23 U.S.C.
United States Code, 2012 Edition
Title 23 - HIGHWAYS
CHAPTER 4 - HIGHWAY SAFETY
From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov

CHAPTER 4—HIGHWAY SAFETY

Sec.
401.
Authority of the Secretary.
402.
Highway safety programs.
403.
Highway safety research and development.
404.
National Highway Safety Advisory Committee.
405.
National priority safety programs.
[406 to 408. Repealed.]
409.
Discovery and admission as evidence of certain reports and surveys.
[410, 411. Repealed.]
412.
Agency accountability.

        

Amendments

2012—Pub. L. 112–141, div. C, title I, §§31105(b), 31109(b)–(f), July 6, 2012, 126 Stat. 755–757, substituted “National priority safety programs” for “Occupant protection incentive grants” in item 405 and struck out items 406 “Safety belt performance grants”, 407 “Innovative project grants”, 408 “State traffic safety information system improvements”, 410 “Alcohol-impaired driving countermeasures”, and 411 “State highway safety data improvements”.

2005—Pub. L. 109–59, title II, §§2005(b), 2006(b), 2008(b), Aug. 10, 2005, 119 Stat. 1527, 1529, 1535, substituted “Safety belt performance grants” for “School bus driver training” in item 406 and “State traffic safety information system improvements” for “Alcohol traffic safety programs” in item 408 and added item 412.

1998—Pub. L. 105–178, title II, §§2003(a)(2), 2005(b), June 9, 1998, 112 Stat. 327, 334, substituted “Occupant protection incentive grants” for “Repealed” in item 405 and added item 411.

1991—Pub. L. 102–240, title I, §1035(b), title II, §2004(c), Dec. 18, 1991, 105 Stat. 1978, 2079, substituted “Discovery and admission” for “Admission” in item 409 and “Alcohol-impaired driving countermeasures” for “Drunk driving prevention programs” in item 410.

1988—Pub. L. 100–690, title IX, §9002(b), Nov. 18, 1988, 102 Stat. 4525, added item 410.

1987—Pub. L. 100–17, title I, §132(b), Apr. 2, 1987, 101 Stat. 170, added item 409.

1982—Pub. L. 97–364, title I, §101(b), Oct. 25, 1982, 96 Stat. 1740, added item 408.

1978—Pub. L. 95–599, title II, §208(b), Nov. 6, 1978, 92 Stat. 2732, added item 407.

1976—Pub. L. 94–280, title I, §135(d), May 5, 1976, 90 Stat. 442, substituted item 405 “Repealed” for “Federal-aid safer roads demonstration program”.

1975—Pub. L. 93–643, §126(b), Jan. 4, 1975, 88 Stat. 2291, added item 406.

1973—Pub. L. 93–87, title II, §230(b), Aug. 13, 1973, 87 Stat. 294, added item 405.

§401. Authority of the Secretary

The Secretary is authorized and directed to assist and cooperate with other Federal departments and agencies, State and local governments, private industry, and other interested parties, to increase highway safety. For the purposes of this chapter, the term “State” means any one of the fifty States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.

(Added Pub. L. 89–564, title I, §101, Sept. 9, 1966, 80 Stat. 731; amended Pub. L. 93–87, title II, §218, Aug. 13, 1973, 87 Stat. 290; Pub. L. 98–363, §3(b), July 17, 1984, 98 Stat. 436; Pub. L. 100–17, title I, §133(b)(19), Apr. 2, 1987, 101 Stat. 172.)

Amendments

1987—Pub. L. 100–17 inserted reference in second sentence to Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.

1984—Pub. L. 98–363 struck out “, except that all expenditures for carrying out this chapter in the Virgin Islands, Guam, and American Samoa shall be paid out of money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated” after “and American Samoa”.

1973—Pub. L. 93–87 inserted definition of “State” and provided that all expenditures for carrying out this chapter in the Virgin Islands, Guam, and American Samoa shall be paid out of money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated.

Effective Date of 1984 Amendment

Pub. L. 98–363, §3(c), July 17, 1984, 98 Stat. 436, provided that: “The amendments made by subsections (a) and (b) [amending this section and section 402 of this title] shall apply to fiscal years beginning after the date of enactment of this Act [July 17, 1984].”

Short Title of 1991 Amendment

Pub. L. 102–240, title II, §2001, Dec. 18, 1991, 105 Stat. 2070, provided that: “This part [part A (§§2001–2009) of title II of Pub. L. 102–240, amending sections 402, 403, and 410 of this title, enacting provisions set out as notes under sections 402, 403, and 410 of this title, and amending provisions set out below] may be cited as the ‘Highway Safety Act of 1991’.”

Short Title of 1988 Amendment

Pub. L. 100–690, title IX, §9001, Nov. 18, 1988, 102 Stat. 4521, provided that: “This subtitle [subtitle A (§§9001 to 9005) of title IX of Pub. L. 100–690, enacting section 410 of this title and provisions set out as notes under sections 403 and 410 of this title] may be cited as the ‘Drunk Driving Prevention Act of 1988’.”

Short Title of 1987 Amendment

Pub. L. 100–17, title II, §201, Apr. 2, 1987, 101 Stat. 218, provided that: “This title [amending sections 402 and 408 of this title and section 2314 of former Title 49, Transportation, enacting provisions set out as notes under this section, section 402 of this title, and section 2204 of former Title 49, and amending provisions set out as a note under this section] be cited as the ‘Highway Safety Act of 1987’.”

Short Title of 1983 Amendment

Pub. L. 97–424, title II, §201, Jan. 6, 1983, 96 Stat. 2137, provided that: “This title [amending section 402 of this title and enacting provisions set out as notes under this section and sections 130, 154, and 408 of this title] may be cited as the ‘Highway Safety Act of 1982’.”

Short Title of 1978 Amendment

Pub. L. 95–599, title II, §201, Nov. 6, 1978, 92 Stat. 2727, provided that: “This title [enacting section 407 of this title, amending sections 154 and 402 of this title, and enacting provisions set out as notes under this section and sections 130, 307, 402, and 403 of this title] may be cited as the ‘Highway Safety Act of 1978’.”

Short Title of 1976 Amendment

Pub. L. 94–280, title II, §201, May 5, 1976, 90 Stat. 451, provided that: “That title [amending sections 104, 151, 402, 404, and 406 of this title and provisions set out as a note under section 130 of this title and enacting provisions set out as notes under sections 127 and 402 of this title] may be cited as the ‘Highway Safety Act of 1976’.”

Short Title of 1973 Amendment

Pub. L. 93–87, title II, §201, Aug. 13, 1973, 87 Stat. 282, provided that: “This title [enacting sections 151 to 153 and 405 of this title, amending this section and sections 104 and 402 to 404 of this title, and enacting provisions set out as notes under this section and sections 130, 144, 151, 217, and 403 of this title] may be cited as the ‘Highway Safety Act of 1973’.”

Short Title of 1970 Amendment

Pub. L. 91–605, title II, §201, Dec. 31, 1970, 84 Stat. 1739, provided that: “This title [enacting sections 144 and 322 of this title, amending provisions set out as notes under this section and section 402 of this title, and enacting provisions set out as notes under this section and section 402 of this title] may be cited as the ‘Highway Safety Act of 1970’.”

Short Title

Pub. L. 89–564, title II, §208, Sept. 9, 1966, 80 Stat. 737, provided that: “This Act [enacting this chapter, amending sections 105 and 307 of this title, repealing sections 135 and 313 of this title, and enacting provisions set out as notes under this section and sections 303, 307, 402, and 403 of this title] may be cited as the ‘Highway Safety Act of 1966’.”

