goods, brokers, motor carriers, including small business motor carriers, and other users of the website to determine the usability of the website; (5) a review of efforts taken by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration to raise awareness of the National Consumer Complaint Database; and (6) recommendations, as appropriate, including with respect to methods— (A) for improving the usability of the National Consumer Complaint Database website; (B) for improving the review of complaints; (C) for using data collected through the National Consumer Complaint Database to identify bad actors; (D) to improve confidence and transparency in the complaint process; and (E) for improving stakeholder awareness of and participation in the National Consumer Complaint Database and the complaint system, including improved communication about the purpose of the National Consumer Complaint Database. 3017. Electronic logging device oversight Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report detailing the processes— (1) used by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration— (A) to review electronic logging device logs; and (B) to protect proprietary information and personally identifiable information obtained from electronic logging device logs; and (2) through which an operator may challenge or appeal a violation notice issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration relating to an electronic logging device. IV Highway and motor vehicle safety A Highway traffic safety 4101. Authorization of appropriations (a) In general The following amounts are authorized to be appropriated out of the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account): (1) Highway safety programs To carry out section 402 of title 23, United States Code— (A) $363,400,000 for fiscal year 2022; (B) $370,900,000 for fiscal year 2023; (C) $378,400,000 for fiscal year 2024; (D) $385,900,000 for fiscal year 2025; and (E) $393,400,000 for fiscal year 2026. (2) Highway safety research and development To carry out section 403 of title 23, United States Code— (A) $186,000,000 for fiscal year 2022; (B) $190,000,000 for fiscal year 2023; (C) $194,000,000 for fiscal year 2024; (D) $198,000,000 for fiscal year 2025; and (E) $202,000,000 for fiscal year 2026. (3) High-visibility enforcement program To carry out section 404 of title 23, United States Code— (A) $36,400,000 for fiscal year 2022; (B) $38,300,000 for fiscal year 2023; (C) $40,300,000 for fiscal year 2024; (D) $42,300,000 for fiscal year 2025; and (E) $44,300,000 for fiscal year 2026. (4) National priority safety programs To carry out section 405 of title 23, United States Code— (A) $336,500,000 for fiscal year 2022; (B) $346,500,000 for fiscal year 2023; (C) $353,500,000 for fiscal year 2024; (D) $360,500,000 for fiscal year 2025; and (E) $367,500,000 for fiscal year 2026. (5) Administrative expenses For administrative and related operating expenses of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in carrying out chapter 4 (A) $38,000,000 for fiscal year 2022; (B) $39,520,000 for fiscal year 2023; (C) $41,100,800 for fiscal year 2024; (D) $42,744,832 for fiscal year 2025; and (E) $44,454,625 for fiscal year 2026. (6) National driver register For the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to carry out chapter 303 (A) $6,800,000 for fiscal year 2022; (B) $7,000,000 for fiscal year 2023; (C) $7,200,000 for fiscal year 2024; (D) $7,400,000 for fiscal year 2025; and (E) $7,600,000 for fiscal year 2026. (b) Prohibition on other uses Except as otherwise provided in chapter 4 chapter 303 (1) shall only be used to carry out that program; and (2) may not be used by a State or local government for construction purposes. (c) Applicability of title 23 Except as otherwise provided in chapter 4 chapter 303 chapter 1 (d) Highway safety general requirements (1) In general Chapter 4 (A) by redesignating sections 409 and 412 as sections 407 and 408, respectively; and (B) by inserting after section 405 the following: 406. General requirements for Federal assistance (a) Definition of funded project In this section, the term funded project (b) Regulatory authority Each funded project shall be carried out in accordance with applicable regulations promulgated by the Secretary. (c) State matching requirements If a grant provided under this chapter requires any State to share in the cost of a funded project, the aggregate of the expenditures made by the State (including any political subdivision of the State) for highway safety activities during a fiscal year, exclusive of Federal funds, for carrying out the funded project (other than expenditures for planning or administration) shall be credited toward the non-Federal share of the cost of any other funded project (other than planning and administration) during that fiscal year, regardless of whether those expenditures were made in connection with the project. (d) Grant application and deadline (1) Applications To be eligible to receive a grant under this chapter, a State shall submit to the Secretary an application at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary may require. (2) Deadline The Secretary shall establish a single deadline for the submission of applications under paragraph (1) to enable the provision of grants under this chapter early in the first fiscal year beginning after the date of submission. (e) Distribution of funds to States Not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of any appropriations Act making funds available to carry out this chapter, the Secretary shall distribute to each State the portion of those funds to which the State is entitled for the applicable fiscal year. . (2) Clerical amendment The analysis for chapter 4 406. General requirements for Federal assistance. 407. Discovery and admission as evidence of certain reports and surveys. 408. Agency accountability. . 4102. Highway safety programs (a) In general Section 402 of title 23, United States Code, is amended— (1) by striking accidents crashes (2) by striking accident crash (3) in subsection (a)— (A) in paragraph (1), by striking shall have shall have in effect a highway safety program that— (i) is designed to reduce— (I) traffic crashes; and (II) deaths, injuries, and property damage resulting from those crashes; (ii) includes— (I) an approved, current, triennial highway safety plan in accordance with subsection (k); and (II) an approved grant application under subsection (l) for the fiscal year; (iii) demonstrates compliance with the applicable administrative requirements of subsection (b)(1); and (iv) is approved by the Secretary. ; (B) in paragraph (2)(A)— (i) in clause (ii), by striking occupant protection devices (including the use of safety belts and child restraint systems) safety belts (ii) in clause (vii), by striking and (iii) by redesignating clauses (iii) through (viii) as clauses (iv) through (ix), respectively; (iv) by inserting after clause (ii) the following: (iii) to encourage more widespread and proper use of child restraints, with an emphasis on underserved populations; ; and (v) by adding at the end the following: (x) to reduce crashes caused by driver misuse or misunderstanding of new vehicle technology; (xi) to increase vehicle recall awareness; (xii) to provide to the public information relating to the risks of child heatstroke death when left unattended in a motor vehicle after the motor is deactivated by the operator; (xiii) to reduce injuries and deaths resulting from the failure by drivers of motor vehicles to move to another traffic lane or reduce the speed of the vehicle when law enforcement, fire service, emergency medical services, or other emergency or first responder vehicles are stopped or parked on or next to a roadway with emergency lights activated; and (xiv) to prevent crashes, injuries, and deaths caused by unsecured vehicle loads; ; and (C) by adding at the end the following: (3) Additional considerations A State that has legalized medicinal or recreational marijuana shall take into consideration implementing programs in addition to the programs described in paragraph (2)(A)— (A) to educate drivers regarding the risks associated with marijuana-impaired driving; and (B) to reduce injuries and deaths resulting from individuals driving motor vehicles while impaired by marijuana. ; (4) in subsection (b)(1)— (A) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking may shall (B) by striking subparagraph (B) and inserting the following: (B) provide for a comprehensive, data-driven traffic safety program that results from meaningful public participation and engagement from affected communities, particularly those most significantly impacted by traffic crashes resulting in injuries and fatalities; ; (C) in subparagraph (C), by striking authorized in accordance with subparagraph (B) (D) in subparagraph (D), by striking with disabilities, including those in wheelchairs , including those with disabilities and those in wheelchairs (E) by striking subparagraph (E) and inserting the following: (E) as part of a comprehensive program, support— (i) data-driven traffic safety enforcement programs that foster effective community collaboration to increase public safety; and (ii) data collection and analysis to ensure transparency, identify disparities in traffic enforcement, and inform traffic enforcement policies, procedures, and activities; and ; and (F) in subparagraph (F)— (i) in clause (i), by striking national law enforcement mobilizations and high-visibility national, high-visibility (ii) in clause (iv), by striking and (iii) in clause (v), by striking the period at the end and inserting ; and (iv) by adding at the end the following: (vi) unless the State highway safety program is developed by American Samoa, Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, or the United States Virgin Islands, participation in the Fatality Analysis Reporting System. ; (5) in subsection (c)— (A) in paragraph (1)— (i) by striking the paragraph designation and heading and all that follows through Funds authorized (1) Use for State activities (A) In general The funds authorized ; and (ii) by adding at the end the following: (B) Neighboring States A State, acting in cooperation with any neighboring State, may use funds provided under this section for a highway safety program that may confer a benefit on the neighboring State. ; (B) by striking paragraphs (2) and (3) and inserting the following: (2) Apportionment to States (A) Definition of public road In this paragraph, the term public road (i) subject to the jurisdiction of, and maintained by, a public authority; and (ii) held open to public travel. (B) Apportionment (i) In general Except for the amounts identified in section 403(f) and the amounts subject to subparagraph (C), of the funds made available under this section— (I) 75 percent shall be apportioned to each State based on the ratio that, as determined by the most recent decennial census— (aa) the population of the State; bears to (bb) the total population of all States; and (II) 25 percent shall be apportioned to each State based on the ratio that, subject to clause (ii)— (aa) the public road mileage in each State; bears to (bb) the total public road mileage in all States. (ii) Calculation For purposes of clause (i)(II), public road mileage shall be— (I) determined as of the end of the calendar year preceding the year during which the funds are apportioned; (II) certified by the Governor of the State; and (III) subject to approval by the Secretary. (C) Minimum apportionments The annual apportionment under this section to— (i) each State shall be not less than 3/4 (ii) the Secretary of the Interior shall be not less than 2 percent of the total apportionment; and (iii) the United States Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands shall be not less than 1/4 (D) Penalty (i) In general The funds apportioned under this section to a State that does not have approved or in effect a highway safety program described in subsection (a)(1) shall be reduced by an amount equal to not less than 20 percent of the amount that would otherwise be apportioned to the State under this section, until the date on which the Secretary, as applicable— (I) approves such a highway safety program; or (II) determines that the State is implementing such a program. (ii) Factor for consideration In determining the amount of the reduction in funds apportioned to a State under this subparagraph, the Secretary shall take into consideration the gravity of the failure by the State to secure approval, or to implement, a highway safety program described in subsection (a)(1). (E) Limitations (i) In general A highway safety program approved by the Secretary shall not include any requirement that a State shall implement such a program by adopting or enforcing any law, rule, or regulation based on a guideline promulgated by the Secretary under this section requiring any motorcycle operator aged 18 years or older, or a motorcycle passenger aged 18 years or older, to wear a safety helmet when operating or riding a motorcycle on the streets and highways of that State. (ii) Effect of guidelines Nothing in this section requires a State highway safety program to require compliance with every uniform guideline, or with every element of every uniform guideline, in every State. (3) Reapportionment (A) In general The Secretary shall promptly apportion to a State any funds withheld from the State under paragraph (2)(D) if the Secretary makes an approval or determination, as applicable, described in that paragraph by not later than July 31 of the fiscal year for which the funds were withheld. (B) Continuing State failure If the Secretary determines that a State fails to correct a failure to have approved or in effect a highway safety program described in subsection (a)(1) by the date described in subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall reapportion the funds withheld from that State under paragraph (2)(D) for the fiscal year to the other States in accordance with the formula described in paragraph (2)(B) by not later than the last day of the fiscal year. ; and (C) in paragraph (4)— (i) by striking subparagraph (C); (ii) by redesignating subparagraphs (A) and (B) as subparagraphs (B) and (A), respectively, and moving the subparagraphs so as to appear in alphabetical order; and (iii) by adding at the end the following: (C) Special rule for school and work zones Notwithstanding subparagraph (B), a State may expend funds apportioned to the State under this section to carry out a program to purchase, operate, or maintain an automated traffic enforcement system in a work zone or school zone. (D) Automated traffic enforcement system guidelines An automated traffic enforcement system installed pursuant to subparagraph (C) shall comply with such guidelines applicable to speed enforcement camera systems and red light camera systems as are established by the Secretary. ; (6) in subsection (k)— (A) by striking the subsection designation and heading and all that follows through thereafter (k) Triennial highway safety plan (1) In general For fiscal year 2022, and not less frequently than once every 3 fiscal years thereafter ; (B) in paragraph (1), by striking for that fiscal year, to develop and submit to the Secretary for approval a highway safety plan for the 3 fiscal years covered by the plan, to develop and submit to the Secretary for approval a triennial highway safety plan (C) by striking paragraph (2) and inserting the following: (2) Timing Each State shall submit to the Secretary a triennial highway safety plan by not later than July 1 of the fiscal year preceding the first fiscal year covered by the plan. ; (D) in paragraph (3), by inserting triennial highway (E) in paragraph (4)— (i) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A)— (I) by striking State highway safety plans Each State triennial highway safety plan (II) by inserting , with respect to the 3 fiscal years covered by the plan, based on the information available on the date of submission under paragraph (2) include (ii) in subparagraph (A)(ii), by striking annual performance targets performance targets that demonstrate constant or improved performance (iii) by striking subparagraph (B) and inserting the following: (B) a countermeasure strategy for programming funds under this section for projects that will allow the State to meet the performance targets described in subparagraph (A), including a description— (i) that demonstrates the link between the effectiveness of each proposed countermeasure strategy and those performance targets; and (ii) of the manner in which each countermeasure strategy is informed by uniform guidelines issued by the Secretary; ; and (iv) in subparagraph (D), by striking , State, local, or private (F) by striking paragraph (5) and inserting the following: (5) Performance measures The Secretary shall develop minimum performance measures under paragraph (4)(A) in consultation with the Governors Highway Safety Association. ; and (G) in paragraph (6)— (i) in the paragraph heading, by inserting triennial highway (ii) by redesignating subparagraphs (B) through (E) as subparagraphs (C) through (F), respectively; (iii) in each of subparagraphs (C) through (F) (as so redesignated), by inserting triennial highway (iv) by striking subparagraph (A) and inserting the following: (A) In general Except as provided in subparagraph (B), the Secretary shall review and approve or disapprove a triennial highway safety plan of a State by not later than 60 days after the date on which the plan is received by the Secretary. (B) Additional information (i) In general The Secretary may request a State to submit to the Secretary such additional information as the Secretary determines to be necessary for review of the triennial highway safety plan of the State. (ii) Extension of deadline On providing to a State a request for additional information under clause (i), the Secretary may extend the deadline to approve or disapprove the triennial highway safety plan of the State under subparagraph (A) for not more than an additional 90 days, as the Secretary determines to be necessary to accommodate that request, subject to clause (iii). (iii) Timing Any additional information requested under clause (i) shall be submitted to the Secretary by not later than 7 business days after the date of receipt by the State of the request. ; (7) by inserting after subsection (k) the following: (l) Annual grant application and reporting requirements (1) Annual grant application (A) In general To be eligible to receive grant funds under this chapter for a fiscal year, each State shall submit to the Secretary an annual grant application that, as determined by the Secretary— (i) demonstrates alignment with the approved triennial highway safety plan of the State; and (ii) complies with the requirements under this subsection. (B) Timing The deadline for submission of annual grant applications under this paragraph shall be determined by the Secretary in accordance with section 406(d)(2). (C) Contents An annual grant application under this paragraph shall include, at a minimum— (i) such updates as the State determines to be necessary to any analysis included in the triennial highway safety plan of the State; (ii) an identification of each project and subrecipient to be funded by the State using the grants during the upcoming grant year, subject to the condition that the State shall separately submit, on a date other than the date of submission of the annual grant application, a description of any projects or subrecipients to be funded, as that information becomes available; (iii) a description of the means by which the strategy of the State to use grant funds was adjusted and informed by the previous report of the State under paragraph (2); and (iv) an application for any additional grants available to the State under this chapter. (D) Review The Secretary shall review and approve or disapprove an annual grant application under this paragraph by not later than 60 days after the date of submission of the application. (2) Reporting requirements Not later than 120 days after the end of each fiscal year for which a grant is provided to a State under this chapter, the State shall submit to the Secretary an annual report that includes— (A) an assessment of the progress made by the State in achieving the performance targets identified in the triennial highway safety plan of the State, based on the most currently available Fatality Analysis Reporting System data; and (B) (i) a description of the extent to which progress made in achieving those performance targets is aligned with the triennial highway safety plan of the State; and (ii) if applicable, any plans of the State to adjust a strategy for programming funds to achieve the performance targets. ; (8) in subsection (m)(1), by striking a State’s highway safety plan the applicable triennial highway safety plan of the State (9) by striking subsection (n) and inserting the following: (n) Public transparency (1) In general The Secretary shall publicly release on a Department of Transportation website, by not later than 45 calendar days after the applicable date of availability— (A) each triennial highway safety plan approved by the Secretary under subsection (k); (B) each State performance target under subsection (k); and (C) an evaluation of State achievement of applicable performance targets under subsection (k). (2) State highway safety plan website (A) In general In carrying out paragraph (1), the Secretary shall establish a public website that is easily accessible, navigable, and searchable for the information required under that paragraph, in order to foster greater transparency in approved State highway safety programs. (B) Contents The website established under subparagraph (A) shall— (i) include the applicable triennial highway safety plan, and the annual report, of each State submitted to, and approved by, the Secretary under subsection (k); and (ii) provide a means for the public to search the website for State highway safety program content required under subsection (k), including— (I) performance measures required by the Secretary; (II) progress made toward meeting the applicable performance targets during the preceding program year; (III) program areas and expenditures; and (IV) a description of any sources of funds, other than funds provided under this section, that the State proposes to use to carry out the triennial highway safety plan of the State. . (b) Effective date The amendments made by subsection (a) shall take effect with respect to any grant application or State highway safety plan submitted under chapter 4 4103. Highway safety research and development Section 403 of title 23, United States Code, is amended— (1) by striking accident crash (2) in subsection (b)(1), in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by inserting , training, education, demonstration projects (3) in subsection (f)(1)— (A) by striking $2,500,000 $3,500,000 (B) by striking subsection 402(c) in each fiscal year ending before October 1, 2015 section 402(c)(2) in each fiscal year ending before October 1, 2021 (C) by striking section 402(c) in the period beginning on October 1, 2015, and ending on December 4, 2015 section 402(c)(2) beginning on October 1, 2021, and ending on December 4, 2021 (4) in subsection (h)— (A) by redesignating paragraphs (1), (2), (3), (4), and (5) as paragraphs (2), (3), (4), (5), and (1), respectively, and moving the paragraphs so as to appear in numerical order; (B) in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (1) (as so redesignated), by striking section 30102(a)(6) section 30102(a) (C) in paragraph (3) (as so redesignated), by striking paragraph (1) paragraph (2) (5) by adding at the end the following: (k) Child safety campaign (1) In general The Secretary shall carry out an education campaign to reduce the incidence of vehicular heatstroke of children left in passenger motor vehicles (as defined in section 30102(a) of title 49). (2) Advertising The Secretary may use, or authorize the use of, funds made available to carry out this section to pay for the development, production, and use of broadcast and print media advertising and Internet-based outreach for the education campaign under paragraph (1). (3) Coordination In carrying out the education campaign under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall coordinate with— (A) interested State and local governments; (B) private industry; and (C) other parties, as determined by the Secretary. (l) Development of State processes for informing consumers of recalls (1) Definitions In this subsection: (A) Motor vehicle The term motor vehicle (B) Open recall The term open recall (i) for which a notification by a manufacturer has been provided under section 30119 of title 49; and (ii) that has not been remedied under section 30120 of that title. (C) Program The term program (D) Registration The term registration (E) State The term State (2) Grants (A) Establishment of program Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this subsection, the Secretary shall establish a program under which the Secretary shall provide grants to States for use in developing and implementing State processes for informing each applicable owner and lessee of a motor vehicle of any open recall on the motor vehicle at the time of registration of the motor vehicle in the State, in accordance with this paragraph. (B) Eligibility To be eligible to receive a grant under the program, a State shall— (i) submit to the Secretary an application at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary may require; and (ii) agree— (I) to notify each owner or lessee of a motor vehicle presented for registration in the State of any open recall on that motor vehicle; and (II) to provide to each owner or lessee of a motor vehicle presented for registration, at no cost— (aa) the open recall information for the motor vehicle; and (bb) such other information as the Secretary may require. (C) Factors for consideration In selecting grant recipients under the program, the Secretary shall take into consideration the methodology of a State for— (i) identifying open recalls on a motor vehicle; (ii) informing each owner and lessee of a motor vehicle of an open recall; and (iii) measuring performance in— (I) informing owners and lessees of open recalls; and (II) remedying open recalls. (D) Performance period A grant provided under the program shall require a performance period of 2 years. (E) Report Not later than 90 days after the date of completion of the performance period under subparagraph (D), each State that receives a grant under the program shall submit to the Secretary a report that contains such information as the Secretary considers to be necessary to evaluate the extent to which open recalls have been remedied in the State. (F) No regulations required Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Secretary shall not be required to issue any regulations to carry out the program. (3) Paperwork Reduction Act Chapter 35 Paperwork Reduction Act (4) Funding For each of fiscal years 2022 through 2026, the Secretary shall obligate from funds made available to carry out this section $1,500,000 to carry out the program. (m) Innovative highway safety countermeasures (1) In general In conducting research under this section, the Secretary shall evaluate the effectiveness of innovative behavioral traffic safety countermeasures, other than traffic enforcement, that are considered promising or likely to be effective for the purpose of enriching revisions to the document entitled Countermeasures That Work: A Highway Safety Countermeasure Guide for State Highway Safety Offices, Ninth Edition (2) Treatment The research described in paragraph (1) shall be in addition to any other research carried out under this section. . 