Wildlife Vehicle Collision Reduction Study

Pub. L. 109–59, title I, §1119(n), Aug. 10, 2005, 119 Stat. 1190, provided that:

“(1) In general.—The Secretary [of Transportation] shall conduct a study of methods to reduce collisions between motor vehicles and wildlife (in this subsection referred to as ‘wildlife vehicle collisions’).

“(2) Contents.—

“(A) Areas of study.—The study shall include an assessment of the causes and impacts of wildlife vehicle collisions and solutions and best practices for reducing such collisions.

“(B) Methods for conducting the study.—In carrying out the study, the Secretary shall—

“(i) conduct a thorough literature review; and

“(ii) survey current practices of the Department of Transportation.

“(3) Consultation.—In carrying out the study, the Secretary shall consult with appropriate experts in the field of wildlife vehicle collisions.

“(4) Report.—

“(A) In general.—Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act [Aug. 10, 2005], the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report on the results of the study.

“(B) Contents.—The report shall include a description of each of the following:

“(i) Causes of wildlife vehicle collisions.

“(ii) Impacts of wildlife vehicle collisions.

“(iii) Solutions to and prevention of wildlife vehicle collisions.

“(5) Manual.—

“(A) Development.—Based upon the results of the study, the Secretary shall develop a best practices manual to support State efforts to reduce wildlife vehicle collisions.

“(B) Availability.—The manual shall be made available to States not later than 1 year after the date of transmission of the report under paragraph (4).

“(C) Contents.—The manual shall include, at a minimum, the following:

“(i) A list of best practices addressing wildlife vehicle collisions.

“(ii) A list of information, technical, and funding resources for addressing wildlife vehicle collisions.

“(iii) Recommendations for addressing wildlife vehicle collisions.

“(iv) Guidance for developing a State action plan to address wildlife vehicle collisions.

“(6) Training.—Based upon the manual developed under paragraph (5), the Secretary shall develop a training course on addressing wildlife vehicle collisions for transportation professionals.”

Worker Injury Prevention and Free Flow of Vehicular Traffic

Pub. L. 109–59, title I, §1402, Aug. 10, 2005, 119 Stat. 1227, provided that: “Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act [Aug. 10, 2005], the Secretary [of Transportation] shall issue regulations to decrease the likelihood of worker injury and maintain the free flow of vehicular traffic by requiring workers whose duties place them on or in close proximity to a Federal-aid highway (as defined in section 101 of title 23, United States Code) to wear high visibility garments. The regulations may also require such other worker-safety measures for workers with those duties as the Secretary determines to be appropriate.”

Roadway Safety Improvements for Older Drivers and Pedestrians

Pub. L. 109–59, title I, §1405, Aug. 10, 2005, 119 Stat. 1230, provided that:

“(a) In General.—The Secretary [of Transportation] shall carry out a program to improve traffic signs and pavement markings in all States (as such term is defined in section 101 of title 23, United States Code) in a manner consistent with the recommendations included in the publication of the Federal Highway Administration entitled ‘Guidelines and Recommendations to Accommodate Older Drivers and Pedestrians (FHWA–RD–01–103)’ and dated October 2001.

“(b) Federal Share.—The Federal share of the cost of a project carried out under this section shall be determined in accordance with section 120 of title 23, United States Code.

“(c) Authorization of Appropriations.—There is authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out this section for each of fiscal years 2005 through 2009.”

Work Zone Safety Grants

Pub. L. 109–59, title I, §1409(a)–(c), Aug. 10, 2005, 119 Stat. 1232, provided that:

“(a) In General.—The Secretary [of Transportation] shall establish and implement a work zone safety grant program under which the Secretary may make grants to nonprofit organizations and not-for-profit organizations to provide training to prevent or reduce highway work zone injuries and fatalities.

“(b) Eligible Activities.—Grants may be made under the program for the following purposes:

“(1) Training for construction craft workers on the prevention of injuries and fatalities in highway and road construction.

“(2) Development of guidelines for the prevention of highway work zone injuries and fatalities.

“(3) Training for State and local government transportation agencies and other groups implementing guidelines for the prevention of highway work zone injuries and fatalities.

“(c) Funding.—

“(1) In general.—There is authorized to be appropriated from the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account) to carry out this section $5,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2006 through 2009.

“(2) Contract authority.—Funds authorized by this subsection shall be available for obligation in the same manner as if the funds were apportioned under chapter 1 of title 23, United States Code; except that such funds shall not be transferable.”

Prohibition on Other Uses

Pub. L. 112–141, div. C, title I, §31101(b), July 6, 2012, 126 Stat. 733, provided that: “Except as otherwise provided in chapter 4 of title 23, United States Code, in this subtitle [subtitle A (§§31101–31109) of title I of div. C of Pub. L. 112–141, see Tables for classification], and in the amendments made by this subtitle, the amounts made available from the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account) for a program under such chapter—

“(1) shall only be used to carry out such program; and

“(2) may not be used by States or local governments for construction purposes.”

Pub. L. 109–59, title II, §2001(b), Aug. 10, 2005, 119 Stat. 1520, provided that: “Except as otherwise provided in chapter 4 of title 23, United States Code, and this title [enacting section 412 of this title and section 39 of Title 18, Crimes and Criminal Procedure, amending sections 402 to 406, 408, and 410 of this title, and enacting provisions set out as notes under sections 402, 403, 405, and 410 of this title], (including the amendments made by this title), the amounts made available from the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account) for a program under such chapter shall only be used to carry out such program and may not be used by States or local governments for construction purposes.”

Use of Uniformed Police Officers on Federal-Aid Highway Construction Projects

Pub. L. 105–178, title I, §1213(c), June 9, 1998, 112 Stat. 200, provided that:

“(1) Study.—In consultation with the States, State transportation departments, and law enforcement organizations, the Secretary shall conduct a study on the extent and effectiveness of use by States of uniformed police officers on Federal-aid highway construction projects.

“(2) Report.—Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act [June 9, 1998], the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report on the results of the study, including any legislative and administrative recommendations of the Secretary.”

Radio and Microwave Technology for Motor Vehicle Safety Warning System

Pub. L. 104–59, title III, §358(c), Nov. 28, 1995, 109 Stat. 625, provided that:

“(1) Study.—The Secretary, in consultation with the Federal Communications Commission and the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, shall conduct a study to develop and evaluate radio and microwave technology for a motor vehicle safety warning system in furtherance of safety in all types of motor vehicles.

“(2) Equipment.—Equipment developed under the study shall be directed toward, but not limited to, advance warning to operators of all types of motor vehicles of—

“(A) temporary obstructions in a highway;

“(B) poor visibility and highway surface conditions caused by adverse weather; and

“(C) movement of emergency vehicles.

“(3) Safety applications.—In conducting the study, the Secretary shall determine whether the technology described in this subsection has other appropriate safety applications.”

Work Zone Safety Program

Pub. L. 109–59, title I, §1410, Aug. 10, 2005, 119 Stat. 1233, provided that:

“(a) Grants.—The Secretary [of Transportation] shall make grants for fiscal years 2006 through 2009 to a national nonprofit foundation for the operation of the National Work Zone Safety Information Clearinghouse, authorized by section 358(b)(2) of Public Law 104–59 [set out below], created for the purpose of assembling and disseminating, by electronic and other means, information relating to improvement of roadway work zone safety.

“(b) Authorization of Appropriations.—There is authorized to be appropriated out of the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account) to carry out this section $1,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2006 through 2009.