4104. High-visibility enforcement programs Section 404(a) of title 23, United States Code, is amended by striking each of fiscal years 2016 through 2020 each fiscal year 4105. National priority safety programs (a) In general Section 405 of title 23, United States Code, is amended— (1) in subsection (a)— (A) by striking paragraphs (6) and (9); (B) by redesignating paragraphs (1) through (5) as paragraphs (2) through (6), respectively; (C) by striking the subsection designation and heading and all that follows through the following: (a) Program authority (1) In general Subject to the requirements of this section, the Secretary shall— (A) manage programs to address national priorities for reducing highway deaths and injuries; and (B) allocate funds for the purpose described in subparagraph (A) in accordance with this subsection. ; (D) in paragraph (4) (as so redesignated), by striking 52.5 percent 53 percent (E) in paragraph (7)— (i) by striking 5 percent 7 percent (ii) by striking subsection (h) subsection (g) (F) by redesignating paragraphs (8) and (10) as paragraphs (10) and (11), respectively; (G) by inserting after paragraph (7) the following: (8) Preventing roadside deaths In each fiscal year, 1 percent of the funds provided under this section shall be allocated among States that meet requirements with respect to preventing roadside deaths under subsection (h). (9) Driver officer safety education In each fiscal year, 1 percent of the funds provided under this section shall be allocated among States that meet requirements with respect to driver and officer safety education under subsection (i). ; and (H) in paragraph (10) (as so redesignated)— (i) by striking (1) through (7) (2) through (9) (ii) by striking (b) through (h) (b) through (i) (2) in subsection (b)— (A) in paragraph (1), by striking of Transportation (B) in paragraph (3)(B)(ii)(VI)(aa), by striking 3-year 5-year (C) in paragraph (4)— (i) in subparagraph (A), by striking clause (v) and inserting the following: (v) implement programs— (I) to recruit and train nationally certified child passenger safety technicians among police officers, fire and other first responders, emergency medical personnel, and other individuals or organizations serving low-income and underserved populations; (II) to educate parents and caregivers in low-income and underserved populations regarding the importance of proper use and correct installation of child restraints on every trip in a motor vehicle; and (III) to purchase and distribute child restraints to low-income and underserved populations; and ; and (ii) by striking subparagraph (B) and inserting the following: (B) Requirements Each State that is eligible to receive funds— (i) under paragraph (3)(A) shall use— (I) not more than 90 percent of those funds to carry out a project or activity eligible for funding under section 402; and (II) any remaining funds to carry out subparagraph (A)(v); and (ii) under paragraph (3)(B) shall use not less than 10 percent of those funds to carry out the activities described in subparagraph (A)(v). ; (3) in subsection (c)— (A) in paragraph (1)— (i) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking of Transportation (ii) in subparagraph (D), by striking States; and States, including the National EMS Information System; (B) in paragraph (3)— (i) by striking the paragraph designation and heading and all that follows through has a functioning (3) Eligibility A State shall not be eligible to receive a grant under this subsection for a fiscal year unless the State— (A) has certified to the Secretary that the State— (i) has a functioning ; (ii) in subparagraph (B)— (I) by adding and (II) by redesignating the subparagraph as clause (ii) of subparagraph (A) and indenting the clause appropriately; (iii) in subparagraph (C)— (I) by adding and (II) by redesignating the subparagraph as clause (iii) of subparagraph (A) and indenting the clause appropriately; (iv) by redesignating subparagraph (D) as subparagraph (B); (v) in clause (vi) of subparagraph (B) (as so redesignated), by striking ; and (vi) by striking subparagraph (E); (C) by striking paragraph (4) and inserting the following: (4) Use of grant amounts A State may use a grant received under this subsection to make data program improvements to core highway safety databases relating to quantifiable, measurable progress in any significant data program attribute described in paragraph (3)(B), including through— (A) software or applications to identify, collect, and report data to State and local government agencies, and enter data into State core highway safety databases, including crash, citation or adjudication, driver, emergency medical services or injury surveillance system, roadway, and vehicle data; (B) purchasing equipment to improve a process by which data are identified, collated, and reported to State and local government agencies, including technology for use by law enforcement for near-real time, electronic reporting of crash data; (C) improving the compatibility and interoperability of the core highway safety databases of the State with national data systems and data systems of other States, including the National EMS Information System; (D) enhancing the ability of a State and the Secretary to observe and analyze local, State, and national trends in crash occurrences, rates, outcomes, and circumstances; (E) supporting traffic records improvement training and expenditures for law enforcement, emergency medical, judicial, prosecutorial, and traffic records professionals; (F) hiring traffic records professionals for the purpose of improving traffic information systems (including a State Fatal Accident Reporting System (FARS) liaison); (G) adoption of the Model Minimum Uniform Crash Criteria, or providing to the public information regarding why any of those criteria will not be used, if applicable; (H) supporting reporting criteria relating to emerging topics, including— (i) impaired driving as a result of drug, alcohol, or polysubstance consumption; and (ii) advanced technologies present on motor vehicles; and (I) conducting research relating to State traffic safety information systems, including developing programs to improve core highway safety databases and processes by which data are identified, collected, reported to State and local government agencies, and entered into State core safety databases. ; and (D) by adding at the end the following: (6) Technical assistance (A) In general The Secretary shall provide technical assistance to States, regardless of whether a State receives a grant under this subsection, with respect to improving the timeliness, accuracy, completeness, uniformity, integration, and public accessibility of State safety data that are needed to identify priorities for Federal, State, and local highway and traffic safety programs, including on adoption by a State of the Model Minimum Uniform Crash Criteria. (B) Funds The Secretary may use not more than 3 percent of the amounts available under this subsection to carry out subparagraph (A). ; (4) in subsection (d)— (A) in paragraph (4)— (i) in subparagraph (B)— (I) by striking clause (iii) and inserting the following: (iii) court support of impaired driving prevention efforts, including— (I) hiring criminal justice professionals, including law enforcement officers, prosecutors, traffic safety resource prosecutors, judges, judicial outreach liaisons, and probation officers; (II) training and education of those professionals to assist the professionals in preventing impaired driving and handling impaired driving cases, including by providing compensation to a law enforcement officer to carry out safety grant activities to replace a law enforcement officer who is receiving drug recognition expert training or participating as an instructor in that drug recognition expert training; and (III) establishing driving while intoxicated courts; ; (II) by striking clause (v) and inserting the following: (v) improving blood alcohol and drug concentration screening and testing, detection of potentially impairing drugs (including through the use of oral fluid as a specimen), and reporting relating to testing and detection; ; (III) in clause (vi), by striking conducting standardized field sobriety training, advanced roadside impaired driving evaluation training, and conducting initial and continuing standardized field sobriety training, advanced roadside impaired driving evaluation training, law enforcement phlebotomy training, and (IV) in clause (ix), by striking and (V) in clause (x), by striking the period at the end and inserting ; and (VI) by adding at the end the following: (xi) testing and implementing programs, and purchasing technologies, to better identify, monitor, or treat impaired drivers, including— (I) oral fluid-screening technologies; (II) electronic warrant programs; (III) equipment to increase the scope, quantity, quality, and timeliness of forensic toxicology chemical testing; (IV) case management software to support the management of impaired driving offenders; and (V) technology to monitor impaired-driving offenders, and equipment and related expenditures used in connection with impaired-driving enforcement in accordance with criteria established by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. ; and (ii) in subparagraph (C)— (I) in the second sentence, by striking Medium-range (ii) Medium-range and high-range States Subject to clause (iii), medium-range ; (II) in the first sentence, by striking Low-range (i) Low-range States Subject to clause (iii), low-range ; and (III) by adding at the end the following: (iii) Reporting and impaired driving measures A State may use grant funds for any expenditure relating to— (I) increasing the timely and accurate reporting to Federal, State, and local databases of— (aa) crash information, including electronic crash reporting systems that allow accurate real- or near-real-time uploading of crash information; and (bb) impaired driving criminal justice information; or (II) researching or evaluating impaired driving countermeasures. ; (B) in paragraph (6)— (i) by striking subparagraph (A) and inserting the following: (A) Grants to States with alcohol-ignition interlock laws The Secretary shall make a separate grant under this subsection to each State that— (i) adopts, and is enforcing, a mandatory alcohol-ignition interlock law for all individuals convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol or of driving while intoxicated; (ii) does not allow an individual convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol or of driving while intoxicated to receive any driving privilege or driver’s license unless the individual installs on each motor vehicle registered, owned, or leased for operation by the individual an ignition interlock for a period of not less than 180 days; or (iii) has in effect, and is enforcing— (I) a State law requiring for any individual who is convicted of, or the driving privilege of whom is revoked or denied for, refusing to submit to a chemical or other appropriate test for the purpose of determining the presence or concentration of any intoxicating substance, a State law requiring a period of not less than 180 days of ignition interlock installation on each motor vehicle to be operated by the individual; and (II) a compliance-based removal program, under which an individual convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol or of driving while intoxicated shall— (aa) satisfy a period of not less than 180 days of ignition interlock installation on each motor vehicle to be operated by the individual; and (bb) have completed a minimum consecutive period of not less than 40 percent of the required period of ignition interlock installation immediately preceding the date of release of the individual, without a confirmed violation. ; and (ii) in subparagraph (D), by striking 2009 2022 (C) in paragraph (7)(A), in the matter preceding clause (i), by inserting or local authorizes a State (5) in subsection (e)— (A) by striking paragraphs (6) and (8); (B) by redesignating paragraphs (1), (2), (3), (4), (5), (7), and (9) as paragraphs (2), (4), (6), (7), (8), (9), and (1), respectively, and moving the paragraphs so as to appear in numerical order; (C) in paragraph (1) (as so redesignated)— (i) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking , the following definitions apply (ii) by striking subparagraph (B) and inserting the following: (B) Personal wireless communications device (i) In general The term personal wireless communications device (I) a device through which personal wireless services (as defined in section 332(c)(7)(C) of the Communications Act of 1934 ( 47 U.S.C. 332(c)(7)(C) (II) a mobile telephone or other portable electronic communication device with which a user engages in a call or writes, sends, or reads a text message using at least 1 hand. (ii) Exclusion The term personal wireless communications device ; and (iii) by striking subparagraph (E) and inserting the following: (E) Text The term text (i) to read from, or manually to enter data into, a personal wireless communications device, including for the purpose of SMS texting, emailing, instant messaging, or any other form of electronic data retrieval or electronic data communication; and (ii) manually to enter, send, or retrieve a text message to communicate with another individual or device. (F) Text message (i) In general The term text message (I) a text-based message; (II) an instant message; (III) an electronic message; and (IV) email. (ii) Exclusions The term text message (I) an emergency, traffic, or weather alert; or (II) a message relating to the operation or navigation of a motor vehicle. ; (D) by striking paragraph (2) (as so redesignated) and inserting the following: (2) Grant program The Secretary shall provide a grant under this subsection to any State that includes distracted driving awareness as part of the driver’s license examination of the State. (3) Allocation (A) In general For each fiscal year, not less than 50 percent of the amounts made available to carry out this subsection shall be allocated to States, based on the proportion that— (i) the apportionment of the State under section 402 for fiscal year 2009; bears to (ii) the apportionment of all States under section 402 for that fiscal year. (B) Grants for States with distracted driving laws (i) In general In addition to the allocations under subparagraph (A), for each fiscal year, not more than 50 percent of the amounts made available to carry out this subsection shall be allocated to States that enact and enforce a law that meets the requirements of paragraph (4), (5), or (6)— (I) based on the proportion that— (aa) the apportionment of the State under section 402 for fiscal year 2009; bears to (bb) the apportionment of all States under section 402 for that fiscal year; and (II) subject to clauses (ii), (iii), and (iv), as applicable. (ii) Primary laws Subject to clause (iv), in the case of a State that enacts and enforces a law that meets the requirements of paragraph (4), (5), or (6) as a primary offense, the allocation to the State under this subparagraph shall be 100 percent of the amount calculated to be allocated to the State under clause (i)(I). (iii) Secondary laws Subject to clause (iv), in the case of a State that enacts and enforces a law that meets the requirements of paragraph (4), (5), or (6) as a secondary enforcement action, the allocation to the State under this subparagraph shall be an amount equal to 50 percent of the amount calculated to be allocated to the State under clause (i)(I). (iv) Texting while driving Notwithstanding clauses (ii) and (iii), the allocation under this subparagraph to a State that enacts and enforces a law that prohibits a driver from viewing a personal wireless communications device (except for purposes of navigation) shall be 25 percent of the amount calculated to be allocated to the State under clause (i)(I). ; (E) in paragraph (4) (as so redesignated)— (i) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking set forth in this of this (ii) by striking subparagraph (B); (iii) by redesignating subparagraphs (C) and (D) as subparagraphs (B) and (C), respectively; (iv) in subparagraph (B) (as so redesignated), by striking minimum (v) in subparagraph (C) (as so redesignated), by striking text through a personal wireless communication device use a personal wireless communications device for texting (F) by inserting after paragraph (4) (as so redesignated) the following: (5) Prohibition on handheld phone use while driving A State law meets the requirements of this paragraph if the law— (A) prohibits a driver from holding a personal wireless communications device while driving; (B) establishes a fine for a violation of that law; and (C) does not provide for an exemption that specifically allows a driver to use a personal wireless communications device for texting while stopped in traffic. ; (G) in paragraph (6) (as so redesignated)— (i) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking set forth in this of this (ii) in subparagraph (A)(ii), by striking set forth in subsection (g)(2)(B) (iii) by striking subparagraphs (B) and (D); (iv) by redesignating subparagraph (C) as subparagraph (B); (v) in subparagraph (B) (as so redesignated), by striking minimum (vi) by adding at the end the following: (C) does not provide for— (i) an exemption that specifically allows a driver to use a personal wireless communications device for texting while stopped in traffic; or (ii) an exemption described in paragraph (7)(E). ; and (H) in paragraph (7) (as so redesignated)— (i) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking set forth in paragraph (2) or (3) of paragraph (4), (5), or (6) (ii) by striking subparagraph (A) and inserting the following: (A) a driver who uses a personal wireless communications device during an emergency to contact emergency services to prevent injury to persons or property; ; (iii) in subparagraph (C), by striking and (iv) by redesignating subparagraph (D) as subparagraph (F); and (v) by inserting after subparagraph (C) the following: (D) a driver who uses a personal wireless communications device for navigation; (E) except for a law described in paragraph (6), the use of a personal wireless communications device— (i) in a hands-free manner; (ii) with a hands-free accessory; or (iii) with the activation or deactivation of a feature or function of the personal wireless communications device with the motion of a single swipe or tap of the finger of the driver; and ; (6) in subsection (f)(3)— (A) in subparagraph (A)(i), by striking accident crash (B) by redesignating subparagraphs (C) through (F) as subparagraphs (D) through (G), respectively; (C) by inserting after subparagraph (B) the following: (C) Helmet law A State law requiring the use of a helmet for each motorcycle rider under the age of 18. ; and (D) in subparagraph (F) (as so redesignated), in the subparagraph heading, by striking accidents crashes (7) by striking subsection (g); (8) by redesignating subsection (h) as subsection (g); (9) in subsection (g) (as so redesignated)— (A) by redesignating paragraphs (1) through (5) as paragraphs (2) through (6), respectively; (B) by inserting before paragraph (2) (as so redesignated) the following: (1) Definition of nonmotorized road user In this subsection, the term nonmotorized road user (A) a pedestrian; (B) an individual using a nonmotorized mode of transportation, including a bicycle, a scooter, or a personal conveyance; and (C) an individual using a low-speed or low-horsepower motorized vehicle, including an electric bicycle, electric scooter, personal mobility assistance device, personal transporter, or all-terrain vehicle. ; (C) in paragraph (2) (as so redesignated), by striking pedestrian and bicycle fatalities and injuries that result from crashes involving a motor vehicle nonmotorized road user fatalities involving a motor vehicle in transit on a trafficway (D) in paragraph (4) (as so redesignated), by striking pedestrian and bicycle nonmotorized road user (E) by striking paragraph (5) (as so redesignated) and inserting the following: (5) Use of grant amounts Grant funds received by a State under this subsection may be used for the safety of nonmotorized road users, including— (A) training of law enforcement officials relating to nonmotorized road user safety, State laws applicable to nonmotorized road user safety, and infrastructure designed to improve nonmotorized road user safety; (B) carrying out a program to support enforcement mobilizations and campaigns designed to enforce State traffic laws applicable to nonmotorized road user safety; (C) public education and awareness programs designed to inform motorists and nonmotorized road users regarding— (i) nonmotorized road user safety, including information relating to nonmotorized mobility and the importance of speed management to the safety of nonmotorized road users; (ii) the value of the use of nonmotorized road user safety equipment, including lighting, conspicuity equipment, mirrors, helmets, and other protective equipment, and compliance with any State or local laws requiring the use of that equipment; (iii) State traffic laws applicable to nonmotorized road user safety, including the responsibilities of motorists with respect to nonmotorized road users; and (iv) infrastructure designed to improve nonmotorized road user safety; and (D) the collection of data, and the establishment and maintenance of data systems, relating to nonmotorized road user traffic fatalities. ; and (10) by adding at the end the following: (h) Preventing roadside deaths (1) In general The Secretary shall provide grants to States to prevent death and injury from crashes involving motor vehicles striking other vehicles and individuals stopped at the roadside. (2) Federal share The Federal share of the cost of carrying out an activity funded through a grant under this subsection may not exceed 80 percent. (3) Eligibility A State shall receive a grant under this subsection in a fiscal year if the State submits to the Secretary a plan that describes the method by which the State will use grant funds in accordance with paragraph (4). (4) Use of funds Amounts received by a State under this subsection shall be used by the State— (A) to purchase and deploy digital alert technology that— (i) is capable of receiving alerts regarding nearby first responders; and (ii) in the case of a motor vehicle that is used for emergency response activities, is capable of sending alerts to civilian drivers to protect first responders on the scene and en route; (B) to educate the public regarding the safety of vehicles and individuals stopped at the roadside in the State through public information campaigns for the purpose of reducing roadside deaths and injury; (C) for law enforcement costs relating to enforcing State laws to protect the safety of vehicles and individuals stopped at the roadside; and (D) for programs to identify, collect, and report to State and local government agencies data relating to crashes involving vehicles and individuals stopped at the roadside. (5) Grant amount The allocation of grant funds to a State under this subsection for a fiscal year shall be in proportion to the apportionment of that State under section 402 for fiscal year 2022. (i) Driver and officer safety education (1) Definition of peace officer In this subsection, the term peace officer (A) who is an elected, appointed, or employed agent of a government entity; (B) who has the authority— (i) to carry firearms; and (ii) to make warrantless arrests; and (C) whose duties involve the enforcement of criminal laws of the United States. (2) Grants Subject to the requirements of this subsection, the Secretary shall provide grants to— (A) States that enact or adopt a law or program described in paragraph (4); and (B) qualifying States under paragraph (7). (3) Federal share The Federal share of the cost of carrying out an activity funded through a grant under this subsection may not exceed 80 percent. (4) Description of law or program A law or program referred to in paragraph (2)(A) is a law or program that requires 1 or more of the following: (A) Driver education and driving safety courses The inclusion, in driver education and driver safety courses provided to individuals by educational and motor vehicle agencies of the State, of instruction and testing relating to law enforcement practices during traffic stops, including information relating to— (i) the role of law enforcement and the duties and responsibilities of peace officers; (ii) the legal rights of individuals concerning interactions with peace officers; (iii) best practices for civilians and peace officers during those interactions; (iv) the consequences for failure of an individual or officer to comply with the law or program; and (v) how and where to file a complaint against, or a compliment relating to, a peace officer. (B) Peace officer training programs Development and implementation of a training program, including instruction and testing materials, for peace officers and reserve law enforcement officers (other than officers who have received training in a civilian course described in subparagraph (A)) with respect to proper interaction with civilians during traffic stops. (5) Use of funds A State may use a grant provided under this subsection for— (A) the production of educational materials and training of staff for driver education and driving safety courses and peace officer training described in paragraph (4); and (B) the implementation of a law or program described in paragraph (4). (6) Grant amount The allocation of grant funds to a State under this subsection for a fiscal year shall be in proportion to the apportionment of that State under section 402 for fiscal year 2022. (7) Special rule for certain States (A) Definition of qualifying State In this paragraph, the term qualifying State (i) has received a grant under this subsection for a period of not more than 5 years; and (ii) as determined by the Secretary— (I) has not fully enacted or adopted a law or program described in paragraph (4); but (II) (aa) has taken meaningful steps toward the full implementation of such a law or program; and (bb) has established a timetable for the implementation of such a law or program. (B) Withholding The Secretary shall— (i) withhold 50 percent of the amount that each qualifying State would otherwise receive under this subsection if the qualifying State were a State described in paragraph (2)(A); and (ii) direct any amounts withheld under clause (i) for distribution among the States that are enforcing and carrying out a law or program described in paragraph (4). . (b) Technical amendment Section 4010(2) of the FAST Act ( 23 U.S.C. 405 Public Law 114–94 all deficiencies 4106. Multiple substance-impaired driving prevention (a) Impaired driving countermeasures Section 154(c)(1) of title 23, United States Code, is amended by striking alcohol-impaired impaired (b) Comptroller General study of national DUI reporting (1) In general The Comptroller General of the United States shall conduct a study of the reporting of impaired driving arrest and citation data into Federal databases and the interstate sharing of information relating to impaired driving-related convictions and license suspensions to facilitate the widespread identification of repeat impaired driving offenders. (2) Inclusions The study conducted under paragraph (1) shall include a detailed assessment of— (A) the extent to which State and local criminal justice agencies are reporting impaired driving arrest and citation data to Federal databases; (B) barriers— (i) at the Federal, State, and local levels, to the reporting of impaired driving arrest and citation data to Federal databases; and (ii) to the use of those databases by criminal justice agencies; (C) Federal, State, and local resources available to improve the reporting and sharing of impaired driving data; and (D) any options or recommendations for actions that Federal agencies or Congress could take to further improve the reporting and sharing of impaired driving data. (3) Report Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a report describing the results of the study conducted under this subsection. 4107. Minimum penalties for repeat offenders for driving while intoxicated or driving under the influence Section 164(b)(1) of title 23, United States Code, is amended— (1) in subparagraph (A), by striking alcohol-impaired alcohol- or multiple substance-impaired (2) in subparagraph (B)— (A) by striking intoxicated or driving intoxicated, driving while multiple substance-impaired, or driving (B) by striking alcohol-impaired alcohol- or multiple substance-impaired 4108. Crash data (a) In general Not later than 3 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall revise the crash data collection system to include the collection of crash report data elements that distinguish individual personal conveyance vehicles, such as electric scooters and bicycles, from other vehicles involved in a crash. (b) Coordination In carrying out subsection (a), the Secretary may coordinate with States to update the Model Minimum Uniform Crash Criteria to provide guidance to States regarding the collection of information and data elements for the crash data collection system. (c) Vulnerable road users (1) Update Based on the information contained in the vulnerable road user safety assessments required by subsection (f) of section 32302 of title 49, United States Code (as added by section 4213(b)(2)), the Secretary shall modify existing crash data collection systems to include the collection of additional crash report data elements relating to vulnerable road user safety. (2) Injury health data The Secretary shall coordinate with the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to develop and implement a plan for States to combine highway crash data and injury health data to produce a national database of pedestrian injuries and fatalities, disaggregated by demographic characteristics. (d) State electronic data collection (1) Definitions In this subsection: (A) Electronic data transfer The term electronic data transfer (B) State The term State (i) each of the 50 States; (ii) the District of Columbia; (iii) the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico; (iv) the United States Virgin Islands; (v) Guam; (vi) American Samoa; (vii) the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands; and (viii) the Secretary of the Interior, acting on behalf of an Indian Tribe. (2) Establishment of program The Secretary shall establish a program under which the Secretary shall— (A) provide grants for the modernization of State data collection systems to enable full electronic data transfer under paragraph (3); and (B) upgrade the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration system to manage and support State electronic data transfers relating to crashes under paragraph (4). (3) State grants (A) In general The Secretary shall provide grants to States to upgrade and standardize State crash data systems to enable electronic data collection, intrastate data sharing, and electronic data transfers to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to increase the accuracy, timeliness, and accessibility of the data, including data relating to fatalities involving vulnerable road users. (B) Eligibility A State shall be eligible to receive a grant under this paragraph if the State submits to the Secretary an application, at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary may require, that includes a plan to implement full electronic data transfer to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration by not later than 5 years after the date on which the grant is provided. (C) Use of funds A grant provided under this paragraph may be used for the costs of— (i) equipment to upgrade a statewide crash data repository; (ii) adoption of electronic crash reporting by law enforcement agencies; and (iii) increasing alignment of State crash data with the latest Model Minimum Uniform Crash Criteria. (D) Federal share The Federal share of the cost of a project funded with a grant under this paragraph may be up to 80 percent. (4) National Highway Traffic Safety Administration system upgrade The Secretary shall manage and support State electronic data transfers relating to vehicle crashes by— (A) increasing the capacity of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration system; and (B) making State crash data accessible to the public. (e) Crash Investigation Sampling System The Secretary may use funds made available to carry out this section to enhance the collection of crash data by upgrading the Crash Investigation Sampling System to include— (1) additional program sites; (2) an expanded scope that includes all crash types; and (3) on-scene investigation protocols. (f) Authorization of appropriations There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this section $150,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2022 through 2026, to remain available for a period of 3 fiscal years following the fiscal year for which the amounts are appropriated. 4109. Review of Move Over or Slow Down Law public awareness (a) Definition of Move Over or Slow Down Law In this section, the term Move Over or Slow Down Law (b) Study (1) In general The Comptroller General of the United States shall carry out a study of the efficacy of Move Over or Slow Down Laws and related public awareness campaigns. (2) Inclusions The study under paragraph (1) shall include— (A) a review of each Federal and State Move Over or Slow Down Law, including— (i) penalties associated with the Move Over or Slow Down Laws; and (ii) the level of enforcement of Move Over or Slow Down Laws; (B) an identification and description of each Federal and State public awareness campaign relating to Move Over or Slow Down Laws; and (C) a description of the role of the Department in supporting State efforts with respect to Move Over or Slow Down Laws, such as conducting research, collecting data, or supporting public awareness or education efforts. (c) Report On completion of the study under subsection (b), the Comptroller General shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives a report that describes— (1) the findings of the study; and (2) any recommendations to improve public awareness campaigns, research, or education efforts relating to the issues described in subsection (b)(2). 4110. Review of laws, safety measures, and technologies relating to school buses (a) Review of illegal passing laws (1) In general Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall prepare a report that— (A) identifies and describes all illegal passing laws in each State relating to school buses, including— (i) the level of enforcement of those laws; (ii) the penalties associated with those laws; (iii) any issues relating to the enforcement of those laws; and (iv) the effectiveness of those laws; (B) reviews existing State laws that may inhibit the effectiveness of safety countermeasures in school bus loading zones, such as— (i) laws that require the face of a driver to be visible in an image captured by a camera if enforcement action is to be taken based on that image; (ii) laws that may reduce stop-arm camera effectiveness; (iii) the need for a law enforcement officer to witness an event for enforcement action to be taken; and (iv) the lack of primary enforcement for texting and driving offenses; (C) identifies the methods used by each State to review, document, and report to law enforcement school bus stop-arm violations; and (D) identifies best practices relating to the most effective approaches to address the illegal passing of school buses. (2) Publication The report under paragraph (1) shall be made publicly available on the website of the Department. (b) Public safety messaging campaign (1) In general Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall establish and implement a public safety messaging campaign that uses public safety media messages, posters, digital media messages, and other media messages distributed to States, State departments of motor vehicles, schools, and other public outlets— (A) to highlight the importance of addressing the illegal passing of school buses; and (B) to educate students and the public regarding the safe loading and unloading of schools buses. (2) Consultation In carrying out paragraph (1), the Secretary shall consult with— (A) representatives of the school bus industry from the public and private sectors; and (B) States. (3) Updates The Secretary shall periodically update the materials used in the campaign under paragraph (1). (c) Review of technologies (1) In general Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall review and evaluate the effectiveness of various technologies for enhancing school bus safety, including technologies such as— (A) cameras; (B) audible warning systems; and (C) enhanced lighting. (2) Inclusions The review under paragraph (1)— (A) shall include— (i) an assessment of— (I) the costs of acquiring and operating new equipment; (II) the potential impact of that equipment on overall school bus ridership; and (III) motion-activated detection systems capable of— (aa) detecting pedestrians, cyclists, and other road users located near the exterior of the school bus; and (bb) alerting the operator of the school bus of those road users; (ii) an assessment of the impact of advanced technologies designed to improve loading zone safety; and (iii) an assessment of the effectiveness of school bus lighting systems at clearly communicating to surrounding drivers the appropriate actions those drivers should take; and (B) may include— (i) an evaluation of any technological solutions that may enhance school bus safety outside the school bus loading zone; and (ii) a pilot program to test any technologies in school bus service. (3) Consultation In carrying out the review under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall consult with— (A) manufacturers of school buses; (B) manufacturers of various technologies that may enhance school bus safety; and (C) representatives of the school bus industry from the public and private sectors. (4) Publication The Secretary shall make the findings of the review under paragraph (1) publicly available on the website of the Department. (d) Review of driver education materials (1) In general Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall— (A) review driver manuals, handbooks, and other materials in all States to determine whether and the means by which illegal passing of school buses is addressed in those driver materials, including in— (i) testing for noncommercial driver’s licenses; and (ii) road tests; and (B) make recommendations on methods by which States can improve education regarding the illegal passing of school buses, particularly for new drivers. (2) Consultation In carrying out paragraph (1), the Secretary shall consult with— (A) representatives of the school bus industry from the public and private sectors; (B) States; (C) State motor vehicle administrators or senior State executives responsible for driver licensing; and (D) other appropriate motor vehicle experts. (3) Publication The Secretary shall make the findings of the review under paragraph (1) publicly available on the website of the Department. (e) Review of other safety issues (1) In general Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall research and prepare a report describing any relationship between the illegal passing of school buses and other safety issues, including issues such as— (A) distracted driving; (B) poor visibility, such as morning darkness; (C) illumination and reach of vehicle headlights; (D) speed limits; and (E) characteristics associated with school bus stops, including the characteristics of school bus stops in rural areas. (2) Publication The Secretary shall make the report under paragraph (1) publicly available on the website of the Department. 4111. Motorcyclist Advisory Council (a) In general Subchapter III of chapter 3 355. Motorcyclist Advisory Council (a) Establishment Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this section, the Secretary of Transportation (referred to in this section as the Secretary Motorcyclist Advisory Council Council (b) Membership (1) In general The Council shall be comprised of 12 members, to be appointed by the Secretary, of whom— (A) 5 shall be representatives of units of State or local government with expertise relating to highway engineering and safety issues, including— (i) motorcycle and motorcyclist safety; (ii) barrier and road design, construction, and maintenance; or (iii) intelligent transportation systems; (B) 1 shall be a motorcyclist who serves as a State or local— (i) traffic and safety engineer; (ii) design engineer; or (iii) other transportation department official; (C) 1 shall be a representative of a national association of State transportation officials; (D) 1 shall be a representative of a national motorcyclist association; (E) 1 shall be a representative of a national motorcyclist foundation; (F) 1 shall be a representative of a national motorcycle manufacturing association; (G) 1 shall be a roadway safety data expert with expertise relating to crash testing and analysis; and (H) 1 shall be a member of a national safety organization that represents the traffic safety systems industry. (2) Term (A) In general Subject to subparagraphs (B) and (C), each member shall serve on the Council for a single term of 2 years. (B) Additional term If a successor is not appointed for a member of the Council before the expiration of the term of service of the member, the member may serve on the Council for a second term of not longer than 2 years. (C) Appointment of replacements If a member of the Council resigns before the expiration of the 2-year term of service of the member— (i) the Secretary may appoint a replacement for the member, who shall serve the remaining portion of the term; and (ii) the resigning member may continue to serve after resignation until the date on which a successor is appointed. (3) Vacancies A vacancy on the Council shall be filled in the manner in which the original appointment was made. (4) Compensation A member of the Council shall serve without compensation. (c) Duties (1) Advising The Council shall advise the Secretary, the Administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and the Administrator of the Federal Highway Administration regarding transportation safety issues of concern to motorcyclists, including— (A) motorcycle and motorcyclist safety; (B) barrier and road design, construction, and maintenance practices; and (C) the architecture and implementation of intelligent transportation system technologies. (2) Biennial report Not later than October 31 of the calendar year following the calendar year in which the Council is established, and not less frequently than once every 2 years thereafter, the Council shall submit to the Secretary a report containing recommendations of the Council regarding the issues described in paragraph (1). (d) Duties of Secretary (1) Council recommendations (A) In general The Secretary shall determine whether to accept or reject a recommendation contained in a report of the Council under subsection (c)(2). (B) Inclusion in review (i) In general The Secretary shall indicate in each review under paragraph (2) whether the Secretary accepts or rejects each recommendation of the Council covered by the review. (ii) Exception The Secretary may indicate in a review under paragraph (2) that a recommendation of the Council is under consideration, subject to the condition that a recommendation so under consideration shall be accepted or rejected by the Secretary in the subsequent review of the Secretary under paragraph (2). (2) Review (A) In general Not later than 60 days after the date on which the Secretary receives a report from the Council under subsection (c)(2), the Secretary shall submit a review describing the response of the Secretary to the recommendations of the Council contained in the Council report to— (i) the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate; (ii) the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate; (iii) the Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies of the Committee on Appropriations of the Senate; (iv) the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives; and (v) the Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies of the Committee on Appropriations of the House of Representatives. (B) Contents A review of the Secretary under this paragraph shall include a description of— (i) each recommendation contained in the Council report covered by the review; and (ii) (I) each recommendation of the Council that was categorized under paragraph (1)(B)(ii) as being under consideration by the Secretary in the preceding review submitted under this paragraph; and (II) for each such recommendation, whether the recommendation— (aa) is accepted or rejected by the Secretary; or (bb) remains under consideration by the Secretary. (3) Administrative and technical support The Secretary shall provide to the Council such administrative support, staff, and technical assistance as the Secretary determines to be necessary to carry out the duties of the Council under this section. (e) Termination The Council shall terminate on the date that is 6 years after the date on which the Council is established under subsection (a). . (b) Clerical amendment The analysis for subchapter III of chapter 3 section 354 355. Motorcyclist Advisory Council. . (c) Conforming amendments (1) Section 1426 of the FAST Act ( 23 U.S.C. 101 Public Law 114–94 (2) The table of contents for the FAST Act ( Public Law 114–94 4112. Safe Streets and Roads for All grant program (a) Definitions In this section: (1) Comprehensive safety action plan The term comprehensive safety action plan Vision Zero Toward Zero Deaths (A) a goal and timeline for eliminating fatalities and serious injuries; (B) an analysis of the location and severity of vehicle-involved crashes in a locality; (C) an analysis of community input, gathered through public outreach and education; (D) a data-driven approach to identify projects or strategies to prevent fatalities and serious injuries in a locality, such as those involving— (i) education and community outreach; (ii) effective methods to enforce traffic laws and regulations; (iii) new vehicle or other transportation-related technologies; and (iv) roadway planning and design; and (E) mechanisms for evaluating the outcomes and effectiveness of the comprehensive safety action plan, including the means by which that effectiveness will be reported to residents in a locality. (2) Eligible entity The term eligible entity (A) a metropolitan planning organization; (B) a political subdivision of a State; (C) a federally recognized Tribal government; and (D) a multijurisdictional group of entities described in any of subparagraphs (A) through (C). (3) Eligible project The term eligible project (A) to develop a comprehensive safety action plan; (B) to conduct planning, design, and development activities for projects and strategies identified in a comprehensive safety action plan; or (C) to carry out projects and strategies identified in a comprehensive safety action plan. (4) Program The term program (b) Establishment The Secretary shall establish and carry out a program, to be known as the Safe Streets and Roads for All program, that supports local initiatives to prevent death and serious injury on roads and streets, commonly referred to as Vision Zero Toward Zero Deaths (c) Grants (1) In general In carrying out the program, the Secretary may make grants to eligible entities, on a competitive basis, in accordance with this section. (2) Limitations (A) In general Not more than 15 percent of the funds made available to carry out the program for a fiscal year may be awarded to eligible projects in a single State during that fiscal year. (B) Planning grants Of the total amount made available to carry out the program for each fiscal year, not less than 40 percent shall be awarded to eligible projects described in subsection (a)(3)(A). (d) Selection of eligible projects (1) Solicitation Not later than 180 days after the date on which amounts are made available to provide grants under the program for a fiscal year, the Secretary shall solicit from eligible entities grant applications for eligible projects in accordance with this section. (2) Applications (A) In general To be eligible to receive a grant under the program, an eligible entity shall submit to the Secretary an application in such form and containing such information as the Secretary considers to be appropriate. (B) Requirement An application for a grant under this paragraph shall include mechanisms for evaluating the success of applicable eligible projects and strategies. (3) Considerations In awarding a grant under the program, the Secretary shall take into consideration the extent to which an eligible entity, and each eligible project proposed to be carried out by the eligible entity, as applicable— (A) is likely to significantly reduce or eliminate transportation-related fatalities and serious injuries involving various road users, including pedestrians, bicyclists, public transportation users, motorists, and commercial operators, within the timeframe proposed by the eligible entity; (B) demonstrates engagement with a variety of public and private stakeholders; (C) seeks to adopt innovative technologies or strategies to promote safety; (D) employs low-cost, high-impact strategies that can improve safety over a wider geographical area; (E) ensures, or will ensure, equitable investment in the safety needs of underserved communities in preventing transportation-related fatalities and injuries; (F) includes evidence-based projects or strategies; and (G) achieves such other conditions as the Secretary considers to be necessary. (4) Transparency (A) In general The Secretary shall evaluate, through a methodology that is discernible and transparent to the public, the means by, and extent to, which each application under the program addresses any applicable merit criteria established by the Secretary. (B) Publication The methodology under subparagraph (A) shall be published by the Secretary as part of the notice of funding opportunity under the program. (e) Federal share The Federal share of the cost of an eligible project carried out using a grant provided under the program shall not exceed 80 percent. (f) Funding (1) Authorization of appropriations There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $200,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2022 through 2026, to remain available for a period of 3 fiscal years following the fiscal year for which the amounts are appropriated. (2) Administrative expenses Of the amounts made available to carry out the program for a fiscal year, the Secretary may retain not more than 2 percent for the administrative expenses of the program. (3) Availability to eligible entities Amounts made available under a grant under the program shall remain available for use by the applicable eligible entity until the date that is 5 years after the date on which the grant is provided. (g) Data submission (1) In general As a condition of receiving a grant under this program, an eligible entity shall submit to the Secretary, on a regular basis as established by the Secretary, data, information, or analyses collected or conducted in accordance with subsection (d)(3). (2) Form The data, information, and analyses under paragraph (1) shall be submitted in such form such manner as may be prescribed by the Secretary. (h) Reports Not later than 4 years after the date on which an eligible entity receives a grant under the program, the eligible entity shall submit to the Secretary a report that describes— (1) the costs of each eligible project carried out using the grant; (2) the outcomes and benefits that each such eligible project has generated, as— (A) identified in the grant application of the eligible entity; and (B) measured by data, to the maximum extent practicable; and (3) the lessons learned and any recommendations relating to future projects or strategies to prevent death and serious injury on roads and streets. (i) Best practices Based on the information submitted by eligible entities under subsection (g), the Secretary shall— (1) periodically post on a publicly available website best practices and lessons learned for preventing transportation-related fatalities and serious injuries pursuant to strategies or interventions implemented under the program; and (2) evaluate and incorporate, as appropriate, the effectiveness of strategies and interventions implemented under the program for the purpose of enriching revisions to the document entitled Countermeasures That Work: A Highway Safety Countermeasure Guide for State Highway Safety Offices, Ninth Edition 4113. Implementation of GAO recommendations (a) Next Generation 911 (1) In general Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall implement the recommendations of the Comptroller General of the United States contained in the report entitled Next Generation 911: National 911 Program Could Strengthen Efforts to Assist States National NG911 Roadmap initiative (2) Implementation plan The Administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shall develop an implementation plan to support the completion of national-level tasks under the National NG911 Roadmap initiative. (b) Pedestrian and cyclists information and enhanced performance management (1) In general Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall implement the recommendations of the Comptroller General of the United States contained in the report entitled Pedestrians and Cyclists: Better Information to States and Enhanced Performance Management Could Help DOT Improve Safety (A) carrying out measures to collect information relating to the range of countermeasures implemented by States; (B) analyzing that information to help advance knowledge regarding the effectiveness of those countermeasures; and (C) sharing with States any results. (2) Performance management practices The Administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shall use performance management practices to guide pedestrian and cyclist safety activities by— (A) developing performance measures for the Administration and program offices responsible for implementing pedestrian and cyclist safety activities to demonstrate the means by which those activities contribute to safety goals; and (B) using performance information to make any necessary changes to advance pedestrian and cyclist safety efforts. B Vehicle safety 4201. Authorization of appropriations There are authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary to carry out chapter 301, and part C of subtitle VI, of title 49, United States Code— (1) $200,294,333 for fiscal year 2022; (2) $204,300,219 for fiscal year 2023; (3) $208,386,224 for fiscal year 2024; (4) $212,553,948 for fiscal year 2025; and (5) $216,805,027 for fiscal year 2026. 