“(c) Contract Authority.—Funds authorized by this subsection shall be available for obligation in the same manner as if the funds were apportioned under chapter 1 of title 23, United States Code, except the Federal share of the cost of activities carried out using such funds shall be 100 percent, and such funds shall remain available until expended and shall not be transferable.”

Pub. L. 104–59, title III, §358(b), Nov. 28, 1995, 109 Stat. 625, provided that: “In carrying out the work zone safety program under section 1051 of the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 [Pub. L. 102–240] (23 U.S.C. 401 note; 105 Stat. 2001), the Secretary shall utilize a variety of methods to increase safety at highway construction sites, including each of the following:

“(1) Conducting conferences to explore new techniques and stimulate dialogue for improving work zone safety.

“(2) Establishing a national clearinghouse to assemble and disseminate, by electronic and other means, information relating to the improvement of work zone safety.

“(3) Conducting a national promotional campaign in cooperation with the States to provide timely, site-specific information to motorists when construction workers are actually present.

“(4) Encouraging the use of enforceable speed limits in work zones.

“(5) Developing training programs for work site designers and construction workers to promote safe work zone practices.

“(6) Encouraging the use of unit price bid items in contracts for traffic control devices and implementation of traffic control plans.”

Pub. L. 102–240, title I, §1051, Dec. 18, 1991, 105 Stat. 2001, provided that: “The Secretary shall develop and implement a work zone safety program which will improve work zone safety at highway construction sites by enhancing the quality and effectiveness of traffic control devices, safety appurtenances, traffic control plans, and bidding practices for traffic control devices and services.”

Older Drivers and Other Special Driver Groups

Pub. L. 104–59, title III, §358(a), Nov. 28, 1995, 109 Stat. 625, provided that:

“(1) Study.—The Secretary shall conduct a study of technologies and practices to improve the driving performance of older drivers and other special driver groups.

“(2) Demonstration activities.—In conducting the study under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall undertake demonstration activities that incorporate and build upon gerontology research related to the study of the normal aging process. The Secretary shall initially implement such activities in those States that have the highest population of aging citizens for whom driving a motor vehicle is their primary mobility mode.

“(3) Cooperative agreement.—The Secretary shall conduct the study under paragraph (1) by entering into a cooperative agreement with an institution that has demonstrated competencies in gerontological research, population demographics, human factors related to transportation, and advanced technology applied to transportation.”

Pub. L. 100–17, title II, §208, Apr. 2, 1987, 101 Stat. 222, as amended by Pub. L. 100–202, §101(l) [title III, §348(h)], Dec. 22, 1987, 101 Stat. 1329–358, 1329–389, directed Secretary to enter into appropriate arrangements with National Academy of Sciences to conduct a comprehensive study and investigation of (1) problems which could inhibit the safety and mobility of older drivers using the Nation's roads, and (2) means of addressing these problems, to request the Academy to report to Secretary and Congress not later than 24 months after Apr. 2, 1987, on the results of such study and investigation, to furnish to the Academy any information which it deems necessary for conducting the investigation and study, and to develop, in conjunction with the study, a pilot program of highway safety improvements to enhance the safety and mobility of older drivers and, not later than 3 years after Apr. 2, 1987, to evaluate the pilot program and report to Congress on the effectiveness of the program in improving the safety and mobility of older drivers.

Annual Report by Secretary of Transportation on Highway Safety Performance of Each State

Pub. L. 97–424, title II, §207, Jan. 6, 1983, 96 Stat. 2139, provided that: “The Secretary of Transportation shall prepare, publish, and submit to Congress not later than December 31 of each calendar year beginning after December 31, 1982, a report on the highway safety performance of each State in the preceding calendar year. Such report shall provide data on highway fatalities and injuries and motor vehicle accidents involving fatalities and injuries and travel in urban areas of each State for each system of highways and in rural areas of such State for each system of highways. Such report shall be in such form and contain such other information on highway accidents as will permit an evaluation and comparison of highway safety performance of the States. For purposes of this section (1) the systems of highways in a State are the Federal-aid primary system, the Federal-aid secondary system, the Federal-aid urban system, and the Interstate System (as such terms are defined in section 101 of title 23, United States Code) and the other highways in such State which are not on the Federal-aid system, and (2) the terms ‘State’, ‘rural areas’, and ‘urban area’ have the meaning such terms have under section 101.”

[For termination, effective May 15, 2000, of provisions relating to submittal of report to Congress in section 207 of Pub. L. 97–424, set out above, see section 3003 of Pub. L. 104–66, as amended, set out as a note under section 1113 of Title 31, Money and Finance, and page 136 of House Document No. 103–7.]

National Driver Registration

Pub. L. 97–364, title II, §§201–211, Oct. 25, 1982, 96 Stat. 1740–1748, as amended by Pub. L. 100–223, title III, §305, Dec. 30, 1987, 101 Stat. 1525; Pub. L. 100–342, §4(b), June 22, 1988, 102 Stat. 626; Pub. L. 101–380, title IV, §4105(a), Aug. 18, 1990, 104 Stat. 512; Pub. L. 102–240, title II, §2007, Dec. 18, 1991, 105 Stat. 2080, directed Secretary of Transportation to establish and maintain a National Driver Register to assist States in exchange of information on motor vehicle driving records of individuals and provided for reports by State officials, accessibility of Register information, a pilot test program, criminal penalties, an advisory committee, and a report to Congress by the Secretary, prior to repeal by Pub. L. 103–272, §7(b), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1379, and Pub. L. 103–429, §8(10), Oct. 31, 1994, 108 Stat. 4390, and was restated in part in chapter 303 of Title 49, Transportation.

Pilot Projects for Highway Safety Education and Information

Pub. L. 95–599, title II, §209, Nov. 6, 1978, 92 Stat. 2732, as amended by Pub. L. 97–424, title II, §206, Jan. 6, 1983, 96 Stat. 2139; Pub. L. 100–17, title II, §207, Apr. 2, 1987, 101 Stat. 221, provided that:

“(a) The Secretary of Transportation shall carry out six pilot projects designed, through the use of television and radio, to develop and evaluate techniques, methods, and practices to achieve maximum measurable effectiveness in reducing traffic accidents, injuries, and deaths.

“(b) Each pilot project authorized by this section shall be in operation not later than the one hundred and eightieth day after the date of the first appropriation of funds made under authority of this section, and shall be conducted for a one-year period. Not later than the ninetieth day after the end of each such one-year period, the Secretary of Transportation shall report to Congress the results of such project, including, but not limited to, an evaluation of the effectiveness of such project and a statistical analysis of the traffic accidents and fatalities within the project area during such one-year period.

“(c) There is authorized to be appropriated, out of the Highway Trust Fund, to carry out subsections (a) and (b) of this section, $6,000,000, to remain available until expended.

“(d) National Highway Safety Campaign.—Utilizing those techniques, methods, and practices determined most effective under subsection (b), the Secretary of Transportation shall conduct a national highway safety campaign utilizing the local and national television and radio to educate and inform the public of techniques, methods, and practices to reduce the number and severity of highway accidents. Not later than the 180th day after the date of submission of the first report to Congress required by subsection (b) of this section, the Secretary shall commence the conduct of such campaign.

“(e) Such campaign is authorized to be conducted in cooperation with interested government and nongovernment authorities, agencies, organizations, institutions, businesses, and individuals, and shall utilize to the extent possible nongovernmental professional organizations equipped and experienced to conduct such campaign.

“(f) The Secretary of Transportation shall engage such private firms or organizations as he determines necessary to conduct an on-going evaluation of the national campaign authorized by subsection (d) of this section to determine ways and means for encouraging the participation and cooperation of television and radio station licensees, for measuring audience reactions to on-going highway safety programming for evaluating the effectiveness of such programs in terms of the number of lives saved and the reduction in injuries, and for the purpose of developing new programs for the promotion of highway safety. Such evaluation shall include determinations of those programs designed to encourage the voluntary use of safety belts which are most effective and shall include recommendations for new methods and approaches which will result in greater voluntary utilization of safety belts by the public.

“(g) The Secretary of Transportation shall submit a report to the Congress on July 1 of each year in which the campaign is in progress on the results of such evaluation and on the steps being taken by the Secretary of Transportation to implement the recommendations of such evaluation.

“(h) For the purpose of carrying out subsections (d), (e), (f), and (g) of this section, there is authorized to be appropriated out of the Highway Trust Fund, $10,000,000, to remain available until expended. None of the amounts authorized by this subsection shall be available for obligation for any education or information program conducted in connection with the implementation of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 208 (49 C.F.R. 571.208).

“(i) All provisions of chapter 1 of title 23, United States Code, that are applicable to Federal-aid primary highway funds, other than provisions relating to the apportionment formula and provisions limiting the expenditure of such funds to the Federal-aid systems, shall apply to the funds authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section, except as determined by the Secretary to be inconsistent with this section and except that the funds authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section shall not be subject to any obligation limitation.”

[For termination, effective May 15, 2000, of provisions of law requiring submittal to Congress of any annual, semiannual, or other regular periodic report listed in House Document No. 103–7 (in which a report required under section 209(g) of Pub. L. 95–599, set out above, is listed on page 139), see section 3003 of Pub. L. 104–66, as amended, set out as a note under section 1113 of Title 31, Money and Finance.]

Highway Safety Educational Programing and Study; Report to Congress; Series of Highway Safety Television Programs; Appropriations Authorizations

Pub. L. 93–87, title II, §211, Aug. 13, 1973, 87 Stat. 288, directed Secretary of Transportation, in cooperation with government and nongovernment authorities and individuals, to conduct a full and complete investigation and study of use of mass media for informing and educating the public of ways and means for reducing number and severity of highway accidents, to report to Congress his findings and recommendations by June 30, 1974, and to develop, in consultation with State and local highway safety officials, a series of highway safety television programs of varying lengths for use in accordance with provisions of the Communication Act of 1934 (47 U.S.C. 151 et seq.).

Highway Safety Citizen Participation Study

Pub. L. 93–87, title II, §212, Aug. 13, 1973, 87 Stat. 289, authorized the appropriation of $1,000,000 for a study by the Secretary of Transportation, with cooperation of State and local highway safety authorities, of ways and means of encouraging greater citizen participation in highway safety programs, the results of such study and recommendations to be reported to Congress by June 30, 1974.

National Center for Statistical Analysis of Highway Operations

Pub. L. 93–87, title II, §213, Aug. 13, 1973, 87 Stat. 289, authorized the appropriation of $5,000,000 to make a study of the feasibility of establishing a National Center for Statistical Analysis of Highway Operations designed to acquire, store and retrieve accident data, the results of such study and recommendations to be reported to Congress not later than Jan. 1, 1975.

Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Study

Pub. L. 93–87, title II, §214, Aug. 13, 1973, 87 Stat. 289, authorized the appropriation of $5,000,000 for a study of pedestrian and bicycle safety, including a review of local ordinances, the relationship between alcohol and pedestrian and bicycle safety, etc., the results of such study and recommendations to be reported to Congress not later than Jan. 31, 1975.

Highway Safety Needs Study

Pub. L. 93–87, title II, §225, Aug. 13, 1973, 87 Stat. 292, mandated a study by the Secretary of Transportation of highway safety needs of the States, including those of Puerto Rico, the District of Columbia, Guam, American Samoa, the Virgin Islands and other territories, in order to evaluate continuing safety programs and furnish Congress with information necessary for authorization of appropriations for continuing safety programs, the results of such study, estimates and recommendations to be submitted to Congress not later than Jan. 10, 1976.

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration; Creation; Appointment of Administrator and Deputy Administrator; Duties; Retroactive Effect

Pub. L. 89–564, title II, §201, Sept. 9, 1966, 80 Stat. 735, as amended by Pub. L. 89–670, §8(h), Oct. 15, 1966, 80 Stat. 943; Pub. L. 90–83, §10(b), Sept. 11, 1967, 81 Stat. 224; Pub. L. 91–605, title II, §202(a), Dec. 31, 1970, 84 Stat. 1739, which provided for the creation of National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in the Department of Transportation, was repealed by Pub. L. 97–449, §7(b), Jan. 12, 1983, 96 Stat. 2444, and reenacted by section 1(b) of Pub. L. 97–449 as section 105 of Title 49, Transportation.

Acting Administrator of National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

Pub. L. 91–605, title II, §202(b), Dec. 31, 1970, 84 Stat. 1740, permitted President to authorize any person who immediately before Dec. 31, 1970, held the office of Director of the National Highway Safety Bureau, to act as Administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration until the appointment of the first Administrator.

Annual Report to Congress on Administration of Highway Safety Act of 1966

Pub. L. 89–564, title II, §202, Sept. 9, 1966, 80 Stat. 736, as amended by Pub. L. 93–87, title II, §224, Aug. 13, 1973, 87 Stat. 292, provided that:

“(a) The Secretary shall prepare and submit to the President for transmittal to the Congress on July 1 of each year a comprehensive report on the administration of the Highway Safety Act of 1966 (including chapter 4 of title 23 of the United States Code) for the preceding calendar year. Such report should include but not be restricted to (1) a thorough statistical compilation of the accidents and injuries occurring in such year; (2) a list of all safety standards issued or in effect in such year; (3) the scope of observance of applicable Federal standards; (4) a statement of enforcement actions including judicial decisions, settlements, or pending litigation during the year; (5) a summary of all current research grants and contracts together with a description of the problems to be considered by such grants and contracts; (6) an analysis and evaluation of completed research activities and technological progress achieved during such year together with the relevant policy recommendations flowing therefrom: (7) the effectiveness of State highway safety program (including local highway safety programs) and (8) the extent to which technical information was being disseminated to the scientific community and consumer-oriented material was made available to the motoring public.

“(b) The annual report shall also contain such recommendations for additional legislation as the Secretary deems necessary to promote cooperation among the several States in the improvement of highway safety and to strengthen the national highway safety program.”

[For termination, effective May 15, 2000, of provisions relating to transmittal of report to Congress in section 202 of Pub. L. 89–564, set out above, see section 3003 of Pub. L. 104–66, as amended, set out as a note under section 1113 of Title 31, Money and Finance, and page 135 of House Document No. 103–7.]

Detailed Cost Estimate of Highway Safety Act of 1966

Pub. L. 89–564, title II, §207, Sept. 9, 1966, 80 Stat. 737, directed Secretary, in cooperation with the Governors of appropriate State highway safety agencies, make a detailed estimate of the cost of carrying out the Highway Safety Act of 1966 in order to provide a basis for evaluating continuing programs under the Act and to furnish Congress information necessary for authorization of appropriations for fiscal years beginning after June 30, 1969, such estimates to be submitted to Congress not later than Jan. 10, 1968.