4202. Recall completion (a) Reports on recall campaigns Section 30118 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following: (f) Reports on notification campaigns (1) In general Each manufacturer that is conducting a campaign under subsection (b) or (c) or any other provision of law (including regulations) to notify manufacturers, distributors, owners, purchasers, or dealers of a defect or noncompliance shall submit to the Administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration— (A) by the applicable date described in section 573.7(d) of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations (or a successor regulation), a quarterly report describing the campaign for each of 8 consecutive quarters, beginning with the quarter in which the campaign was initiated; and (B) an annual report for each of the 3 years beginning after the date of completion of the last quarter for which a quarterly report is submitted under subparagraph (A). (2) Requirements Except as otherwise provided in this subsection, each report under this subsection shall comply with the requirements of section 573.7 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations (or a successor regulation). . (b) Recall completion rates Section 30120 of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following: (k) Recall completion rates (1) In general The Administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shall publish an annual list of recall completion rates for each recall campaign for which 8 quarterly reports have been submitted under subsection (f) of section 30118 as of the date of publication of the list. (2) Requirements The annual list under paragraph (1) shall include— (A) for each applicable campaign— (i) the total number of vehicles subject to recall; and (ii) the percentage of vehicles that have been remedied; and (B) for each manufacturer submitting an applicable quarterly report under section 30118(f)— (i) the total number of recalls issued by the manufacturer during the year covered by the list; (ii) the estimated number of vehicles of the manufacturer subject to recall during the year covered by the list; and (iii) the percentage of vehicles that have been remedied. . 4203. Recall engagement (a) Recall repair Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States shall— (1) conduct a study to determine— (A) the reasons why vehicle owners do not have repairs performed for vehicles subject to open recalls; and (B) whether engagement by third parties, including State and local governments, insurance companies, or other entities, could increase the rate at which vehicle owners have repairs performed for vehicles subject to open recalls; and (2) submit to Congress a report describing the results of the study under paragraph (1), including any recommendations for increasing the rate of repair for vehicles subject to open recalls. (b) Ridesharing Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General shall— (1) conduct a study to determine the number of passenger motor vehicles in each State that— (A) are used by transportation network companies for for-hire purposes, such as ridesharing; and (B) have 1 or more open recalls; and (2) submit to Congress a report describing the results of the study under paragraph (1). (c) NHTSA study and report Not later than 3 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shall— (1) conduct a study to determine the ways in which vehicle recall notices could— (A) more effectively reach vehicle owners; (B) be made easier for all consumers to understand; and (C) incentivize vehicle owners to complete the repairs described in the recall notices; and (2) submit to Congress a report describing the results of the study under paragraph (1), including any recommendations for— (A) increasing the rate of repair for vehicles subject to open recalls; or (B) any regulatory or statutory legislative changes that would facilitate an increased rate of repair. 4204. Motor vehicle seat back safety standards (a) In general Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, subject to subsection (b), the Secretary shall issue an advanced notice of proposed rulemaking to update section 571.207 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations. (b) Compliance date If the Secretary determines that a final rule is appropriate consistent with the considerations described in section 30111(b) of title 49, United States Code, in issuing a final rule pursuant to subsection (a), the Secretary shall establish a date for required compliance with the final rule of not later than 2 motor vehicle model years after the model year during which the effective date of the final rule occurs. 4205. Automatic shutoff (a) Definitions In this section: (1) Key The term key (2) Manufacturer The term manufacturer (3) Motor vehicle (A) In general The term motor vehicle (B) Exclusions The term motor vehicle (i) a motorcycle or trailer (as those terms are defined in section 571.3 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations (or a successor regulation)); (ii) any motor vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of more than 10,000 pounds; (iii) a battery electric vehicle; or (iv) a motor vehicle that requires extended periods with the engine in idle to operate in service mode or to operate equipment, such as an emergency vehicle (including a police vehicle, an ambulance, or a tow vehicle) and a commercial-use vehicle (including a refrigeration vehicle). (b) Automatic shutoff systems for motor vehicles (1) Final rule (A) In general Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall issue a final rule amending section 571.114 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, to require manufacturers to install in each motor vehicle that is equipped with a keyless ignition device and an internal combustion engine a device or system to automatically shutoff the motor vehicle after the motor vehicle has idled for the period described in subparagraph (B). (B) Description of period (i) In general The period referred to in subparagraph (A) is the period designated by the Secretary as necessary to prevent, to the maximum extent practicable, carbon monoxide poisoning. (ii) Different periods The Secretary may designate different periods under clause (i) for different types of motor vehicles, depending on the rate at which the motor vehicle emits carbon monoxide, if— (I) the Secretary determines a different period is necessary for a type of motor vehicle for purposes of section 30111 of title 49, United States Code; and (II) requiring a different period for a type of motor vehicle is consistent with the prevention of carbon monoxide poisoning. (2) Deadline Unless the Secretary finds good cause to phase-in or delay implementation, the rule issued pursuant to paragraph (1) shall take effect on September 1 of the first calendar year beginning after the date on which the Secretary issues the rule. 4206. Petitions by interested persons for standards and enforcement Section 30162 of title 49, United States Code, is amended— (1) in subsection (b), by striking The petition A petition under this section (2) in subsection (c), by striking the petition a petition under this section (3) in subsection (d)— (A) in the third sentence, by striking If a petition (3) Denial If a petition under this section ; (B) in the second sentence, by striking If a petition is granted (2) Approval If a petition under this section is approved ; and (C) in the first sentence, by striking The Secretary shall grant or deny a petition (1) In general The Secretary shall determine whether to approve or deny a petition under this section by . 4207. Child safety seat accessibility study (a) In general The Secretary, in coordination with other relevant Federal departments and agencies, including the Secretary of Agriculture, the Secretary of Education, and the Secretary of Health and Human Services, shall conduct a study to review the status of motor vehicle child safety seat accessibility for low-income families and underserved populations. (b) Addressing needs In conducting the study under subsection (a), the Secretary shall— (1) examine the impact of Federal funding provided under section 405 of title 23, United States Code; and (2) develop a plan for addressing any needs identified in the study, including by working with social service providers. 4208. Crash avoidance technology (a) In general Subchapter II of chapter 301 30129. Crash avoidance technology (a) In general The Secretary of Transportation shall promulgate a rule— (1) to establish minimum performance standards with respect to crash avoidance technology; and (2) to require that all motor vehicles manufactured for sale in the United States on or after the compliance date described in subsection (b) shall be equipped with— (A) a forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking system that— (i) alerts the driver if— (I) the distance to a vehicle ahead or an object in the path of travel ahead is closing too quickly; and (II) a collision is imminent; and (ii) automatically applies the brakes if the driver fails to do so; and (B) a lane departure warning and lane-keeping assist system that— (i) warns the driver to maintain the lane of travel; and (ii) corrects the course of travel if the driver fails to do so. (b) Compliance date The Secretary of Transportation shall determine the appropriate effective date, and any phasing-in of requirements, of the final rule promulgated pursuant to subsection (a). . (b) Clerical amendment The analysis for subchapter II of chapter 301 30129. Crash avoidance technology. . 4209. Reduction of driver distraction (a) In general Not later than 3 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall conduct research regarding the installation and use on motor vehicles of driver monitoring systems to minimize or eliminate— (1) driver distraction; (2) driver disengagement; (3) automation complacency by drivers; and (4) foreseeable misuse of advanced driver-assist systems. (b) Report Not later than 180 days after the date of completion of the research under subsection (a), the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives a detailed report describing the findings of the research. (c) Rulemaking (1) In general If, based on the research completed under subsection (a), the Secretary determines that— (A) 1 or more additional rulemakings are necessary to ensure safety, in accordance with the section 30111 of title 49, United States Code, the Secretary shall initiate the rulemakings by not later than 2 years after the date of submission of the report under subsection (b); and (B) an additional rulemaking is not necessary, or an additional rulemaking cannot meet the applicable requirements and considerations described in subsections (a) and (b) of section 30111 of title 49, United States Code, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives a report describing the reasons for not prescribing additional Federal motor vehicle safety standards regarding the research conducted under subsection (a). (2) Privacy A rule issued pursuant to paragraph (1) shall incorporate appropriate privacy and data security safeguards, as determined by the Secretary. 4210. Rulemaking report (a) Definition of covered rulemaking In this section, the term covered rulemaking (1) has not been finalized by the date on which the relevant notification is submitted under subsection (b); and (2) relates to— (A) section 30120A of title 49, United States Code; (B) section 30166(o) of title 49, United States Code; (C) section 30172 of title 49, United States Code; (D) section 32302(c) of title 49, United States Code; (E) a defect reporting requirement under section 32302(d) of title 49, United States Code; (F) subsections (b) and (c) of section 32304A of title 49, United States Code; (G) the tire pressure monitoring standards required under section 24115 of the FAST Act ( 49 U.S.C. 30123 Public Law 114–94 (H) the amendment made by section 24402 of the FAST Act (129 Stat. 1720; Public Law 114–94 (I) the records retention rule required under section 24403 of the FAST Act ( 49 U.S.C. 30117 Public Law 114–94 (J) the amendments made by section 24405 of the FAST Act ( Public Law 114–94 (K) a defect and noncompliance notification required under— (i) section 24104 of the FAST Act ( 49 U.S.C. 30119 Public Law 114–94 (ii) section 31301 of MAP–21 ( 49 U.S.C. 30166 Public Law 112–141 (L) a side impact or frontal impact test procedure for child restraint systems under section 31501 of MAP–21 ( 49 U.S.C. 30127 Public Law 112–141 (M) an upgrade to child restraint anchorage system usability requirements required under section 31502 of MAP–21 ( 49 U.S.C. 30127 Public Law 112–141 (N) the rear seat belt reminder system required under section 31503 of MAP–21 ( 49 U.S.C. 30127 Public Law 112–141 (O) a motorcoach rulemaking required under section 32703 of MAP–21 ( 49 U.S.C. 31136 Public Law 112–141 (P) any rulemaking required under this Act. (b) Notification Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, and not less frequently than biannually thereafter until the applicable covered rulemaking is complete, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives a written notification that includes, with respect to each covered rulemaking— (1) for a covered rulemaking with a statutory deadline for completion— (A) an explanation of why the deadline was not met; and (B) an expected date of completion of the covered rulemaking; and (2) for a covered rulemaking without a statutory deadline for completion, an expected date of completion of the covered rulemaking. (c) Additional contents A notification under subsection (b) shall include, for each applicable covered rulemaking— (1) an updated timeline; (2) a list of factors causing delays in the completion of the covered rulemaking; and (3) any other details associated with the status of the covered rulemaking. 4211. Global harmonization The Secretary shall cooperate, to the maximum extent practicable, with foreign governments, nongovernmental stakeholder groups, the motor vehicle industry, and consumer groups with respect to global harmonization of vehicle regulations as a means for improving motor vehicle safety. 4212. Headlamps (a) Definitions In this section: (1) Adaptive driving beam headlamp The term adaptive driving beam headlamp (2) Standard 108 The term Standard 108 (b) Rulemaking Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall issue a final rule amending Standard 108— (1) to include performance-based standards for vehicle headlamp systems— (A) to ensure that headlights are correctly aimed on the road; and (B) requiring those systems to be tested on-vehicle to account for headlight height and lighting performance; and (2) to allow for the use on vehicles of adaptive driving beam headlamp systems. (c) Periodic review Nothing in this section precludes the Secretary from— (1) reviewing Standard 108, as amended pursuant to subsection (b); and (2) revising Standard 108 to reflect an updated version of SAE International Standard J3069, as the Secretary determines to be— (A) appropriate; and (B) in accordance with section 30111 of title 49, United States Code. 4213. New Car Assessment Program (a) Updates Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall finalize the proceeding for which comments were requested in the notice entitled New Car Assessment Program (b) Information program Section 32302 of title 49, United States Code, is amended— (1) in subsection (a), in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by inserting (referred to in this section as the Secretary of Transportation (2) by adding at the end the following: (e) Advanced crash-Avoidance technologies (1) Notice Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this subsection, the Secretary shall publish a notice, for purposes of public review and comment, to establish, distinct from crashworthiness information, a means for providing to consumers information relating to advanced crash-avoidance technologies, in accordance with subsection (a). (2) Inclusions The notice under paragraph (1) shall include— (A) an appropriate methodology for— (i) determining which advanced crash-avoidance technologies shall be included in the information; (ii) developing performance test criteria for use by manufacturers in evaluating advanced crash avoidance technologies; (iii) determining a distinct rating involving each advanced crash-avoidance technology to be included; and (iv) updating overall vehicle ratings to incorporate advanced crash-avoidance technology ratings; and (B) such other information and analyses as the Secretary determines to be necessary to implement the rating of advanced crash-avoidance technologies. (3) Report Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of this subsection, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives a report that describes a plan for implementing an advanced crash-avoidance technology information and rating system, in accordance with subsection (a). (f) Vulnerable road user safety (1) Notice Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this subsection, the Secretary shall publish a notice, for purposes of public review and comment, to establish a means for providing to consumers information relating to pedestrian, bicyclist, or other vulnerable road user safety technologies, in accordance with subsection (a). (2) Inclusions The notice under paragraph (1) shall include— (A) an appropriate methodology for— (i) determining which technologies shall be included in the information; (ii) developing performance test criteria for use by manufacturers in evaluating the extent to which automated pedestrian safety systems in light vehicles attempt to prevent and mitigate, to the best extent possible, pedestrian injury; (iii) determining a distinct rating involving each technology to be included; and (iv) updating overall vehicle ratings to incorporate vulnerable road user safety technology ratings; and (B) such other information and analyses as the Secretary determines to be necessary to implement the rating of vulnerable road user safety technologies. (3) Report Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of this subsection, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives a report that describes a plan for implementing an information and rating system for vulnerable road user safety technologies, in accordance with subsection (a). . (c) Roadmap (1) In general Chapter 323 32310. New Car Assessment Program roadmap (a) Establishment Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this section, and not less frequently than once every 4 years thereafter, the Secretary of Transportation (referred to in this section as the Secretary (b) Requirements A roadmap under subsection (a) shall— (1) cover a term of 10 years, consisting of— (A) a mid-term component covering the initial 5 years of the term; and (B) a long-term component covering the final 5 years of the term; and (2) be in accordance with— (A) section 306 of title 5; (B) section 1115 of title 31; (C) section 24401 of the FAST Act ( 49 U.S.C. 105 Public Law 114–94 (D) any other relevant plans of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. (c) Contents A roadmap under subsection (a) shall include— (1) a plan for any changes to the New Car Assessment Program of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, including— (A) descriptions of actions to be carried out to update the passenger motor vehicle information developed under section 32302(a), including the development of test procedures, test devices, test fixtures, and safety performance metrics, which shall, as applicable, incorporate— (i) objective criteria for evaluating safety technologies; and (ii) reasonable time periods for compliance with new or updated tests; (B) key milestones, including the anticipated start of an action, completion of an action, and effective date of an update; and (C) descriptions of the means by which an update will improve the passenger motor vehicle information developed under section 32302(a); (2) an identification and prioritization of safety opportunities and technologies— (A) with respect to the mid-term component of the roadmap under subsection (b)(1)(A)— (i) that are practicable; and (ii) for which objective rating tests, evaluation criteria, and other consumer data exist for a market-based, consumer information approach; and (B) with respect to the long-term component of the roadmap under subsection (b)(1)(B), exist or are in development; (3) an identification of— (A) any safety opportunity or technology that— (i) is identified through the activities carried out pursuant to subsection (d) or (e); and (ii) is not included in the roadmap under paragraph (2); (B) the reasons why such a safety opportunity or technology is not included in the roadmap; and (C) any developments or information that would be necessary for the Secretary to consider including such a safety opportunity or technology in a future roadmap; and (4) consideration of the benefits of consistency with other rating systems used— (A) within the United States; and (B) internationally. (d) Considerations Before finalizing a roadmap under this section, the Secretary shall— (1) make the roadmap available for public comment; (2) review any public comments received under paragraph (1); and (3) incorporate in the roadmap under this section those comments, as the Secretary determines to be appropriate. (e) Stakeholder engagement Not less frequently than annually, the Secretary shall engage stakeholders that represent a diversity of technical backgrounds and viewpoints— (1) to identify— (A) safety opportunities or technologies in development that could be included in future roadmaps; and (B) opportunities to benefit from collaboration or harmonization with third-party safety rating programs; (2) to assist with long-term planning; (3) to provide an interim update of the status and development of the following roadmap to be established under subsection (a); and (4) to collect feedback or other information that the Secretary determines to be relevant to enhancing the New Car Assessment Program of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. . (2) Clerical amendment The analysis for chapter 323 32310. New Car Assessment Program roadmap. . 4214. Hood and bumper standards (a) Notice Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall issue a notice, for purposes of public review and comment, regarding potential updates to hood and bumper standards for motor vehicles (as defined in section 30102(a) of title 49, United States Code). (b) Inclusions The notice under subsection (a) shall include information relating to— (1) the incorporation or consideration of advanced crash avoidance technology in existing motor vehicle standards; (2) the incorporation or consideration of standards or technologies to reduce the number of injuries and fatalities suffered by pedestrians, bicyclists, or other vulnerable road users; (3) the development of performance test criteria for use by manufacturers in evaluating advanced crash avoidance technology, including technology relating to vulnerable road user safety; (4) potential harmonization with global standards, including United Nations Economic Commission for Europe Regulation Number 42; and (5) such other information and analyses as the Secretary determines to be necessary. (c) Report Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives a report that describes— (1) the current status of hood and bumper standards; (2) relevant advanced crash avoidance technology; (3) actions needed to be carried out to develop performance test criteria; and (4) if applicable, a plan for incorporating advanced crash avoidance technology, including technology relating to vulnerable road user safety, in existing standards. 4215. Emergency medical services and 9–1–1 Section 158(a) of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration Organization Act ( 47 U.S.C. 942(a) 4216. Early warning reporting (a) In general Section 30166(m)(3) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following: (D) Settlements Notwithstanding any order entered in a civil action restricting the disclosure of information, a manufacturer of a motor vehicle or motor vehicle equipment shall comply with the requirements of this subsection and any regulations promulgated pursuant to this subsection. . (b) Study and report Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the Administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shall— (1) conduct a study— (A) to evaluate the early warning reporting data submitted under section 30166(m) of title 49, United States Code (including regulations); and (B) to identify improvements, if any, that would enhance the use by the National Highway Traffic Administration of early warning reporting data to enhance safety; and (2) submit to the Committee on the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives a report describing the results of the study under paragraph (1), including any recommendations for regulatory or legislative action. 4217. Improved vehicle safety databases Not later than 3 years after the date of enactment of this Act, after consultation with frequent users of publicly available databases, the Secretary shall improve public accessibility to information relating to the publicly accessible vehicle safety databases of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration by revising the publicly accessible vehicle safety databases— (1) to improve organization and functionality, including design features such as drop-down menus; (2) to allow data from applicable publicly accessible vehicle safety databases to be searched, sorted, aggregated, and downloaded in a manner that— (A) is consistent with the public interest; and (B) facilitates easy use by consumers; (3) to provide greater consistency in presentation of vehicle safety issues; (4) to improve searchability regarding specific vehicles and issues, which may include the standardization of commonly used search terms; and (5) to ensure nonconfidential documents and materials relating to information created or obtained by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration are made publicly available in a manner that is— (A) timely; and (B) searchable in databases by any element that the Secretary determines to be in the public interest. 