Interstate Compacts for Highway Safety

Pub. L. 85–684, Aug. 20, 1958, 72 Stat. 635, as amended by Pub. L. 88–466, Aug. 20 1964, 78 Stat. 564, provided: “That the consent of Congress is hereby given to any two or more of the several States, and one or more of the several States and the District of Columbia, to enter into agreements or compacts—

“(1) for cooperative effort and mutual assistance in the establishment and carrying out of traffic safety programs, including, but not limited to, the enactment of uniform traffic laws, driver education and training, coordination of traffic law enforcement, research into safe automobile and highway design, and research programs of the human factors affecting traffic safety, and

“(2) for the establishment of such agencies, joint or otherwise, as they deem desirable for the establishment and carrying out of such traffic safety programs.”

§402. Highway safety programs

(a) Program Required.—

(1) In general.—Each State shall have a highway safety program, approved by the Secretary, that is designed to reduce traffic accidents and the resulting deaths, injuries, and property damage.

(2) Uniform guidelines.—Programs required under paragraph (1) shall comply with uniform guidelines, promulgated by the Secretary and expressed in terms of performance criteria, that—

(A) include programs—

(i) to reduce injuries and deaths resulting from motor vehicles being driven in excess of posted speed limits;

(ii) to encourage the proper use of occupant protection devices (including the use of safety belts and child restraint systems) by occupants of motor vehicles;

(iii) to reduce injuries and deaths resulting from persons driving motor vehicles while impaired by alcohol or a controlled substance;

(iv) to prevent accidents and reduce injuries and deaths resulting from accidents involving motor vehicles and motorcycles;

(v) to reduce injuries and deaths resulting from accidents involving school buses;

(vi) to reduce accidents resulting from unsafe driving behavior (including aggressive or fatigued driving and distracted driving arising from the use of electronic devices in vehicles); and

(vii) to improve law enforcement services in motor vehicle accident prevention, traffic supervision, and post-accident procedures;


(B) improve driver performance, including—

(i) driver education;

(ii) driver testing to determine proficiency to operate motor vehicles; and

(iii) driver examinations (physical, mental, and driver licensing);


(C) improve pedestrian performance and bicycle safety;

(D) include provisions for—

(i) an effective record system of accidents (including resulting injuries and deaths);

(ii) accident investigations to determine the probable causes of accidents, injuries, and deaths;

(iii) vehicle registration, operation, and inspection; and

(iv) emergency services; and


(E) to the extent determined appropriate by the Secretary, are applicable to federally administered areas where a Federal department or agency controls the highways or supervises traffic operations.


(b) Administration of State Programs.—

(1) Administrative requirements.—The Secretary may not approve a State highway safety program under this section which does not—

(A) provide that the Governor of the State shall be responsible for the administration of the program through a State highway safety agency which shall have adequate powers and be suitably equipped and organized to carry out, to the satisfaction of the Secretary, such program;

(B) authorize political subdivisions of the State to carry out local highway safety programs within their jurisdictions as a part of the State highway safety program if such local highway safety programs are approved by the Governor and are in accordance with the minimum standards established by the Secretary under this section;

(C) except as provided in paragraph (3), provide that at least 40 percent of all Federal funds apportioned under this section to the State for any fiscal year will be expended by the political subdivisions of the State, including Indian tribal governments, in carrying out local highway safety programs authorized in accordance with subparagraph (B);

(D) provide adequate and reasonable access for the safe and convenient movement of individuals with disabilities, including those in wheelchairs, across curbs constructed or replaced on or after July 1, 1976, at all pedestrian crosswalks throughout the State;

(E) beginning on the first day of the first fiscal year after the date of enactment of the Motor Vehicle and Highway Safety Improvement Act of 2012 in which a State submits its highway safety plan under subsection (f), provide for a data-driven traffic safety enforcement program to prevent traffic violations, crashes, and crash fatalities and injuries in areas most at risk for such incidents, to the satisfaction of the Secretary;

(F) provide satisfactory assurances that the State will implement activities in support of national highway safety goals to reduce motor vehicle related fatalities that also reflect the primary data-related crash factors within a State as identified by the State highway safety planning process, including—

(i) national law enforcement mobilizations and high-visibility law enforcement mobilizations coordinated by the Secretary;

(ii) sustained enforcement of statutes addressing impaired driving, occupant protection, and driving in excess of posted speed limits;

(iii) an annual statewide safety belt use survey in accordance with criteria established by the Secretary for the measurement of State safety belt use rates to ensure that the measurements are accurate and representative;

(iv) development of statewide data systems to provide timely and effective data analysis to support allocation of highway safety resources; and

(v) ensuring that the State will coordinate its highway safety plan, data collection, and information systems with the State strategic highway safety plan (as defined in section 148(a)).


(2) Waiver.—The Secretary may waive the requirement of paragraph (1)(C), in whole or in part, for a fiscal year for any State whenever the Secretary determines that there is an insufficient number of local highway safety programs to justify the expenditure in the State of such percentage of Federal funds during the fiscal year.


(c) Use of Funds.—

(1) In general.—Funds authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section shall be used to aid the States to conduct the highway safety programs approved in accordance with subsection (a), including development and implementation of manpower training programs, and of demonstration programs that the Secretary determines will contribute directly to the reduction of accidents, and deaths and injuries resulting therefrom.

(2) Apportionment.—Except for amounts identified in section 403(f), funds described in paragraph (1) shall be apportioned 75 per centum in the ratio which the population of each State bears to the total population of all the States, as shown by the latest available Federal census, and 25 per centum in the ratio which the public road mileage in each State bears to the total public road mileage in all States. For the purposes of this subsection, a “public road” means any road under the jurisdiction of and maintained by a public authority and open to public travel. Public road mileage as used in this subsection shall be determined as of the end of the calendar year preceding the year in which the funds are apportioned and shall be certified to by the Governor of the State and subject to approval by the Secretary. The annual apportionment to each State shall not be less than three-quarters of 1 percent of the total apportionment, except that the apportionment to the Secretary of the Interior shall not be less than 2 percent of the total apportionment and the apportionments to the Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands shall not be less than one-quarter of 1 per centum of the total apportionment. A highway safety program approved by the Secretary shall not include any requirement that a State 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 eighteen years of age or older or passenger eighteen years of age or older to wear a safety helmet when operating or riding a motorcycle on the streets and highways of that State. Implementation of a highway safety program under this section shall not be construed to require the Secretary to require compliance with every uniform guideline, or with every element of every uniform guideline, in every State. A State may use the funds apportioned under this section, in cooperation with neighboring States, for highway safety programs or related projects that may confer benefits on such neighboring States. Funds apportioned under this section to any State, that does not have a highway safety program approved by the Secretary or that is not implementing an approved program, shall be reduced by amounts equal to not less than 20 percent of the amounts that would otherwise be apportioned to the State under this section, until such time as the Secretary approves such program or determines that the State is implementing an approved program, as appropriate. The Secretary shall consider the gravity of the State's failure to have or implement an approved program in determining the amount of the reduction.

(3) Reapportionment.—The Secretary shall promptly apportion the funds withheld from a State's apportionment to the State if the Secretary approves the State's highway safety program or determines that the State has begun implementing an approved program, as appropriate, not later than July 31st of the fiscal year for which the funds were withheld. If the Secretary determines that the State did not correct its failure within such period, the Secretary shall reapportion the withheld funds to the other States in accordance with the formula specified in paragraph (2) not later than the last day of the fiscal year.

(4) Automated traffic enforcement systems.—

(A) Prohibition.—A State may not expend funds apportioned to that State under this section to carry out a program to purchase, operate, or maintain an automated traffic enforcement system.