4218. National Driver Register Advisory Committee repeal (a) In general Section 30306 of title 49, United States Code, is repealed. (b) Clerical amendment The analysis for chapter 303 4219. Research on connected vehicle technology The Administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in collaboration with the head of the Intelligent Transportation Systems Joint Program Office and the Administrator of the Federal Highway Administration, shall— (1) not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, expand vehicle-to-pedestrian research efforts to ensure that bicyclists and other vulnerable road users will be incorporated into the safe deployment of connected vehicle systems; and (2) not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, submit to Congress and make publicly available a report describing the findings of the research efforts described in paragraph (1). 4220. Advanced impaired driving technology (a) Findings Congress finds that— (1) alcohol-impaired driving fatalities represent approximately 1/3 (2) in 2019, there were 10,142 alcohol-impaired driving fatalities in the United States involving drivers with a blood alcohol concentration level of .08 or higher, and 68 percent of the crashes that resulted in those fatalities involved a driver with a blood alcohol concentration level of .15 or higher; (3) the estimated economic cost for alcohol-impaired driving in 2010 was $44,000,000,000; (4) according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, advanced drunk and impaired driving prevention technology can prevent more than 9,400 alcohol-impaired driving fatalities annually; and (5) to ensure the prevention of alcohol-impaired driving fatalities, advanced drunk and impaired driving prevention technology must be standard equipment in all new passenger motor vehicles. (b) Definitions In this section: (1) Advanced drunk and impaired driving prevention technology The term advanced drunk and impaired driving prevention technology (A) can— (i) passively monitor the performance of a driver of a motor vehicle to accurately identify whether that driver may be impaired; and (ii) prevent or limit motor vehicle operation if an impairment is detected; (B) can— (i) passively and accurately detect whether the blood alcohol concentration of a driver of a motor vehicle is equal to or greater than the blood alcohol concentration described in section 163(a) of title 23, United States Code; and (ii) prevent or limit motor vehicle operation if a blood alcohol concentration above the legal limit is detected; or (C) is a combination of systems described in subparagraphs (A) and (B). (2) New The term new (A) is a new vehicle (as defined in section 37.3 of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations (or a successor regulation)); and (B) has not been purchased for purposes other than resale. (3) Passenger motor vehicle The term passenger motor vehicle (4) Secretary The term Secretary (c) Advanced drunk and impaired driving prevention technology safety standard Subject to subsection (e) and not later than 3 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall issue a final rule prescribing a Federal motor vehicle safety standard under section 30111 of title 49, United States Code, that requires passenger motor vehicles manufactured after the effective date of that standard to be equipped with advanced drunk and impaired driving prevention technology. (d) Requirements (1) Lead time To allow sufficient time for manufacturer compliance, the compliance date of the rule issued under subsection (c) shall be not earlier than 2 years and not more than 3 years after the date on which that rule is issued. (2) Technical capability Any advanced drunk and impaired driving prevention technology required for new passenger motor vehicles under subsection (c) that measures blood alcohol concentration shall use the blood alcohol concentration described in section 163(a) of title 23, United States Code. (e) Timing If the Secretary determines that the Federal motor vehicle safety standard required under subsection (c) cannot meet the requirements and considerations described in subsections (a) and (b) of section 30111 of title 49, United States Code, by the applicable date, the Secretary— (1) may extend the time period to such date as the Secretary determines to be necessary, but not later than the date that is 3 years after the date described in subsection (c); and (2) shall, not later than the date described in subsection (c) and not less frequently than annually thereafter until the date on which the rule under that subsection is issued, submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives a report describing, as of the date of submission of the report— (A) the reasons for not prescribing a Federal motor vehicle safety standard under section 30111 of title 49, United States Code, that requires advanced drunk and impaired driving prevention technology in all new passenger motor vehicles; (B) the deployment of advanced drunk and impaired driving prevention technology in vehicles; (C) any information relating to the ability of vehicle manufacturers to include advanced drunk and impaired driving prevention technology in new passenger motor vehicles; and (D) an anticipated timeline for prescribing the Federal motor vehicle safety standard described in subsection (c). V Research and innovation 5001. Intelligent Transportation Systems Program Advisory Committee Section 515(h) of title 23, United States Code, is amended— (1) in paragraph (1), by inserting (referred to in this subsection as the Advisory Committee an Advisory Committee (2) in paragraph (2)— (A) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking 20 members 25 members (B) in subparagraph (K), by striking ; and (C) in subparagraph (L)— (i) by striking utilities, (ii) by striking the period at the end and inserting a semicolon; (D) by redesignating subparagraphs (E) through (L) as subparagraphs (G), (I), (J), (K), (L), (M), (Q), and (R), respectively; (E) by inserting after subparagraph (D) the following: (E) a representative of a national transit association; (F) a representative of a national, State, or local transportation agency or association; ; (F) by inserting after subparagraph (G) (as so redesignated) the following: (H) a private sector developer of intelligent transportation system technologies, which may include emerging vehicle technologies; ; (G) by inserting after subparagraph (M) (as so redesignated) the following: (N) a representative of a labor organization; (O) a representative of a mobility-providing entity; (P) an expert in traffic management; ; and (H) by adding at the end the following: (S) an expert in cybersecurity; and (T) an automobile manufacturer. ; (3) in paragraph (3)— (A) in subparagraph (A), by striking section 508 section 6503 of title 49 (B) in subparagraph (B)— (i) in the matter preceding clause (i), by inserting programs and research (ii) in clause (iii), by striking research and programs, research, and (4) by redesignating paragraphs (3) through (5) as paragraphs (5) through (7); and (5) by inserting after paragraph (2) the following: (3) Term (A) In general The term of a member of the Advisory Committee shall be 3 years. (B) Renewal On expiration of the term of a member of the Advisory Committee, the member— (i) may be reappointed; or (ii) if the member is not reappointed under clause (i), may serve until a new member is appointed. (4) Meetings The Advisory Committee— (A) shall convene not less frequently than twice each year; and (B) may convene with the use of remote video conference technology. . 5002. Smart Community Resource Center (a) Definitions In this section: (1) Resource center The term resource center (2) Smart community The term smart community (b) Establishment The Secretary shall work with the modal administrations of the Department and with such other Federal agencies and departments as the Secretary determines to be appropriate to make available to the public on an Internet website a resource center, to be known as the Smart Community Resource Center (1) intelligent transportation system programs; or (2) smart community transportation programs. (c) Inclusions The resource center shall include links to— (1) existing programs and resources for intelligent transportation system or smart community transportation programs, including technical assistance, education, training, funding, and examples of intelligent transportation systems or smart community transportation programs implemented by States and local communities, available from— (A) the Department; (B) other Federal agencies; and (C) non-Federal sources; (2) existing reports or databases with the results of intelligent transportation system or smart community transportation programs; (3) any best practices developed or lessons learned from intelligent transportation system or smart community transportation programs; and (4) such other resources as the Secretary determines to be appropriate. (d) Deadline The Secretary shall establish the resource center by the date that is 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act. (e) Updates The Secretary shall ensure that the resource center is updated on a regular basis. 5003. Federal support for local decisionmaking (a) Local outreach To determine the data analysis tools needed to assist local communities in making infrastructure decisions, the Director of the Bureau of Transportation Statistics shall perform outreach to planning and infrastructure decision-making officials in units of local government and other units of government, including a geographically diverse group of individuals from— (1) States; (2) political subdivisions of States; (3) cities; (4) metropolitan planning organizations; (5) regional transportation planning organizations; and (6) federally recognized Indian Tribes. (b) Work plan (1) In general Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, based on the outreach performed under subsection (a), the Director of the Bureau of Transportation Statistics shall submit to the Secretary a work plan for reviewing and updating existing data analysis tools and developing any additional data analysis tools needed to assist local communities with making infrastructure investment decisions. (2) Contents Based on the needs identified pursuant to the outreach performed under subsection (a), the work plan submitted under paragraph (1) shall include— (A) a description of the data analysis tools identified that would benefit infrastructure decision-making by local governments and address the goals described in subsection (c); (B) a review of the datasets that local governments need to effectively use the data analysis tools described in subparagraph (A); (C) an identification of existing or proposed data analysis tools that use publicly available data; (D) the estimated cost of obtaining each dataset described in subparagraph (B); (E) the estimated cost to develop the data analysis tools described in subparagraph (A); (F) a prioritization for the development of data analysis tools described in subparagraph (A); and (G) a determination as to whether it would be appropriate for the Federal Government to develop the data analysis tools described in subparagraph (A). (c) Goals (1) In general A data analysis tool created pursuant to the work plan submitted under subsection (b)(1) shall be developed to help inform local communities in making infrastructure investments. (2) Specific issues A data analysis tool created pursuant to the work plan submitted under subsection (b)(1) shall be intended to help units of local government and other units of government address 1 or more of the following: (A) Improving maintenance of existing assets. (B) Rebuilding infrastructure to a state of good repair. (C) Creating economic development through infrastructure development. (D) Establishing freight plans and infrastructure that connects the community to supply chains. (E) Increasing options for communities that lack access to affordable transportation to improve access to jobs, affordable housing, schools, medical services, foods and other essential community services. (F) Reducing congestion. (G) Improving community resilience to extreme weather events. (H) Any other subject, as the Director determines to be necessary. (d) Implementation Subject to the availability of appropriations, the Secretary shall develop data analysis tools and purchase datasets as prioritized in the work plan. (e) Coordination The Director of the Bureau of Transportation Statistics may utilize existing working groups or advisory committees to perform the local outreach required under subsection (a). 5004. Bureau of Transportation Statistics (a) Funding In addition to amounts made available from the Highway Trust Fund, there is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary for use by the Bureau of Transportation Statistics for data collection and analysis activities $10,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2022 through 2026. (b) Amendment Section 6302(b)(3)(B)(vi) of title 49, United States Code, is amended— (1) by striking subclause (V); (2) by redesignating subclauses (VI) through (XI) as subclauses (VII) through (XII), respectively; and (3) by adding after subclause (IV) the following: (V) employment in the transportation sector; (VI) the effects of the transportation system, including advanced technologies and automation, on global and domestic economic competitiveness; . 5005. Strengthening mobility and revolutionizing transportation grant program (a) Definitions In this section: (1) Eligible entity The term eligible entity (A) a State; (B) a political subdivision of a State; (C) a Tribal government; (D) a public transit agency or authority; (E) a public toll authority; (F) a metropolitan planning organization; and (G) a group of 2 or more eligible entities described in any of subparagraphs (A) through (F) applying through a single lead applicant. (2) Eligible project The term eligible project (3) Large community The term large community (4) Midsized community The term midsized community (5) Regional partnership The term regional partnership (6) Rural community The term rural community (7) SMART grant The term SMART grant (b) Establishment of program The Secretary shall establish a program, to be known as the Strengthening Mobility and Revolutionizing Transportation Grant Program (c) Distribution In determining the projects for which to provide a SMART grant, the Secretary shall consider contributions to geographical diversity among grant recipients, including the need for balancing the needs of rural communities, midsized communities, and large communities, consistent with the requirements of subparagraphs (A) through (C) of subsection (g)(1). (d) Applications (1) In general An eligible entity may submit to the Secretary an application for a SMART grant at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary may require. (2) Transparency The Secretary shall include, in any notice of funding availability relating to SMART grants, a full description of the method by which applications under paragraph (1) will be evaluated. (3) Selection criteria (A) In general The Secretary shall evaluate applications for SMART grants based on— (i) the extent to which the eligible entity or applicable beneficiary community— (I) has a public transportation system or other transit options capable of integration with other systems to improve mobility and efficiency; (II) has a population density and transportation needs conducive to demonstrating proposed strategies; (III) has continuity of committed leadership and the functional capacity to carry out the proposed project; (IV) is committed to open data sharing with the public; and (V) is likely to successfully implement the proposed eligible project, including through technical and financial commitments from the public and private sectors; and (ii) the extent to which a proposed eligible project will use advanced data, technology, and applications to provide significant benefits to a local area, a State, a region, or the United States, including the extent to which the proposed eligible project will— (I) reduce congestion and delays for commerce and the traveling public; (II) improve the safety and integration of transportation facilities and systems for pedestrians, bicyclists, and the broader traveling public; (III) improve access to jobs, education, and essential services, including health care; (IV) connect or expand access for underserved or disadvantaged populations and reduce transportation costs; (V) contribute to medium- and long-term economic competitiveness; (VI) improve the reliability of existing transportation facilities and systems; (VII) promote connectivity between and among connected vehicles, roadway infrastructure, pedestrians, bicyclists, the public, and transportation systems; (VIII) incentivize private sector investments or partnerships, including by working with mobile and fixed telecommunication service providers, to the extent practicable; (IX) improve energy efficiency or reduce pollution; (X) increase the resiliency of the transportation system; and (XI) improve emergency response. (B) Priority In providing SMART grants, the Secretary shall give priority to applications for eligible projects that would— (i) demonstrate smart city or community technologies in repeatable ways that can rapidly be scaled; (ii) encourage public and private sharing of data and best practices; (iii) encourage private-sector innovation by promoting industry-driven technology standards, open platforms, technology-neutral requirements, and interoperability; (iv) promote a skilled workforce that is inclusive of minority or disadvantaged groups; (v) allow for the measurement and validation of the cost savings and performance improvements associated with the installation and use of smart city or community technologies and practices; (vi) encourage the adoption of smart city or community technologies by communities; (vii) promote industry practices regarding cybersecurity; and (viii) safeguard individual privacy. (e) Use of grant funds (1) Eligible projects (A) In general A SMART grant may be used to carry out a project that demonstrates at least 1 of the following: (i) Coordinated automation The use of automated transportation and autonomous vehicles, while working to minimize the impact on the accessibility of any other user group or mode of travel. (ii) Connected vehicles Vehicles that send and receive information regarding vehicle movements in the network and use vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-everything communications to provide advanced and reliable connectivity. (iii) Intelligent, sensor-based infrastructure The deployment and use of a collective intelligent infrastructure that allows sensors to collect and report real-time data to inform everyday transportation-related operations and performance. (iv) Systems integration The integration of intelligent transportation systems with other existing systems and other advanced transportation technologies. (v) Commerce delivery and logistics Innovative data and technological solutions supporting efficient goods movement, such as connected vehicle probe data, road weather data, or global positioning data to improve on-time pickup and delivery, improved travel time reliability, reduced fuel consumption and emissions, and reduced labor and vehicle maintenance costs. (vi) Leveraging use of innovative aviation technology Leveraging the use of innovative aviation technologies, such as unmanned aircraft systems, to support transportation safety and efficiencies, including traffic monitoring and infrastructure inspection. (vii) Smart grid Development of a programmable and efficient energy transmission and distribution system to support the adoption or expansion of energy capture, electric vehicle deployment, or freight or commercial fleet fuel efficiency. (2) Eligible project costs A SMART grant may be used for— (A) development phase activities, including— (i) planning; (ii) feasibility analyses; (iii) revenue forecasting; (iv) environmental review; (v) permitting; (vi) preliminary engineering and design work; (vii) systems development or information technology work; and (viii) acquisition of real property (including land and improvements to land relating to an eligible project); and (B) construction phase activities, including— (i) construction; (ii) reconstruction; (iii) rehabilitation; (iv) replacement; (v) environmental mitigation; (vi) construction contingencies; and (vii) acquisition of equipment, including vehicles. (3) Prohibited uses A SMART grant shall not be used— (A) to reimburse any preaward costs or application preparation costs of the SMART grant application; (B) for any traffic or parking enforcement activity; or (C) to purchase or lease a license plate reader. (f) Reports (1) Eligible entities Not later than 2 years after the date on which an eligible entity receives a SMART grant, and annually thereafter until the date on which the SMART grant is expended, the eligible entity shall submit to the Secretary an implementation report that describes— (A) the deployment and operational costs of each eligible project carried out by the eligible entity, as compared to the benefits and savings from the eligible project; and (B) the means by which each eligible project carried out by the eligible entity has met the original expectation, as projected in the SMART grant application, including— (i) data describing the means by which the eligible project met the specific goals for the project, such as— (I) reducing traffic-related fatalities and injuries; (II) reducing traffic congestion or improved travel-time reliability; (III) providing the public with access to real-time integrated traffic, transit, and multimodal transportation information to make informed travel decisions; or (IV) reducing barriers or improved access to jobs, education, or various essential services; (ii) the effectiveness of providing to the public real-time integrated traffic, transit, and multimodal transportation information to make informed travel decisions; and (iii) lessons learned and recommendations for future deployment strategies to optimize transportation efficiency and multimodal system performance. (2) GAO Not later than 4 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States shall conduct, and submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate, the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives, and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives a report describing the results of, a review of the SMART grant program under this section. (3) Secretary Not later than 2 years after the date on which the initial SMART grants are provided under this section, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate, the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of Representatives, and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives a report that— (A) describes each eligible entity that received a SMART grant; (B) identifies the amount of each SMART grant provided; (C) summarizes the intended uses of each SMART grant; (D) describes the effectiveness of recipient eligible entities in meeting the goals described in the SMART grant application of the eligible entity, including an assessment or measurement of the realized improvements or benefits resulting from each SMART grant; and (E) describes lessons learned and recommendations for future deployment strategies to optimize transportation efficiency and multimodal system performance. (g) Authorization of appropriations (1) In general There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary $100,000,000 for each of the first 5 fiscal years beginning after the date of enactment of this Act, of which— (A) not more than 40 percent shall be used to provide SMART grants for eligible projects that primarily benefit large communities; (B) not more than 30 percent shall be provided for eligible projects that primarily benefit midsized communities; and (C) not more than 30 percent shall be used to provide SMART grants for eligible projects that primarily benefit rural communities or regional partnerships. (2) Administrative costs Of the amounts made available under paragraph (1) for each fiscal year, not more than 2 percent shall be used for administrative costs of the Secretary in carrying out this section. (3) Limitation An eligible entity may not use more than 3 percent of the amount of a SMART grant for each fiscal year to achieve compliance with applicable planning and reporting requirements. (4) Availability The amounts made available for a fiscal year pursuant to this subsection shall be available for obligation during the 2-fiscal-year period beginning on the first day of the fiscal year for which the amounts were appropriated. 5006. Electric vehicle working group (a) Definitions In this section: (1) Secretaries The term Secretaries (A) the Secretary; and (B) the Secretary of Energy. (2) Working group The term working group (b) Establishment (1) In general Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretaries shall jointly establish an electric vehicle working group to make recommendations regarding the development, adoption, and integration of light-, medium-, and heavy-duty electric vehicles into the transportation and energy systems of the United States. (2) Membership (A) In general The working group shall be composed of— (i) the Secretaries (or designees), who shall be cochairs of the working group; and (ii) not more than 25 members, to be appointed by the Secretaries, of whom— (I) not more than 6 shall be Federal stakeholders as described in subparagraph (B); and (II) not more than 19 shall be non-Federal stakeholders as described in subparagraph (C). (B) Federal stakeholders The working group— (i) shall include not fewer than 1 representative of each of— (I) the Department; (II) the Department of Energy; (III) the Environmental Protection Agency; (IV) the Council on Environmental Quality; and (V) the General Services Administration; and (ii) may include a representative of any other Federal agency the Secretaries consider to be appropriate. (C) Non-Federal stakeholders (i) In general Subject to clause (ii), the working group— (I) shall include not fewer than 1 representative of each of— (aa) a manufacturer of light-duty electric vehicles or the relevant components of light-duty electric vehicles; (bb) a manufacturer of medium- and heavy-duty vehicles or the relevant components of medium- and heavy-duty electric vehicles; (cc) a manufacturer of electric vehicle batteries; (dd) an owner, operator, or manufacturer of electric vehicle charging equipment; (ee) the public utility industry; (ff) a public utility regulator or association of public utility regulators; (gg) the transportation fueling distribution industry; (hh) the energy provider industry; (ii) the automotive dealing industry; (jj) the for-hire passenger transportation industry; (kk) an organization representing units of local government; (ll) an organization representing regional transportation or planning agencies; (mm) an organization representing State departments of transportation; (nn) an organization representing State departments of energy or State energy planners; (oo) the intelligent transportation systems and technologies industry; (pp) organized labor; (qq) the trucking industry; (rr) Tribal governments; and (ss) the property development industry; and (II) may include a representative of any other non-Federal stakeholder that the Secretaries consider to be appropriate. (ii) Requirement The stakeholders selected under clause (i) shall, in the aggregate— (I) consist of individuals with a balance of backgrounds, experiences, and viewpoints; and (II) include individuals that represent geographically diverse regions of the United States, including individuals representing the perspectives of rural, urban, and suburban areas. (3) Meetings (A) In general The working group shall meet not less frequently than once every 120 days. (B) Remote participation A member of the working group may participate in a meeting of the working group via teleconference or similar means. (4) Coordination In carrying out the duties of the working group, the working group shall coordinate and consult with any existing Federal interagency working groups on fleet conversion or other similar matters relating to electric vehicles. (c) Reports and strategy on electric vehicle adoption (1) Working group reports The working group shall complete by each of the deadlines described in paragraph (2) a report describing the status of electric vehicle adoption including— (A) a description of the barriers and opportunities to scaling up electric vehicle adoption throughout the United States, including recommendations for issues relating to— (i) consumer behavior; (ii) charging infrastructure needs, including standardization and cybersecurity; (iii) manufacturing and battery costs, including the raw material shortages for batteries and electric motor magnets; (iv) the adoption of electric vehicles for low- and moderate-income individuals and underserved communities, including charging infrastructure access and vehicle purchase financing; (v) business models for charging personal electric vehicles outside the home, including wired and wireless charging; (vi) charging infrastructure permitting and regulatory issues; (vii) the connections between housing and transportation costs and emissions; (viii) freight transportation, including local, port and drayage, regional, and long-haul trucking; (ix) intercity passenger travel; (x) the process by which governments collect a user fee for the contribution of electric vehicles to funding roadway improvements; (xi) State- and local-level policies, incentives, and zoning efforts; (xii) the installation of highway corridor signage; (xiii) secondary markets and recycling for batteries; (xiv) grid capacity and integration; (xv) energy storage; and (xvi) specific regional or local issues that may not appear to apply throughout the United States, but may hamper nationwide adoption or coordination of electric vehicles; (B) examples of successful public and private models and demonstration projects that encourage electric vehicle adoption; (C) an analysis of current efforts to overcome the barriers described in subparagraph (A); (D) an analysis of the estimated costs and benefits of any recommendations of the working group; and (E) any other topics, as determined by the working group. (2) Deadlines A report under paragraph (1) shall be submitted to the Secretaries, the Committees on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and Appropriations of the Senate and the Committees on Transportation and Infrastructure and Appropriations of the House of Representatives— (A) in the case of the first report, by not later than 18 months after the date on which the working group is established under subsection (b)(1); (B) in the case of the second report, by not later than 2 years after the date on which the first report is required to be submitted under subparagraph (A); and (C) in the case of the third report, by not later than 2 years after the date on which the second report is required to be submitted under subparagraph (B). (3) Strategy (A) In general Based on the reports submitted by the working group under paragraph (1), the Secretaries shall jointly develop, maintain, and update a strategy that describes the means by which the Federal Government, States, units of local government, and industry can— (i) establish quantitative targets for transportation electrification; (ii) overcome the barriers described in paragraph (1)(A); (iii) identify areas of opportunity in research and development to improve battery manufacturing, mineral mining, recycling costs, material recovery, fire risks, and battery performance for electric vehicles; (iv) enhance Federal interagency coordination to promote electric vehicle adoption; (v) prepare the workforce for the adoption of electric vehicles, including through collaboration with labor unions, educational institutions, and relevant manufacturers; (vi) expand electric vehicle and charging infrastructure; (vii) expand knowledge of the benefits of electric vehicles among the general public; (viii) maintain the global competitiveness of the United States in the electric vehicle and charging infrastructure markets; (ix) provide clarity in regulations to improve national uniformity with respect to electric vehicles; and (x) ensure the sustainable integration of electric vehicles into the national electric grid. (B) Notice and comment In carrying out subparagraph (A), the Secretaries shall provide public notice and opportunity for comment on the strategy described in that subparagraph. (4) Information (A) In general The Secretaries may enter into an agreement with the Transportation Research Board of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine to provide, track, or report data, information, or research to assist the working group in carrying out paragraph (1). (B) Use of existing information In developing a report under paragraph (1) or a strategy under paragraph (3), the Secretaries and the working group shall take into consideration existing Federal, State, local, private sector, and academic data and information relating to electric vehicles and, to the maximum extent practicable, coordinate with the entities that publish that information— (i) to prevent duplication of efforts by the Federal Government; and (ii) to leverage existing information and complementary efforts. (d) Coordination To the maximum extent practicable, the Secretaries and the working group shall carry out this section using all available existing resources, websites, and databases of Federal agencies, such as— (1) the Alternative Fuels Data Center; (2) the Energy Efficient Mobility Systems program; and (3) the Clean Cities Coalition Network. 5007. Risk and system resilience (a) In general The Secretary, in consultation with appropriate Federal, State, and local agencies, shall develop a process for quantifying annual risk in order to increase system resilience with respect to the surface transportation system of the United States by measuring— (1) resilience to threat probabilities by type of hazard and geographical location; (2) resilience to asset vulnerabilities with respect to each applicable threat; and (3) anticipated consequences from each applicable threat to each asset. (b) Use by State, regional, Tribal, and local entities (1) In general The Secretary shall provide the process developed under subsection (a) to State departments of transportation, metropolitan planning organizations, Indian Tribes, local governments, and other relevant entities. (2) Guidance and technical assistance The Secretary shall provide to the entities described in paragraph (1) guidance and technical assistance on the use of the process referred to in that paragraph. (c) Research (1) In general The Secretary shall— (A) identify and support fundamental research to develop a framework and quantitative models to support compilation of information for risk-based analysis of transportation assets by standardizing the basis for quantifying annual risk and increasing system resilience; and (B) build on existing resilience research, including studies conducted by— (i) the Transportation Research Board of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine; and (ii) the National Institute of Standards and Technology. (2) Use of existing facilities In carrying out paragraph (1), the Secretary shall use existing research facilities available to the Secretary, including the Turner–Fairbank Highway Research Center and University Transportation Centers established under section 5505 of title 49, United States Code. 5008. Coordination on emerging transportation technology (a) In general Subchapter I of chapter 3 313. Nontraditional and Emerging Transportation Technology Council (a) Establishment Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this section, the Secretary of Transportation (referred to in this section as the Secretary Nontraditional and Emerging Transportation Technology Council Council (b) Membership (1) In general The Council shall be composed of— (A) the Secretary, who shall serve as an ex officio member of the Council; (B) the Deputy Secretary of Transportation; (C) the Under Secretary of Transportation for Policy; (D) the Assistant Secretary for Research and Technology of the Department of Transportation; (E) the Assistant Secretary for Budget and Programs of the Department of Transportation; (F) the General Counsel of the Department of Transportation; (G) the Chief Information Officer of the Department of Transportation; (H) the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration; (I) the Administrator of the Federal Highway Administration; (J) the Administrator of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration; (K) the Administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration; (L) the Administrator of the Federal Transit Administration; (M) the Administrator of the Maritime Administration; (N) the Administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration; (O) the Administrator of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration; and (P) any other official of the Department of Transportation, as determined by the Secretary. (2) Chair and Vice Chair (A) Chair The Deputy Secretary of Transportation (or a designee) shall serve as Chair of the Council. (B) Vice Chair The Under Secretary of Transportation for Policy (or a designee) shall serve as Vice Chair of the Council. (c) Duties The Council shall— (1) identify and resolve jurisdictional and regulatory gaps or inconsistencies associated with nontraditional and emerging transportation technologies, modes, or projects pending or brought before the Department of Transportation to reduce, to the maximum extent practicable, impediments to the prompt and safe deployment of new and innovative transportation technology, including with respect to— (A) safety oversight; (B) environmental review; and (C) funding and financing issues; (2) coordinate the response of the Department of Transportation to nontraditional and emerging transportation technology projects; (3) engage with stakeholders in nontraditional and emerging transportation technology projects; and (4) develop and establish Department of Transportation-wide processes, solutions, and best practices for identifying and managing nontraditional and emerging transportation technology projects. (d) Best practices Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this section, the Council shall— (1) publish initial guidelines to achieve the purposes described in subsection (c)(4); and (2) promote each modal administration within the Department of Transportation to further test and support the advancement of nontraditional and emerging transportation technologies not specifically considered by the Council. (e) Support The Office of the Secretary shall provide support for the Council. (f) Meetings The Council shall meet not less frequently than 4 times per year, at the call of the Chair. (g) Lead modal administration For each nontraditional or emerging transportation technology, mode, or project associated with a jurisdictional or regulatory gap or inconsistency identified under subsection (c)(1), the Chair of the Council shall— (1) designate a lead modal administration of the Department of Transportation for review of the technology, mode, or project; and (2) arrange for the detailing of staff between modal administrations or offices of the Department of Transportation as needed to maximize the sharing of experience and expertise. (h) Transparency Not later than 1 year after the date of establishment of the Council, and not less frequently than annually thereafter until December 31, 2026, the Council shall post on a publicly accessible website a report describing the activities of the Council during the preceding calendar year. . (b) Clerical amendment The analysis for subchapter I of chapter 3 313. Nontraditional and Emerging Transportation Technology Council. . 5009. Interagency Infrastructure Permitting Improvement Center (a) In general Section 102 of title 49, United States Code, is amended— (1) in subsection (a), by inserting (referred to in this section as the Department Transportation (2) in subsection (b), in the first sentence, by inserting (referred to in this section as the Secretary Transportation (3) in subsection (f)(1), by striking of Transportation (4) by redesignating subsection (h) as subsection (i); and (5) by inserting after subsection (g) the following: (h) Interagency Infrastructure Permitting Improvement Center (1) Definitions In this subsection: (A) Center The term Center (B) Project The term project (i) this title; or (ii) title 14, 23, 46, or 51. (2) Establishment There is established within the Office of the Secretary a center, to be known as the Interagency Infrastructure Permitting Improvement Center (3) Purposes The purposes of the Center shall be— (A) to implement reforms to improve interagency coordination and expedite projects relating to the permitting and environmental review of major transportation infrastructure projects, including— (i) developing and deploying information technology tools to track project schedules and metrics; and (ii) improving the transparency and accountability of the permitting process; (B) (i) to identify appropriate methods to assess environmental impacts; and (ii) to develop innovative methods for reasonable mitigation; (C) to reduce uncertainty and delays with respect to environmental reviews and permitting; and (D) to reduce costs and risks to taxpayers in project delivery. (4) Executive Director The Center shall be headed by an Executive Director, who shall— (A) report to the Under Secretary of Transportation for Policy; (B) be responsible for the management and oversight of the daily activities, decisions, operations, and personnel of the Center; and (C) carry out such additional duties as the Secretary may prescribe. (5) Duties The Center shall carry out the following duties: (A) Coordinate and support implementation of priority reform actions for Federal agency permitting and reviews. (B) Support modernization efforts at the operating administrations within the Department and interagency pilot programs relating to innovative approaches to the permitting and review of transportation infrastructure projects. (C) Provide technical assistance and training to Department staff on policy changes, innovative approaches to project delivery, and other topics, as appropriate. (D) Identify, develop, and track metrics for timeliness of permit reviews, permit decisions, and project outcomes. (E) Administer and expand the use of online transparency tools providing for— (i) tracking and reporting of metrics; (ii) development and posting of schedules for permit reviews and permit decisions; (iii) the sharing of best practices relating to efficient project permitting and reviews; and (iv) the visual display of relevant geospatial data to support the permitting process. (F) Submit to the Secretary reports describing progress made toward achieving— (i) greater efficiency in permitting decisions and review of infrastructure projects; and (ii) better outcomes for communities and the environment. (6) Innovative best practices (A) In general The Center shall work with the operating administrations within the Department, eligible entities, and other public and private interests to develop and promote best practices for innovative project delivery. (B) Activities The Center shall support the Department and operating administrations in conducting environmental reviews and permitting, together with project sponsor technical assistance activities, by— (i) carrying out activities that are appropriate and consistent with the goals and policies of the Department to improve the delivery timelines for projects; (ii) serving as the Department liaison to— (I) the Council on Environmental Quality; and (II) the Federal Permitting Improvement Steering Council established by section 41002(a) of the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation Act ( 42 U.S.C. 4370m–1(a) (iii) supporting the National Surface Transportation and Innovative Finance Bureau (referred to in this paragraph as the Bureau (iv) leading activities to improve delivery timelines for projects carried out under programs not administered by the Bureau by— (I) coordinating efforts to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the environmental review and permitting process; (II) providing technical assistance and training to field and headquarters staff of Federal agencies with respect to policy changes and innovative approaches to the delivery of projects; and (III) identifying, developing, and tracking metrics for permit reviews and decisions by Federal agencies for projects under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 (C) NEPA compliance assistance (i) In general Subject to clause (ii), at the request of an entity that is carrying out a project, the Center, in coordination with the appropriate operating administrations within the Department, shall provide technical assistance relating to compliance with the applicable requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 ( 42 U.S.C. 4321 (ii) Assistance from the Bureau For projects carried out under the programs described in section 116(d)(1) for which the Bureau administers the application process, the Bureau, on request of the entity carrying out the project, shall provide the technical assistance described in clause (i). . (b) Conforming amendment Section 116(f)(2) of title 49, United States Code, is amended— (1) by striking subparagraph (A); and (2) by redesignating subparagraphs (B) through (D) and subparagraphs (A) through (C), respectively. 5010. Rural opportunities to use transportation for economic success initiative (a) Definitions In this section: (1) Build America Bureau The term Build America Bureau (2) ROUTES Council The term ROUTES Council (3) ROUTES Office The term ROUTES Office (b) Routes Office (1) In general The Secretary shall establish within the Department the Rural Opportunities to Use Transportation for Economic Success Office— (A) to improve analysis of projects from rural areas, federally recognized Indian Tribes, and historically disadvantaged communities in rural or Tribal areas applying for Department discretionary grants, including ensuring that project costs, local resources, and the larger benefits to the people and the economy of the United States are appropriately considered; and (B) to provide rural communities, federally recognized Indian Tribes, and historically disadvantaged communities in rural or Tribal areas with technical assistance for meeting the transportation infrastructure investment needs of the United States in a financially sustainable manner. (2) Objectives The ROUTES Office shall— (A) collect input from knowledgeable entities and the public on— (i) the benefits of rural and Tribal transportation projects; (ii) the technical and financial assistance required for constructing and operating rural and Tribal transportation infrastructure and services; (iii) barriers and opportunities to funding rural and Tribal transportation projects; (iv) unique transportation barriers and challenges facing historically disadvantaged communities in rural and Tribal areas; and (v) unique environmental transportation issues for rural and Tribal communities; (B) evaluate data on rural and Tribal transportation challenges and determining methods to align the discretionary funding and financing opportunities of the Department with the needs of those communities for meeting national transportation goals; and (C) educate rural communities and Tribal communities about applicable Department discretionary grants, develop effective methods to evaluate projects in those communities in discretionary grant programs, and communicate those methods through program guidance. (c) Routes Council (1) In general The Secretary shall establish a Rural Opportunities to Use Transportation for Economic Success Council— (A) to organize, guide, and lead the ROUTES Office; and (B) to coordinate rural-related and Tribal-related funding programs and assistance among the modal administrations. (2) Membership (A) In general The ROUTES Council shall be composed of the following officers of the Department, or their designees: (i) The Under Secretary of Transportation for Policy. (ii) The General Counsel. (iii) The Chief Financial Officer and Assistant Secretary for Budget and Programs. (iv) The Assistant Secretary for Research and Technology. (v) The Assistant Secretary for Multimodal Freight. (vi) The Administrators of— (I) the Federal Aviation Administration; (II) the Federal Highway Administration; (III) the Federal Railroad Administration; and (IV) the Federal Transit Administration. (vii) The Executive Director of the Build America Bureau. (viii) The Assistant Secretary of Government Affairs. (B) Chair The Under Secretary of Transportation for Policy shall be the Chair of the ROUTES Council. (C) Additional members The Secretary or the Chair of the ROUTES Council may designate additional members to serve on the ROUTES Council. (3) Additional modal input To address issues related to safety and transport of rural and Tribal commodities, the ROUTES Council shall consult with the Administrators (or their designees) of— (A) the Maritime Administration; (B) the Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation; and (C) the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. (4) Duties Members of the ROUTES Council shall— (A) participate in all meetings and relevant ROUTES Council activities and be prepared to share information relevant to rural and Tribal transportation infrastructure projects and issues; (B) provide guidance and leadership on rural and Tribal transportation infrastructure issues and represent the work of the ROUTES Council and the Department on those issues to external stakeholders; and (C) recommend initiatives to the Chair of the ROUTES Council to consider, establish, and staff any resulting activities or working groups. (5) Meetings The ROUTES Council shall meet bimonthly. (6) Work products and deliverables The ROUTES Council may develop work products or deliverables to meet the goals of the ROUTES Council, including— (A) an annual report to Congress describing ROUTES Council activities for the past year and expected activities for the coming year; (B) any recommendations to enhance the effectiveness of Department discretionary grant programs regarding rural and Tribal infrastructure issues; and (C) other guides and reports for relevant groups and the public. 