(B) Automated traffic enforcement system defined.—In this paragraph, the term “automated traffic enforcement system” means any camera which captures an image of a vehicle for the purposes only of red light and speed enforcement, and does not include hand held radar and other devices operated by law enforcement officers to make an on-the-scene traffic stop, issue a traffic citation, or other enforcement action at the time of the violation.


(d) All provisions of chapter 1 of this title that are applicable to National Highway System highway funds other than provisions relating to the apportionment formula and provisions limiting the expenditure of such funds to the Federal-aid systems, shall apply to the highway safety funds authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section, except as determined by the Secretary to be inconsistent with this section, and except that the aggregate of all expenditures made during any fiscal year by a State and its political subdivisions (exclusive of Federal funds) for carrying out the State highway safety program (other than planning and administration) shall be available for the purpose of crediting such State during such fiscal year for the non-Federal share of the cost of any project under this section (other than one for planning or administration) without regard to whether such expenditures were actually made in connection with such project and except that, in the case of a local highway safety program carried out by an Indian tribe, if the Secretary is satisfied that an Indian tribe does not have sufficient funds available to meet the non-Federal share of the cost of such program, he may increase the Federal share of the cost thereof payable under this Act to the extent necessary. In applying such provisions of chapter 1 in carrying out this section the term “State transportation department” as used in such provisions shall mean the Governor of a State for the purposes of this section.

(e) Uniform guidelines promulgated by the Secretary to carry out this section shall be developed in cooperation with the States, their political subdivisions, appropriate Federal departments and agencies, and such other public and private organizations as the Secretary deems appropriate.

(f) The Secretary may make arrangements with other Federal departments and agencies for assistance in the preparation of uniform guidelines for the highway safety programs contemplated by subsection (a) and in the administration of such programs. Such departments and agencies are directed to cooperate in such preparation and administration, on a reimbursable basis.

(g) Savings Provision.—

(1) In general.—Except as provided under paragraph (2), nothing in this section may be construed to authorize the appropriation or expenditure of funds for—

(A) highway construction, maintenance, or design (other than design of safety features of highways to be incorporated into guidelines); or

(B) any purpose for which funds are authorized under section 403.


(2) Demonstration projects.—A State may use funds made available to carry out this section to assist in demonstration projects carried out by the Secretary under section 403.


(h) Application in Indian Country.—

(1) Use of terms.—For the purpose of application of this section in Indian country, the terms “State” and “Governor of a State” include the Secretary of the Interior and the term “political subdivision of a State” includes an Indian tribe.

(2) Expenditures for local highway programs.—Notwithstanding subsection (b)(1)(C), 95 percent of the funds apportioned to the Secretary of the Interior under this section shall be expended by Indian tribes to carry out highway safety programs within their jurisdictions.

(3) Access for individuals with disabilities.—The requirements of subsection (b)(1)(D) shall be applicable to Indian tribes, except to those tribes with respect to which the Secretary determines that application of such provisions would not be practicable.

(4) Indian country defined.—In this subsection, the term “Indian country” means—

(A) all land within the limits of any Indian reservation under the jurisdiction of the United States, notwithstanding the issuance of any patent and including rights-of-way running through the reservation;

(B) all dependent Indian communities within the borders of the United States, whether within the original or subsequently acquired territory thereof and whether within or without the limits of a State; and

(C) all Indian allotments, the Indian titles to which have not been extinguished, including rights-of-way running through such allotments.


(i) Rulemaking Proceeding.—The Secretary may periodically conduct a rulemaking process to identify highway safety programs that are highly effective in reducing motor vehicle crashes, injuries, and deaths. Any such rulemaking shall take into account the major role of the States in implementing such programs. When a rule promulgated in accordance with this section takes effect, States shall consider these highly effective programs when developing their highway safety programs.

(j) Law Enforcement Vehicular Pursuit Training.—A State shall actively encourage all relevant law enforcement agencies in such State to follow the guidelines established for vehicular pursuits issued by the International Association of Chiefs of Police that are in effect on the date of enactment of this subsection or as revised and in effect after such date as determined by the Secretary.

(k) Highway Safety Plan and Reporting Requirements.—

(1) In general.—With respect to fiscal year 2014, and each fiscal year thereafter, the Secretary shall require each State, as a condition of the approval of the State's highway safety program for that fiscal year, to develop and submit to the Secretary for approval a highway safety plan that complies with the requirements under this subsection.

(2) Timing.—Each State shall submit to the Secretary the highway safety plan not later than July 1st of the fiscal year preceding the fiscal year to which the plan applies.

(3) Contents.—State highway safety plans submitted under paragraph (1) shall include—

(A) performance measures required by the Secretary or otherwise necessary to support additional State safety goals, including—

(i) documentation of current safety levels for each performance measure;

(ii) quantifiable annual performance targets for each performance measure; and

(iii) a justification for each performance target, that explains why each target is appropriate and evidence-based;


(B) a strategy for programming funds apportioned to the State under this section on projects and activities that will allow the State to meet the performance targets described in subparagraph (A);

(C) data and data analysis supporting the effectiveness of proposed countermeasures;

(D) a description of any Federal, State, local, or private funds that the State plans to use, in addition to funds apportioned to the State under this section, to carry out the strategy described in subparagraph (B);

(E) for the fiscal year preceding the fiscal year to which the plan applies, a report on the State's success in meeting State safety goals and performance targets set forth in the previous year's highway safety plan; and

(F) an application for any additional grants available to the State under this chapter.


(4) Performance measures.—For the first highway safety plan submitted under this subsection, the performance measures required by the Secretary under paragraph (2)(A) shall be limited to those developed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Governor's Highway Safety Association and described in the report, “Traffic Safety Performance Measures for States and Federal Agencies” (DOT HS 811 025). For subsequent highway safety plans, the Secretary shall coordinate with the Governor's Highway Safety Association in making revisions to the set of required performance measures.

(5) Review of highway safety plans.—

(A) In general.—Not later than 60 days after the date on which a State's highway safety plan is received by the Secretary, the Secretary shall review and approve or disapprove the plan.

(B) Approvals and disapprovals.—

(i) Approvals.—The Secretary shall approve a State's highway safety plan if the Secretary determines that—

(I) the plan and the performance targets contained in the plan are evidence-based and supported by data; and

(II) the plan, once implemented, will allow the State to meet the State's performance targets.


(ii) Disapprovals.—The Secretary shall disapprove a State's highway safety plan if the Secretary determines that—

(I) the plan and the performance targets contained in the plan are not evidence-based or supported by data; or

(II) the plan does not provide for programming of funding in a manner sufficient to allow the State to meet the State's performance targets.


(C) Actions upon disapproval.—If the Secretary disapproves a State's highway safety plan, the Secretary shall—

(i) inform the State of the reasons for such disapproval; and

(ii) require the State to resubmit the plan with any modifications that the Secretary determines to be necessary.


(D) Review of resubmitted plans.—If the Secretary requires a State to resubmit a highway safety plan, with modifications, the Secretary shall review and approve or disapprove the modified plan not later than 30 days after the date on which the Secretary receives such plan.

(E) Public notice.—A State shall make the State's highway safety plan, and decisions of the Secretary concerning approval or disapproval of a revised plan, available to the public.


[(l) redesignated (j).]

(m) Teen Traffic Safety.—

(1) In general.—Subject to the requirements of a State's highway safety plan, as approved by the Secretary under subsection (k), a State may use a portion of the amounts received under this section to implement statewide efforts to improve traffic safety for teen drivers.