5011. Advanced transportation technologies deployment program Section 503 of title 23, United States Code, is amended— (1) in subsection (a)(2), by striking under section 508 under section 6503 of title 49 (2) in subsection (c)(4)— (A) in subparagraph (A), by striking and congestion management (B) in subparagraph (B)— (i) by redesignating clauses (i) through (viii) as clauses (vii) through (xiv), respectively; (ii) by inserting before clause (vii) (as so redesignated) the following: (i) improve the mobility of people and goods; (ii) reduce congestion; (iii) promote safety; (iv) improve the durability and extend the life of transportation infrastructure; (v) preserve the environment; (vi) preserve the existing transportation system; ; and (iii) in clause (xiv) (as so redesignated), by inserting vehicle-to-pedestrian, vehicle-to-infrastructure, (C) in subparagraph (C)(ii)— (i) in subclause (I), by striking and congestion management (ii) by striking subclause (II); (iii) by redesignating subclauses (III) through (V) as subclauses (II) through (IV), respectively; and (iv) in subclause (II) (as so redesignated), by striking efficiency and reduce traffic congestion (D) in subparagraph (E)— (i) in the matter preceding clause (i), by striking and congestion management (ii) in clause (viii), by striking or (iii) in clause (ix), by striking the period at the end and inserting ; or (iv) by adding at the end the following: (x) advanced transportation technologies, in accordance with the research areas described in section 6503 of title 49. ; (E) in subparagraph (I)(i), by striking 2016 through 2020 2022 through 2026 (F) in subparagraph (N)— (i) in the matter preceding clause (i), by striking , the following definitions apply (ii) by striking clause (ii) and inserting the following: (ii) Advanced transportation technology The term advanced transportation technology ; and (iii) in clause (iii), in the matter preceding subclause (I), by striking a any any 5012. Safety data initiative (a) Definition of eligible entity In this section, the term eligible entity (1) a State; (2) a unit of local government; (3) a transit agency or authority; (4) a metropolitan planning organization; (5) any other subdivision of a State or local government; (6) an institution of higher education; and (7) a multi-State or multijurisdictional group. (b) Safety data initiative (1) Establishment The Secretary shall establish an initiative, to be known as the Safety Data Initiative (2) Activities (A) Applied research (i) In general The Secretary shall support and carry out applied research to develop practices and products that will encourage the integration and use of traditional and new sources of safety data and safety information to improve policy and decisionmaking at the Federal, State, and local government levels. (ii) Methodology In carrying out clause (i), the Secretary may— (I) carry out demonstration programs; (II) award grants and provide incentives to eligible entities; (III) enter into partnerships with— (aa) eligible entities; (bb) private sector entities; and (cc) National Laboratories; and (IV) use any other tools, strategies, or methods that will result in the effective use of data and information for safety purposes. (B) Tools and practices In carrying out subparagraph (A), the Secretary, to the maximum extent practicable, shall— (i) develop safety analysis tools for State and local governments, with a particular focus on State and local governments with limited capacity to perform safety analysis; (ii) (I) identify innovative State and local government practices; (II) incubate those practices for further development; and (III) replicate those practices nationwide; and (iii) transfer to State and local governments the results of the applied research carried out under that subparagraph. (C) Data sharing (i) In general To inform the creation of information useful for safety policy and decisionmaking, the Secretary shall— (I) encourage the sharing of data between and among Federal, State, and local transportation agencies; and (II) leverage data from private sector entities. (ii) Goals The goals of the data-sharing activities under clause (i) shall include— (I) the creation of data ecosystems to reduce barriers to the efficient integration and analysis of relevant datasets for use by safety professionals; and (II) the establishment of procedures adequate to ensure sufficient security, privacy, and confidentiality as needed to promote the sharing of sensitive or proprietary data. (iii) Management of data ecosystems A data ecosystem described in clause (ii)(I) may be managed by— (I) the Director of the Bureau of Transportation Statistics; (II) 1 or more trusted third parties, as determined by the Secretary; or (III) 1 or more other entities or partnerships capable of securing, managing, and analyzing sensitive or proprietary data. (3) Plan (A) In general The Safety Data Initiative shall be carried out pursuant to a plan to be jointly established by— (i) the Under Secretary of Transportation for Policy; (ii) the Chief Information Officer of the Department; (iii) the Administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration; (iv) the Administrator of the Federal Highway Administration; (v) the Administrator of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration; (vi) the Administrator of the Federal Transit Administration; and (vii) the Administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration. (B) Requirement The plan established under subparagraph (A) shall include details regarding the means by which tools and innovations developed by projects carried out under the Safety Data Initiative will be transferred to the appropriate program of the Department for further implementation. (C) Deadline Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall direct the officials described in clauses (i) through (vii) of subparagraph (A) to establish, by a date determined by the Secretary, the plan referred to in that subparagraph. 5013. Advanced transportation research (a) In general Chapter 1 119. Advanced Research Projects Agency–Infrastructure (a) Definitions In this section: (1) ARPA–I The term ARPA–I (2) Department The term Department (3) Director The term Director (4) Eligible entity The term eligible entity (A) a unit of State or local government; (B) an institution of higher education; (C) a commercial entity; (D) a research foundation; (E) a trade or industry research collaborative; (F) a federally funded research and development center; (G) a research facility owned or funded by the Department; (H) a collaborative that includes relevant international entities; and (I) a consortia of 2 or more entities described in any of subparagraphs (A) through (H). (5) Infrastructure (A) In general The term infrastructure (B) Inclusions The term infrastructure (i) roads; (ii) highways; (iii) bridges; (iv) airports; (v) rail lines; (vi) harbors; and (vii) pipelines. (6) Secretary The term Secretary (b) Establishment There is established within the Department an agency, to be known as the Advanced Research Projects Agency–Infrastructure (1) to overcome long-term challenges; and (2) to advance the state of the art for United States transportation infrastructure. (c) Goals (1) In general The goals of ARPA–I shall be— (A) to advance the transportation infrastructure of the United States by developing innovative science and technology solutions that— (i) lower the long-term costs of infrastructure development, including costs of planning, construction, and maintenance; (ii) reduce the lifecycle impacts of transportation infrastructure on the environment, including through the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions; (iii) contribute significantly to improving the safe, secure, and efficient movement of goods and people; and (iv) promote the resilience of infrastructure from physical and cyber threats; and (B) to ensure that the United States is a global leader in developing and deploying advanced transportation infrastructure technologies and materials. (2) Research projects ARPA–I shall achieve the goals described in paragraph (1) providing assistance under this section for infrastructure research projects that— (A) advance novel, early-stage research with practicable application to transportation infrastructure; (B) translate techniques, processes, and technologies, from the conceptual phase to prototype, testing, or demonstration; (C) develop advanced manufacturing processes and technologies for the domestic manufacturing of novel transportation-related technologies; and (D) accelerate transformational technological advances in areas in which industry entities are unlikely to carry out projects due to technical and financial uncertainty. (d) Director (1) Appointment ARPA–I shall be headed by a Director, who shall be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. (2) Qualifications The Director shall be an individual who, by reason of professional background and experience, is especially qualified to advise the Secretary regarding, and manage research programs addressing, matters relating to the development of science and technology solutions to advance United States transportation infrastructure. (3) Relationship to Secretary The Director shall— (A) be located within the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Research and Technology; and (B) report to the Secretary. (4) Relationship to other programs No other program within the Department shall report to the Director. (5) Responsibilities The responsibilities of the Director shall include— (A) approving new programs within ARPA–I; (B) developing funding criteria, and assessing the success of programs, to achieve the goals described in subsection (c)(1) through the establishment of technical milestones; (C) administering available funding by providing to eligible entities assistance to achieve the goals described in subsection (c)(1); (D) terminating programs carried out under this section that are not achieving the goals of the programs; and (E) establishing a process through which eligible entities can submit to ARPA–I unsolicited research proposals for assistance under this section in accordance with subsection (f). (e) Personnel (1) In general The Director shall establish and maintain within ARPA–I a staff with sufficient qualifications and expertise to enable ARPA–I to carry out the responsibilities under this section, in conjunction with other operations of the Department. (2) Program directors (A) In general The Director shall designate employees to serve as program directors for ARPA–I. (B) Responsibilities Each program director shall be responsible for— (i) establishing research and development goals for the applicable program, including by convening workshops and conferring with outside experts; (ii) publicizing the goals of the applicable program; (iii) soliciting applications for specific areas of particular promise, especially in areas that the private sector or the Federal Government are not likely to carry out absent assistance from ARPA–I; (iv) establishing research collaborations for carrying out the applicable program; (v) selecting on the basis of merit each project to be supported under the applicable program, taking into consideration— (I) the novelty and scientific and technical merit of proposed projects; (II) the demonstrated capabilities of eligible entities to successfully carry out proposed projects; (III) the extent to which an eligible entity took into consideration future commercial applications of a proposed project, including the feasibility of partnering with 1 or more commercial entities; and (IV) such other criteria as the Director may establish; (vi) identifying innovative cost-sharing arrangements for projects carried out or funded by ARPA–I; (vii) monitoring the progress of projects supported under the applicable program; (viii) identifying mechanisms for commercial application of successful technology development projects, including through establishment of partnerships between eligible entities and commercial entities; and (ix) as applicable, recommending— (I) program restructuring; or (II) termination of applicable research partnerships or projects. (C) Term of service A program director— (i) shall serve for a term of 3 years; and (ii) may be reappointed for any subsequent term of service. (3) Hiring and management (A) In general The Director may— (i) make appointments of scientific, engineering, and professional personnel, without regard to the civil service laws; (ii) fix the basic pay of such personnel at such rate as the Director may determine, but not to exceed level II of the Executive Schedule, without regard to the civil service laws; and (iii) pay an employee appointed under this subparagraph payments in addition to basic pay, subject to the condition that the total amount of those additional payments for any 12-month period shall not exceed the least of— (I) $25,000; (II) an amount equal to 25 percent of the annual rate of basic pay of the employee; and (III) the amount of the applicable limitation for a calendar year under section 5307(a)(1) of title 5. (B) Private recruiting firms The Director may enter into a contract with a private recruiting firm for the hiring of qualified technical staff to carry out this section. (C) Additional staff The Director may use all authorities available to the Secretary to hire administrative, financial, and clerical staff, as the Director determines to be necessary to carry out this section. (f) Research proposals (1) In general To be eligible to receive assistance from ARPA–I, an eligible entity may submit to the Director an unsolicited research proposal at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Director may require, including a description of— (A) the extent of current and prior efforts with respect to the project proposed to be carried out using the assistance, if applicable; and (B) any current or prior investments in the technology area for which funding is requested, including as described in subsection (c)(2)(D). (2) Review The Director— (A) shall review each unsolicited research proposal submitted under paragraph (1), taking into consideration— (i) the novelty and scientific and technical merit of the research proposal; (ii) the demonstrated capabilities of the applicant to successfully carry out the research proposal; (iii) the extent to which the applicant took into consideration future commercial applications of the proposed research project, including the feasibility of partnering with 1 or more commercial entities; and (iv) such other criteria as the Director may establish; (B) may approve a research proposal if the Director determines that the research is in accordance with— (i) the goals described in subsection (c)(1); or (ii) an applicable transportation research and development strategic plan developed under section 6503; and (C) (i) if funding is denied for the research proposal, shall provide to the eligible entity that submitted the proposal a written notice of the denial that, as applicable— (I) explains why the research proposal was not selected, including whether the research proposal fails to cover an area of need; and (II) recommends that the research proposal be submitted to another research program; or (ii) if the research proposal is approved for funding, shall provide to the eligible entity that submitted the proposal— (I) a written notice of the approval; and (II) assistance in accordance with subsection (g) for the proposed research. (g) Forms of assistance On approval of a research proposal of an eligible entity under subsection (f)(2)(B), the Director may provide to the eligible entity assistance in the form of— (1) a grant; (2) a contract; (3) a cooperative agreement; (4) a cash prize; or (5) another, similar form of funding. (h) Reports and roadmaps (1) Annual reports For each fiscal year, the Director shall provide to the Secretary, for inclusion in the budget request submitted by the Secretary to the President under section 1108 of title 31 for the fiscal year, a report that, with respect to the preceding fiscal year, describes— (A) the projects that received assistance from ARPA–I, including— (i) each such project that was funded as a result of an unsolicited research proposal; and (ii) each such project that examines topics or technologies closely related to other activities funded by the Department, including an analysis of whether the Director achieved compliance with subsection (i)(1) in supporting the project; and (B) the instances of, and reasons for, the provision of assistance under this section for any projects being carried out by industry entities. (2) Strategic vision roadmap Not later than October 1, 2022, and not less frequently than once every 4 years thereafter, the Director shall submit to the relevant authorizing and appropriations committees of Congress a roadmap describing the strategic vision that ARPA–I will use to guide the selection of future projects for technology investment during the 4-fiscal-year period beginning on the date of submission of the report. (i) Coordination and nonduplication To the maximum extent practicable, the Director shall ensure that— (1) the activities of ARPA–I are coordinated with, and do not duplicate the efforts of, programs and laboratories within— (A) the Department; and (B) other relevant research agencies; and (2) no funding is provided by ARPA–I for a project, unless the eligible entity proposing the project— (A) demonstrates sufficient attempts to secure private financing; or (B) indicates that the project is not independently commercially viable. (j) Federal demonstration of technologies The Director shall seek opportunities to partner with purchasing and procurement programs of Federal agencies to demonstrate technologies resulting from activities funded through ARPA–I. (k) Partnerships The Director shall seek opportunities to enter into contracts or partnerships with minority-serving institutions (as described in any of paragraphs (1) through (7) of section 371(a) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 ( 20 U.S.C. 1067q(a) (1) to accomplish the goals of ARPA–I; (2) to develop institutional capacity in advanced transportation infrastructure technologies and materials; (3) to engage underserved populations in developing, demonstrating, and deploying those technologies and materials; and (4) to otherwise address the needs of ARPA–I. (l) University transportation centers The Director may— (1) partner with university transportation centers under section 5505 to accomplish the goals, and address the needs, of ARPA–I; and (2) sponsor and select for funding, in accordance with section 5505, competitively selected university transportation center grants, in addition to the assistance provided under section 5505, to address targeted technology and material goals of ARPA–I. (m) Advice (1) Advisory committees The Director may seek advice regarding any aspect of ARPA–I from— (A) an existing advisory committee, office, or other group within the Department; and (B) a new advisory committee organized to support the programs of ARPA–I by providing advice and assistance regarding— (i) specific program tasks; or (ii) the overall direction of ARPA–I. (2) Additional sources In carrying out this section, the Director may seek advice and review from— (A) the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology; (B) the Advanced Research Projects Agency–Energy; and (C) any professional or scientific organization with expertise relating to specific processes or technologies under development by ARPA–I. (n) Evaluation (1) In general Not later than December 27, 2024, the Secretary may enter into an arrangement with the National Academy of Sciences under which the National Academy shall conduct an evaluation of the achievement by ARPA–I of the goals described in subsection (c)(1). (2) Inclusions The evaluation under paragraph (1) may include— (A) a recommendation regarding whether ARPA–I should be continued; (B) a recommendation regarding whether ARPA–I, or the Department generally, should continue to allow entities to submit unsolicited research proposals; and (C) a description of— (i) the lessons learned from the operation of ARPA–I; and (ii) the manner in which those lessons may apply to the operation of other programs of the Department. (3) Availability On completion of the evaluation under paragraph (1), the evaluation shall be made available to— (A) Congress; and (B) the public. (o) Protection of information (1) In general Each type of information described in paragraph (2) that is collected by ARPA–I from eligible entities shall be considered to be— (A) commercial and financial information obtained from a person; (B) privileged or confidential; and (C) not subject to disclosure under section 552(b)(4) of title 5. (2) Description of types of information The types of information referred to in paragraph (1) are— (A) information relating to plans for commercialization of technologies developed using assistance provided under this section, including business plans, technology-to-market plans, market studies, and cost and performance models; (B) information relating to investments provided to an eligible entity from a third party (such as a venture capital firm, a hedge fund, and a private equity firm), including any percentage of ownership of an eligible entity provided in return for such an investment; (C) information relating to additional financial support that the eligible entity— (i) plans to invest, or has invested, in the technology developed using assistance provided under this section; or (ii) is seeking from a third party; and (D) information relating to revenue from the licensing or sale of a new product or service resulting from research conducted using assistance provided under this section. (p) Effect on existing authorities The authority provided by this section— (1) shall be in addition to any existing authority provided to the Secretary; and (2) shall not supersede or modify any other existing authority. (q) Funding (1) Authorization of appropriations There are authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary such sums as are necessary to carry out this section. (2) Separate budget and appropriation (A) Budget request The budget request for ARPA–I shall be separate from the budget request of the remainder of the Department. (B) Appropriations The funding appropriated for ARPA–I shall be separate and distinct from the funding appropriated for the remainder of the Department. (3) Allocation Of the amounts made available for a fiscal year under paragraph (1)— (A) not less than 5 percent shall be used for technology transfer and outreach activities— (i) in accordance with the goal described in subsection (c)(2)(D); and (ii) within the responsibilities of the program directors described in subsection (e)(2)(B)(viii); and (B) none may be used for the construction of any new building or facility during the 5-year period beginning on the date of enactment of the Surface Transportation Investment Act of 2021 . (b) Clerical amendment The analysis for chapter 1 119. Advanced Research Projects Agency–Infrastructure. . 5014. Open research initiative (a) In general Subchapter I of chapter 55 5506. Advanced transportation research initiative (a) Definition of eligible entity In this section, the term eligible entity (1) a State agency; (2) a local government agency; (3) an institution of higher education (as defined in section 102 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 ( 20 U.S.C. 1002 (4) a nonprofit organization, including a nonprofit research organization; and (5) a private sector organization working in collaboration with an entity described in any of paragraphs (1) through (4). (b) Pilot program The Secretary of Transportation (referred to in this section as the Secretary (1) shall establish a process for eligible entities to submit to the Secretary unsolicited research proposals; and (2) may enter into arrangements with 1 or more eligible entities to fund research proposed under paragraph (1), in accordance with this section. (c) Eligible research The Secretary may enter into an arrangement with an eligible entity under this section to fund research that addresses— (1) a research need identified by— (A) the Secretary; or (B) the Administrator of a modal administration of the Department of Transportation; or (2) an issue that the Secretary determines to be important. (d) Project review The Secretary shall— (1) review each research proposal submitted under the pilot program established under subsection (b); and (2) (A) if funding is denied for the research proposal— (i) provide to the eligible entity that submitted the proposal a written notice of the denial that, as applicable— (I) explains why the research proposal was not selected, including whether the research proposal fails to cover an area of need; and (II) recommends that the research proposal be submitted to another research program; and (ii) if the Secretary recommends that the research proposal be submitted to another research program under clause (i)(II), provide guidance and direction to— (I) the eligible entity; and (II) the proposed research program office; or (B) if the research proposal is selected for funding— (i) provide to the eligible entity that submitted the proposal a written notice of the selection; and (ii) seek to enter into an arrangement with the eligible entity to provide funding for the proposed research. (e) Coordination (1) In general To the maximum extent practicable, the Secretary shall ensure that the activities carried out under subsection (c) are coordinated with, and do not duplicate the efforts of, programs of the Department of Transportation and other Federal agencies. (2) Intraagency coordination The Secretary shall coordinate the research carried out under this section with— (A) the research, education, and technology transfer activities carried out by grant recipients under section 5505; and (B) the research, development, demonstration, and commercial application activities of other relevant programs of the Department of Transportation, including all modal administrations of the Department. (3) Interagency collaboration The Secretary shall coordinate, as appropriate, regarding fundamental research with the potential for application in the transportation sector with— (A) the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy; (B) the Director of the National Science Foundation; (C) the Secretary of Energy; (D) the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology; (E) the Secretary of Homeland Security; (F) the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration; (G) the Secretary of Defense; and (H) the heads of other appropriate Federal agencies, as determined by the Secretary. (f) Review, evaluation, and report Not less frequently than biennially, in accordance with the plan developed under section 6503, the Secretary shall— (1) review and evaluate the pilot program established under subsection (b), including the research carried out under that pilot program; and (2) make public on a website of the Department of Transportation a report describing the review and evaluation under paragraph (1). (g) Federal share (1) In general The Federal share of the cost of an activity carried out under this section shall not exceed 80 percent. (2) Non-Federal share All costs directly incurred by the non-Federal partners (including personnel, travel, facility, and hardware development costs) shall be credited toward the non-Federal share of the cost of an activity carried out under this section. (h) Limitation on certain expenses Of any amounts made available to carry out this section for a fiscal year, the Secretary may use not more than 1.5 percent for coordination, evaluation, and oversight activities under this section. (i) Authorization of appropriations Of the funds made available to carry out the university transportation centers program under section 5505, $50,000,000 shall be available to carry out this section for each of fiscal years 2022 through 2026. . (b) Clerical amendment The analysis for subchapter I of chapter 55 5506. Advanced transportation research initiative. . 5015. Transportation research and development 5-year strategic plan Section 6503 of title 49, United States Code, is amended— (1) in subsection (a), by striking The Secretary Not later than 180 days after the date of publication of the Department of Transportation Strategic Plan and not less frequently than once every 5 years thereafter, the Secretary (2) in subsection (b), in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking The strategic Each strategic (3) in subsection (c)— (A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking The strategic Each strategic (B) in paragraph (1)— (i) in subparagraph (E), by striking and (ii) in subparagraph (F), by adding and (iii) by adding at the end the following: (G) reducing transportation cybersecurity risks; ; (4) in subsection (d)— (A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking the strategic each strategic (B) in paragraph (4), by striking 2016 2021, and not less frequently than once every 5 years thereafter (5) by striking subsection (e). 5016. Research planning modifications (a) Annual modal research plans Section 6501 of title 49, United States Code, is amended— (1) in subsection (a)— (A) by striking paragraph (1) and inserting the following: (1) In general Not later than June 1 of each year, the head of each modal administration and joint program office of the Department of Transportation shall prepare and submit to the Assistant Secretary for Research and Technology of the Department of Transportation (referred to in this chapter as the Assistant Secretary (A) a comprehensive annual modal research plan for the following fiscal year; and (B) a detailed outlook for the fiscal year thereafter. ; (B) in paragraph (2), by inserting prepared or submitted (C) by redesignating paragraph (2) as paragraph (3); and (D) by inserting after paragraph (1) the following: (2) Requirements Each plan under paragraph (1) shall include— (A) a general description of the strategic goals of the Department that are addressed by the research programs being carried out by the Assistant Secretary or modal administration, as applicable; (B) a description of each proposed research program, as described in the budget request submitted by the Secretary of Transportation to the President under section 1108 of title 31 for the following fiscal year, including— (i) the major objectives of the program; and (ii) the requested amount of funding for each program and area; (C) a list of activities the Assistant Secretary or modal administration plans to carry out under the research programs described in subparagraph (B); (D) an assessment of the potential impact of the research programs described in subparagraph (B), including— (i) potential outputs, outcomes, and impacts on technologies and practices used by entities subject to the jurisdiction of the modal administration; (ii) potential effects on applicable regulations of the modal administration, including the modification or modernization of those regulations; (iii) potential economic or societal impacts; and (iv) progress made toward achieving strategic goals of— (I) the applicable modal administration; or (II) the Department of Transportation; (E) a description of potential partnerships to be established to conduct the research program, including partnerships with— (i) institutions of higher education; and (ii) private sector entities; and (F) such other requirements as the Assistant Secretary considers to be necessary. ; (2) in subsection (b)— (A) in paragraph (1)— (i) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by inserting by the head of a modal administration or joint program office submitted (ii) in subparagraph (B), by striking clause (ii) and inserting the following: (ii) request that the plan and outlook be— (I) revised in accordance with such suggestions as the Assistant Secretary shall include to ensure conformity with the criteria described in paragraph (2); and (II) resubmitted to the Assistant Secretary for approval. ; (B) by redesignating paragraphs (2) and (3) as paragraphs (3) and (4), respectively; (C) by inserting after paragraph (1) the following: (2) Criteria In conducting a review under paragraph (1)(A), the Assistant Secretary shall, with respect to the modal research plan that is the subject of the review— (A) take into consideration whether— (i) the plan contains research objectives that are consistent with the strategic research and policy objectives of the Department of Transportation included in the strategic plan required under section 6503; and (ii) the research programs described in the plan have the potential to benefit the safety, mobility, and efficiency of the United States transportation system; (B) identify and evaluate any potential opportunities for collaboration between or among modal administrations with respect to particular research programs described in the plan; (C) identify and evaluate whether other modal administrations may be better suited to carry out the research programs described in the plan; (D) assess whether any projects described in the plan are— (i) duplicative across modal administrations; or (ii) unnecessary; and (E) take into consideration such other criteria as the Assistant Secretary determines to be necessary. ; and (D) by adding at the end the following: (5) Savings clause Nothing in this subsection limits the ability of the head of a modal administration to comply with applicable law. ; and (3) in subsection (c), in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking subsection (b)(3) (b) Consolidated research database Section 6502(a) of title 49, United States Code, is amended by striking the subsection designation and heading and all that follows through subparagraph (B) of paragraph (2) and inserting the following: (a) Research abstract database (1) Submission Not later than September 1 of each year, the head of each modal administration and joint program office of the Department of Transportation shall submit to the Assistant Secretary, for review and public posting, a description of each proposed research project to be carried out during the following fiscal year, including— (A) proposed funding for any new projects; and (B) proposed additional funding for any existing projects. (2) Publication Not less frequently than annually, after receiving the descriptions under paragraph (1), the Assistant Secretary shall publish on a public website a comprehensive database including a description of all research projects conducted by the Department of Transportation, including research funded through university transportation centers under section 5505. (3) Contents The database published under paragraph (2) shall— (A) be delimited by research project; and (B) include a description of, with respect to each research project— (i) research objectives; (ii) the progress made with respect to the project, including whether the project is ongoing or complete; (iii) any outcomes of the project, including potential implications for policy, regulations, or guidance issued by a modal administration or the Department of Transportation; (iv) any findings of the project; (v) the amount of funds allocated for the project; and (vi) such other information as the Assistant Secretary determines to be necessary to address Departmental priorities and statutory mandates; . 5017. Incorporation of Department of Transportation research (a) In general Chapter 65 6504. Incorporation of Department of Transportation research (a) Review Not later than December 31, 2021, and not less frequently than once every 5 years thereafter, in concurrence with the applicable strategic plan under section 6503, the Secretary of Transportation shall— (1) conduct a review of research conducted by the Department of Transportation; and (2) to the maximum extent practicable and appropriate, identify modifications to laws, regulations, guidance, and other policy documents to incorporate any innovations resulting from the research described in paragraph (1) that have the potential to improve the safety or efficiency of the United States transportation system. (b) Requirements In conducting a review under subsection (a), the Secretary of Transportation shall— (1) identify any innovative practices, materials, or technologies that have demonstrable benefits to the transportation system; (2) determine whether the practices, materials, or technologies described in paragraph (1) require any statutory or regulatory modifications for adoption; and (3) (A) if modifications are determined to be required under paragraph (2), develop— (i) a proposal for those modifications; and (ii) a description of the manner in which any such regulatory modifications would be— (I) incorporated into the Unified Regulatory Agenda; or (II) adopted into existing regulations as soon as practicable; or (B) if modifications are determined not to be required under paragraph (2), develop a description of the means by which the practices, materials, or technologies described in paragraph (1) will otherwise be incorporated into Department of Transportation or modal administration policy or guidance, including as part of the Technology Transfer Program of the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Research and Technology. (c) Report On completion of each review under subsection (a), the Secretary of Transportation shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a report describing, with respect to the period covered by the report— (1) each new practice, material, or technology identified under subsection (b)(1); and (2) any statutory or regulatory modification for the adoption of such a practice, material, or technology that— (A) is determined to be required under subsection (b)(2); or (B) was otherwise made during that period. . (b) Clerical amendment The analysis for chapter 65 6504. Incorporation of Department of Transportation research. . 5018. University transportation centers program Section 5505 of title 49, United States Code, is amended— (1) in subsection (a)— (A) in paragraph (1), by inserting of Transportation, acting through the Assistant Secretary for Research and Technology (referred to in this section as the Secretary The Secretary (B) in paragraph (2)— (i) in subparagraph (B), by inserting multimodal critical (ii) in subparagraph (C), by inserting with respect to the matters described in subparagraphs (A) through (G) of section 6503(c)(1) transportation leaders (2) in subsection (b)— (A) in paragraph (2)(A), by striking for each of the transportation centers described under paragraphs (2), (3), and (4) of subsection (c) as a lead institution under this section, except as provided in subparagraph (B) (B) in paragraph (4)— (i) in subparagraph (A), by striking identified in chapter 65 described in subparagraphs (A) through (G) of section 6503(c)(1) (ii) in subparagraph (B), in the matter preceding clause (i), by striking the Assistant Secretary modal administrations the heads of the modal administrations of the Department of Transportation, (C) in paragraph (5)(B), in the matter preceding clause (i), by striking submit of the Senate make available to the public on a website of the Department of Transportation (3) in subsection (c)(3)(E)— (A) by inserting , including the cybersecurity implications of technologies relating to connected vehicles, connected infrastructure, and autonomous vehicles autonomous vehicles (B) by striking The Secretary (i) In general A regional university transportation center receiving a grant under this paragraph shall carry out research focusing on 1 or more of the matters described in subparagraphs (A) through (G) of section 6503(c)(1). (ii) Focused objectives The Secretary ; and (4) in subsection (d)— (A) in paragraph (2)— (i) in the paragraph heading, by striking Annual review Review (ii) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking annually biennially (iii) in subparagraph (B), by striking submit of the Senate make available to the public on a website of the Department of Transportation (B) in paragraph (3), by striking 2016 through 2020 2022 through 2026 5019. National travel and tourism infrastructure strategic plan Section 1431(e) of the FAST Act ( 49 U.S.C. 301 Public Law 114–94 (1) by redesignating paragraphs (1) through (7) as subparagraphs (A) though (G), respectively, and indenting appropriately; (2) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A) (as so redesignated)— (A) by striking Not later than 3 years after the date of enactment of this Act Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of the Surface Transportation Investment Act of 2021 (B) by striking plan that includes plan— (1) to develop an immediate-term and long-term strategy, including policy recommendations across all modes of transportation, for the Department and other agencies to use infrastructure investments to revive the travel and tourism industry and the overall travel and tourism economy in the wake of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID–19) pandemic; and (2) that includes ; and (3) in paragraph (2) (as so redesignated)— (A) in subparagraph (A) (as so redesignated), by inserting , including consideration of the impacts of the COVID–19 pandemic network (B) in subparagraph (D) (as so redesignated), by inserting of regional significance corridors (C) in subparagraph (F) (as so redesignated), by striking and (D) in subparagraph (G) (as so redesignated), by striking the period at the end and inserting ; and (E) by adding at the end the following: (H) an identification of possible infrastructure investments that create recovery opportunities for small, underserved, minority, and rural businesses in the travel and tourism industry, including efforts to preserve and protect the scenic, but often less-traveled, roads that promote tourism and economic development throughout the United States. . 5020. Local hiring preference for construction jobs (a) Authorization (1) In general A recipient or subrecipient of a grant provided by the Secretary under title 23 or 49, United States Code, may implement a local or other geographical or economic hiring preference relating to the use of labor for construction of a project funded by the grant, including prehire agreements, subject to any applicable State and local laws, policies, and procedures. (2) Treatment The use of a local or other geographical or economic hiring preference pursuant to paragraph (1) in any bid for a contract for the construction of a project funded by a grant described in paragraph (1) shall not be considered to unduly limit competition. (b) Workforce diversity report Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report describing methods— (1) to ensure preapprenticeship programs are established and implemented to meet the needs of employers in transportation and transportation infrastructure construction industries, including with respect to the formal connection of the preapprenticeship programs to registered apprenticeship programs; (2) to address barriers to employment (within the meaning of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act ( 29 U.S.C. 3101 (A) individuals who are former offenders (as defined in section 3 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act ( 29 U.S.C. 3102 (B) individuals with a disability (as defined in section 3 of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 ( 42 U.S.C. 12102 (C) individuals that represent populations that are traditionally underrepresented in the workforce; and (3) to encourage a recipient or subrecipient implementing a local or other geographical or economic hiring preference pursuant to subsection (a)(1) to establish, in coordination with nonprofit organizations that represent employees, outreach and support programs that increase diversity within the workforce, including expanded participation from individuals described in subparagraphs (A) through (C) of paragraph (2). (c) Model plan Not later than 1 year after the date of submission of the report under subsection (b), the Secretary shall establish, and publish on the website of the Department, a model plan for use by States, units of local government, and private sector entities to address the issues described in that subsection. 5021. Transportation workforce development (a) Assessment The Secretary shall enter into an arrangement with the National Academy of Sciences under which the National Academy shall develop and submit to the Secretary a workforce needs assessment that— (1) addresses— (A) the education and recruitment of technical workers for the intelligent transportation technologies and systems industry; (B) the development of a workforce skilled in various types of intelligent transportation technologies, components, infrastructure, and equipment, including with respect to— (i) installation; (ii) maintenance; (iii) manufacturing; (iv) operations, including data analysis and review; and (v) cybersecurity; and (C) barriers to employment in the intelligent transportation technologies and systems industry for— (i) individuals who are former offenders (as defined in section 3 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act ( 29 U.S.C. 3102 (ii) individuals with a disability (as defined in section 3 of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 ( 42 U.S.C. 12102 (iii) individuals that represent populations that are traditionally underrepresented in the workforce; and (2) includes recommendations relating to the issues described in paragraph (1). (b) Working group (1) Establishment The Secretary shall establish a working group, to be composed of— (A) the Secretary of Energy; (B) the Secretary of Labor; and (C) the heads of such other Federal agencies as the Secretary determines to be necessary. (2) Implementation plan (A) In general The working group established under paragraph (1) shall develop an intelligent transportation technologies and systems industry workforce development implantation plan. (B) Requirements The implementation plan under subparagraph (A) shall address any issues and recommendations included in the needs assessment under subsection (a), taking into consideration a whole-of-government approach with respect to— (i) using registered apprenticeship and preapprenticeship programs; and (ii) re-skilling workers who may be interested in working within the intelligent transportation technologies and systems industry. (3) Submission to Congress Not later than 1 year after the date of receipt of the needs assessment under subsection (a), the Secretary shall submit to Congress the implementation plan developed under paragraph (2). (c) Transportation workforce outreach program (1) In general Subchapter I of chapter 55 5507. Transportation workforce outreach program (a) In general The Secretary of Transportation (referred to in this section as the Secretary (b) Purposes The purpose of the campaigns carried out under the program under this section shall be— (1) to increase awareness of career opportunities in the transportation sector, including aviation pilots, safety inspectors, mechanics and technicians, air traffic controllers, flight attendants, truck and bus drivers, engineers, transit workers, railroad workers, and other transportation professionals; and (2) to target awareness of professional opportunities in the transportation sector to diverse segments of the population, including with respect to race, sex, ethnicity, ability (including physical and mental ability), and socioeconomic status. (c) Advertising The Secretary may use, or authorize the use of, amounts made available to carry out the program under this section for the development, production, and use of broadcast, digital, and print media advertising and outreach in carrying out a campaign under this section. (d) Funding The Secretary may use to carry out this section any amounts otherwise made available to the Secretary, not to exceed $5,000,000, for each of fiscal years 2022 through 2026. . (2) Clerical amendment The analysis for subchapter I of chapter 55 5507. Transportation workforce outreach program. . 5022. Intermodal Transportation Advisory Board repeal (a) In general Section 5502 of title 49, United States Code, is repealed. (b) Clerical amendment The analysis for subchapter I of chapter 55 5023. GAO cybersecurity recommendations (a) Cybersecurity risk management Not later than 3 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall implement the recommendation for the Department made by the Comptroller General of the United States in the report entitled Cybersecurity: Agencies Need to Fully Establish Risk Management Programs and Address Challenges (1) by developing a cybersecurity risk management strategy for the systems and information of the Department; (2) by updating policies to address an organization-wide risk assessment; and (3) by updating the processes for coordination between cybersecurity risk management functions and enterprise risk management functions. (b) Work roles Not later than 3 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall implement the recommendation of the Comptroller General of the United States in the report entitled Cybersecurity Workforce: Agencies Need to Accurately Categorize Positions to Effectively Identify Critical Staffing Needs (1) reviewing positions in the Department; and (2) assigning appropriate work roles in accordance with the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education Cybersecurity Workforce Framework. (c) GAO review (1) Report Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives a report that examines the approach of the Department to managing cybersecurity for the systems and information of the Department. (2) Contents The report under paragraph (1) shall include an evaluation of— (A) the roles, responsibilities, and reporting relationships of the senior officials of the Department with respect to cybersecurity at the components of the Department; (B) the extent to which officials of the Department— (i) establish requirements for, share information with, provide resources to, and monitor the performance of managers with respect to cybersecurity within the components of the Department; and (ii) hold managers accountable for cybersecurity within the components of the Department; and (C) other aspects of cybersecurity, as the Comptroller General of the United States determines to be appropriate. 5024. Volpe oversight (a) Financial management Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall implement the recommendations of the Inspector General of the Department included in the report entitled DOT Needs to Strengthen Its Oversight of IAAs With Volpe Volpe Center (b) GAO review (1) In general Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives a report that examines the surface transportation activities at the Volpe Center. (2) Contents The report under paragraph (1) shall include an evaluation of— (A) the amount of Department funding provided to the Volpe Center, as compared to other Federal and non-Federal research partners; (B) the process used by the Department to determine whether to work with the Volpe Center, as compared to any other Federal or non-Federal research partner; and (C) the extent to which the Department is collaborating with the Volpe Center to address research needs relating to emerging issues. VI Hazardous materials 6001. Authorization of appropriations Section 5128 of title 49, United States Code, is amended to read as follows: 5128. Authorization of appropriations (a) In general There are authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this chapter (except section 5107(e), 5108(g)(2), 5113, 5115, 5116, and 5119)— (1) $67,000,000 for fiscal year 2022; (2) $68,000,000 for fiscal year 2023; (3) $69,000,000 for fiscal year 2024; (4) $70,000,000 for fiscal year 2025; and (5) $71,000,000 for fiscal year 2026. (b) Hazardous Materials Emergency Preparedness Fund From the Hazardous Materials Preparedness Fund established under section 5116(h), the Secretary may expend, for each of fiscal years 2022 through 2026— (1) $39,050,000 to carry out section 5116(a); (2) $150,000 to carry out section 5116(e); (3) $625,000 to publish and distribute the Emergency Response Guidebook under section 5116(h)(3); and (4) $1,000,000 to carry out section 5116(i). (c) Hazardous materials training grants From the Hazardous Materials Emergency Preparedness Fund established pursuant to section 5116(h), the Secretary may expend $5,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2022 through 2026 to carry out section 5107(e). (d) Community safety grants Of the amounts made available under subsection (a) to carry out this chapter, the Secretary shall withhold $4,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2022 through 2026 to carry out section 5107(i). (e) Credits to appropriations (1) Expenses In addition to amounts otherwise made available to carry out this chapter, the Secretary may credit amounts received from a State, Indian tribe, or other public authority or private entity for expenses the Secretary incurs in providing training to the State, Indian tribe, authority or entity. (2) Availability of amounts Amounts made available under this section shall remain available until expended. . 6002. Assistance for local emergency response training grant program Section 5116 of title 49, United States Code, is amended— (1) in subsection (j), in the second sentence of the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking subsection (i) subsections (i) and (j) (2) by redesignating subsection (j) as subsection (k); and (3) by inserting after subsection (i) the following: (j) Alert grant program (1) Assistance for local emergency response training The Secretary shall establish a grant program to make grants to eligible entities described in paragraph (2)— (A) to develop a hazardous materials response training curriculum for emergency responders, including response activities for the transportation of crude oil, ethanol, and other flammable liquids by rail, consistent with the standards of the National Fire Protection Association; and (B) to make the training described in subparagraph (A) available in an electronic format. (2) Eligible entities An eligible entity referred to in paragraph (1) is a nonprofit organization that— (A) represents first responders or public official responsible for coordinating disaster response; and (B) is able to provide direct or web-based training to individuals responsible for responding to accidents and incidents involving hazardous materials. (3) Funding (A) In general To carry out the grant program under paragraph (1), the Secretary may use, for each fiscal year, any amounts recovered during such fiscal year from grants awarded under this section during a prior fiscal year. (B) Other hazardous material training activities For each fiscal year, after providing grants under paragraph (1), if funds remain available, the Secretary may use the amounts described in subparagraph (A)— (i) to make grants under— (I) subsection (a)(1)(C); (II) subsection (i); and (III) section 5107(e); (ii) to conduct monitoring and provide technical assistance under subsection (e); (iii) to publish and distribute the emergency response guide referred to in subsection (h)(3); and (iv) to pay administrative costs in accordance with subsection (h)(4). (C) Obligation limitation Notwithstanding any other provision of law, for each fiscal year, amounts described in subparagraph (A) shall not be included in the obligation limitation for the Hazardous Materials Emergency Preparedness grant program for that fiscal year. . 6003. Real-time emergency response information Section 7302 of the FAST Act ( 49 U.S.C. 20103 Public Law 114–94 (1) in subsection (a)— (A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act December 5, 2022 (B) in paragraph (1), by amending subparagraph (B) to read as follows: (B) to provide the electronic train consist information described in subparagraph (A) to authorized State and local first responders, emergency response officials, and law enforcement personnel that are involved in the response to, or investigation of, an accident, incident, or public health or safety emergency involving the rail transportation of hazardous materials; ; (C) by striking paragraph (2); (D) by redesignating paragraphs (3), (4), (5), (6), and (7) as paragraphs (2), (3), (4), (5), and (6), respectively; and (E) in paragraph (3), as redesignated, by striking paragraph (3) paragraph (2) (2) in subsection (b)— (A) by striking paragraphs (1) and (4); and (B) by redesignating paragraphs (2), (3), (5), (6), and (7) as paragraphs (1), (2), (3), (4), and (5), respectively; and (3) in subsection (c), by striking , as described in subsection (a)(1)(B),

Summary: Surface Transportation Investment Act of 2021 This bill reauthorizes and establishes Department of Transportation programs and requirements relating to freight transport, railways, and motor carriers, particularly with respect to passenger rail infrastructure and the overall safety of rail service, commercial trucking, highways, and motor vehicles. The bill also includes provisions to support technological research, hazardous material response, and evaluations of department programs.