(2) Use of funds.—Statewide efforts under paragraph (1)—

(A) shall include peer-to-peer education and prevention strategies in schools and communities designed to—

(i) increase safety belt use;

(ii) reduce speeding;

(iii) reduce impaired and distracted driving;

(iv) reduce underage drinking; and

(v) reduce other behaviors by teen drivers that lead to injuries and fatalities; and


(B) may include—

(i) working with student-led groups and school advisors to plan and implement teen traffic safety programs;

(ii) providing subgrants to schools throughout the State to support the establishment and expansion of student groups focused on teen traffic safety;

(iii) providing support, training, and technical assistance to establish and expand school and community safety programs for teen drivers;

(iv) creating statewide or regional websites to publicize and circulate information on teen safety programs;

(v) conducting outreach and providing educational resources for parents;

(vi) establishing State or regional advisory councils comprised of teen drivers to provide input and recommendations to the governor and the governor's safety representative on issues related to the safety of teen drivers;

(vii) collaborating with law enforcement; and

(viii) establishing partnerships and promoting coordination among community stakeholders, including public, not-for-profit, and for profit entities.


(n) Biennial Report to Congress.—Not later than October 1, 2015, and biennially thereafter, the Secretary shall submit a report to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate that contains—

(1) an evaluation of each State's performance with respect to the State's highway safety plan under subsection (k) and performance targets set by the States in such plans; and

(2) such recommendations as the Secretary may have for improvements to activities carried out under subsection (k).

(Added Pub. L. 89–564, title I, §101, Sept. 9, 1966, 80 Stat. 731; amended Pub. L. 90–495, §13, Aug. 23, 1968, 82 Stat. 822; Pub. L. 91–605, title II, §§202(c), (d), (e), 203(a), Dec. 31, 1970, 84 Stat. 1740, 1741; Pub. L. 93–87, title II, §§207, 215–217, 219, 228, 229, 231, Aug. 13, 1973, 87 Stat. 285, 290, 293, 294; Pub. L. 94–280, title II, §§204, 208(a), 211, 212, May 5, 1976, 90 Stat. 453, 454, 455; Pub. L. 95–599, title II, §207(a), (b)(1), (c), (d), Nov. 6, 1978, 92 Stat. 2731, 2732; Pub. L. 97–35, title XI, §1107(c)–(e), Aug. 13, 1981, 95 Stat. 626; Pub. L. 97–424, title II, §208, Jan. 6, 1983, 96 Stat. 2140; Pub. L. 98–363, §§3(a), 5, July 17, 1984, 98 Stat. 436; Pub. L. 100–17, title I, §133(b)(20), title II, §206, Apr. 2, 1987, 101 Stat. 172, 221; Pub. L. 102–240, title II, §2002, Dec. 18, 1991, 105 Stat. 2070; Pub. L. 104–66, title I, §1121(d), Dec. 21, 1995, 109 Stat. 724; Pub. L. 105–178, title I, §1212(a)(2)(A)(i), title II, §2001(a)–(e), June 9, 1998, 112 Stat. 193, 323, 324; Pub. L. 109–59, title II, §2002(a)–(d), Aug. 10, 2005, 119 Stat. 1521; Pub. L. 110–244, title III, §303(a)–(c)(1), June 6, 2008, 122 Stat. 1619; Pub. L. 112–141, div. C, title I, §31102, July 6, 2012, 126 Stat. 734.)

References in Text

The date of enactment of the Motor Vehicle and Highway Safety Improvement Act of 2012, referred to in subsec. (b)(1)(E), is the date of enactment of title I of div. C of Pub. L. 112–141, which was approved July 6, 2012.

This Act, referred to in subsec. (d), probably means Pub. L. 93–87, Aug. 13, 1973, 87 Stat. 250. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Tables.

The date of enactment of this subsection, referred to in subsec. (j), is the date of enactment of Pub. L. 109–59, which was approved Aug. 10, 2005.

Amendments

2012—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 112–141, §31102(a), amended subsec. (a) generally. Prior to amendment, subsec. (a) related to State highway programs designed to reduce traffic accidents and deaths in accordance with uniform guidelines promulgated by the Secretary.

Subsec. (b)(1)(E), (F). Pub. L. 112–141, §31102(b)(1)(A)–(C), added subpar. (E) and redesignated former subpar. (E) as (F).

Subsec. (b)(1)(F)(i). Pub. L. 112–141, §31102(b)(1)(D)(i), inserted “and high-visibility law enforcement mobilizations coordinated by the Secretary” after “mobilizations”.

Subsec. (b)(1)(F)(v). Pub. L. 112–141, §31102(b)(1)(D)(ii)–(iv), added cl. (v).

Subsec. (b)(3). Pub. L. 112–141, §31102(b)(2), struck out par. (3). Text read as follows: “The Secretary may encourage States to use technologically advanced traffic enforcement devices (including the use of automatic speed detection devices such as photo-radar) by law enforcement officers.”

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 112–141, §31102(c), inserted subsec. and par. headings and substantially revised text of subsec. (c). Prior to amendment, subsec. (c) related to use of funds appropriated to carry out this section.

Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 112–141, §31102(d), amended subsec. (g) generally. Prior to amendment, subsec. (g) read as follows: “Nothing in this section authorizes the appropriation or expenditure of funds for (1) highway construction, maintenance, or design (other than design of safety features of highways to be incorporated into guidelines) or (2) any purpose for which funds are authorized by section 403 of this title.”

Subsecs. (h) to (j). Pub. L. 112–141, §31102(e)(2), (3), redesignated subsecs. (i), (j), and (l) as (h), (i), and (j), respectively.

Subsec. (k). Pub. L. 112–141, §31102(e)(1), (f), added subsec. (k) and struck out former subsec. (k) which related to grants to States for the development and use of a comprehensive computerized safety recordkeeping system designed to correlate data regarding traffic accidents, drivers, motor vehicles, and roadways.

Subsec. (l). Pub. L. 112–141, §31102(e)(3), redesignated subsec. (l) as (j).

Subsec. (m). Pub. L. 112–141, §31102(e)(1), (g), added subsec. (m) and struck out former subsec. (m). Prior to amendment, text read as follows: “The Secretary shall establish an approval process by which a State may apply for all grants under this chapter for which a single application process with one annual deadline is appropriate. The Bureau of Indian Affairs shall establish a similar simplified process for applications for grants from Indian tribes under this chapter.”

Subsec. (n). Pub. L. 112–141, §31102(h), added subsec. (n).

2008—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 110–244, §303(c)(1)(A), repealed amendment by Pub. L. 109–59, §2002(b)(2). See 2005 Amendment note below.

Subsec. (b)(1)(E). Pub. L. 110–244, §303(c)(1)(B), renumbered Pub. L. 109–59, §2002(b)(1), (3), (4). See 2005 Amendment note below.

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 110–244, §303(a), in fifth sentence, substituted “The annual apportionment to each State shall not be less than three-quarters of 1 percent” for “The annual apportionment to each State shall not be less than one-half of 1 per centum”.

Subsec. (m). Pub. L. 110–244, §303(b), in first sentence, substituted “for which” for “through” and inserted “is appropriate” before period at end.

2005—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 109–59, §2002(a)(4), inserted “aggressive driving, fatigued driving, distracted driving,” after “school bus accidents,” in tenth sentence.

Subsec. (a)(2). Pub. L. 109–59, §2002(a)(1), struck out “and to increase public awareness of the benefit of motor vehicles equipped with airbags” before comma at end.

Subsec. (a)(6), (7). Pub. L. 109–59, §2002(a)(2), (3), added cl. (6) and redesignated former cl. (6) as (7).

Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 109–59, §2002(b)(2), which directed amendment of subsec. (b)(1) by redesignating cl. (6) as (7) and could not be executed, was repealed by Pub. L. 110–244, §303(c)(1)(A).

Subsec. (b)(1)(E). Pub. L. 109–59, §2002(b)(1)–(3), formerly §2002(b)(1), (3), (4), as renumbered by Pub. L. 110–244, §303(c)(1)(B), added subpar. (E).

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 109–59, §2002(c)(2), which directed amendment of subsec. (c) by substituting “2 percent” for “three-fourths of 1 percent” in sixth sentence, was executed by making the substitution in fifth sentence to reflect the probable intent of Congress and the amendment by Pub. L. 109–59, §2002(c)(1). See below.

Pub. L. 109–59, §2002(c)(1), struck out second sentence which read as follows: “Such funds shall be subject to a deduction not to exceed 5 per centum for the necessary costs of administering the provisions of this section, and the remainder shall be apportioned among the several States.”

Subsecs. (l), (m). Pub. L. 109–59, §2002(d), added subsecs. (l) and (m).

1998—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 105–178, §2001(a), in fourth sentence, substituted “(4) to prevent accidents and” for “(4) to”, in eighth sentence, struck out “include information obtained by the Secretary under section 4007 of the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 and” before “provide for annual reports to the Secretary”, and in twelfth sentence, inserted “enforcement of light transmission standards of window glazing for passenger motor vehicles and light trucks as necessary to improve highway safety,” before “and emergency services”.

Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 105–178, §2001(b), inserted heading, redesignated pars. (3) to (5) as (1) to (3), respectively, substituted “paragraph (3)” for “paragraph (5)” in par. (1)(C) and “paragraph (1)(C)” for “paragraph (3)(C)” in par. (2), and struck out former pars. (1) and (2) which read as follows:

“(b)(1) The Secretary shall not approve any State highway safety program under this section which does not—

“(A) provide that the Governor of the State shall be responsible for the administration of the program through a State highway safety agency which shall have adequate powers, and be suitably equipped and organized to carry out, to the satisfaction of the Secretary, such program.

“(B) authorize political subdivisions of such State to carry out local highway safety programs within their jurisdictions as a part of the State highway safety program if such local highway safety programs are approved by the Governor and are in accordance with the uniform guidelines of the Secretary promulgated under this section.

“(C) provide that at least 40 per centum of all Federal funds apportioned under this section to such State for any fiscal year will be expended by the political subdivisions of such State in carrying out local highway safety programs authorized in accordance with subparagraph (B) of this paragraph.

“(D) provide adequate and reasonable access for the safe and convenient movement of physically handicapped persons, including those in wheelchairs, across curbs constructed or replaced on or after July 1, 1976, at all pedestrian crosswalks throughout the State.

“(E) provide for programs (which may include financial incentives and disincentives) to encourage the use of safety belts by drivers of, and passengers in, motor vehicles.

“(2) The Secretary is authorized to waive the requirement of subparagraph (C) of paragraph (1) of this subsection, in whole or in part, for a fiscal year for any State whenever he determines that there is an insufficient number of local highway safety programs to justify the expenditure in such State of such percentage of Federal funds during such fiscal year.”

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 105–178, §2001(c), in sixth sentence, inserted “the apportionment to the Secretary of the Interior shall not be less than three-fourths of 1 percent of the total apportionment and” before “the apportionments to the Virgin Islands”.

Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 105–178, §1212(a)(2)(A)(i), substituted “State transportation department” for “State highway department”.

Subsec. (i). Pub. L. 105–178, §2001(d), inserted heading and amended text of subsec. (i) generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: “For the purpose of the application of this section on Indian reservations, ‘State’ and ‘Governor of a State’ includes the Secretary of the Interior and ‘political subdivision of a State’ includes an Indian tribe: Provided, That, notwithstanding the provisions of subparagraph (C) of subsection (b)(1) hereof, 95 per centum of the funds apportioned to the Secretary of the Interior after date of enactment, shall be expended by Indian tribes to carry out highway safety programs within their jurisdictions: And provided further, That the provisions of subparagraph (E) of subsection (b)(1) hereof shall be applicable except in those tribal jurisdictions in which the Secretary determines such programs would not be practicable.”

Subsec. (j). Pub. L. 105–178, §2001(e), amended heading and text of subsec. (j) generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: “The Secretary shall, not later than September 1, 1987, begin a rulemaking process to determine those programs most effective in reducing accidents, injuries, and deaths. Not later than April 1, 1988, the Secretary shall promulgate a final rule establishing those programs determined to be most effective in reducing accidents, injuries, and deaths. If such rule is promulgated by April 1, 1988, then it shall take effect October 1, 1988. If such rule is not promulgated by April 1, 1988, it shall take effect October 1, 1989. After a rule is promulgated in accordance with this subsection, the Secretary may from time to time thereafter revise such rule under a rulemaking process described in the first sentence of this subsection. Any rule under this subsection shall be promulgated taking into account consideration of the States having a major role in establishing programs described in the first sentence of this subsection. When a rule promulgated in accordance with this subsection takes effect, only those programs established by such rule as most effective in reducing accidents, injuries, and deaths shall be eligible to receive Federal financial assistance under this section.”

1995—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 104–66 struck out after fourth sentence “If the Secretary does not designate as priority programs those programs described in the preceding sentence, the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report describing the reasons for not prioritizing such programs.”

1991—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 102–240, §2002(a), inserted after third sentence “In addition, such uniform guidelines shall include programs (1) to reduce injuries and deaths resulting from motor vehicles being driven in excess of posted speed limits, (2) to encourage the proper use of occupant protection devices (including the use of safety belts and child restraint systems) by occupants of motor vehicles and to increase public awareness of the benefit of motor vehicles equipped with airbags, (3) to reduce deaths and injuries resulting from persons driving motor vehicles while impaired by alcohol or a controlled substance, (4) to reduce deaths and injuries resulting from accidents involving motor vehicles and motorcycles, (5) to reduce injuries and deaths resulting from accidents involving school buses, and (6) to improve law enforcement services in motor vehicle accident prevention, traffic supervision, and post-accident procedures. If the Secretary does not designate as priority programs those programs described in the preceding sentence, the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report describing the reasons for not prioritizing such programs. The Secretary shall establish a highway safety program for the collection and reporting of data on traffic-related deaths and injuries by the States. Under such program, the States shall collect and report such data as the Secretary may require. The purposes of the program are to ensure national uniform data on such deaths and injuries and to allow the Secretary to make determinations for use in developing programs to reduce such deaths and injuries and making recommendations to Congress concerning legislation necessary to implement such programs. The program shall include information obtained by the Secretary under section 4007 of the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 and provide for annual reports to the Secretary on the efforts being made by the States in reducing deaths and injuries occurring at highway construction sites and the effectiveness and results of such efforts. The Secretary shall establish minimum reporting criteria for the program. Such criteria shall include, but not be limited to, criteria on deaths and injuries resulting from police pursuits, school bus accidents, and speeding, on traffic-related deaths and injuries at highway construction sites and on the configuration of commercial motor vehicles involved in motor vehicle accidents.”

Subsec. (b)(3) to (5). Pub. L. 102–240, §2002(b), added pars. (3) to (5).

Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 102–240, §2002(c), substituted “National Highway System” for “Federal-aid primary”.

1987—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 100–17, §206(a), (b), substituted “guidelines” for “standards” wherever appearing and struck out provisions authorizing the Secretary to temporarily amend or waive standards in public interest for purpose of evaluating new or different highway safety programs instituted on an experimental, pilot or demonstration basis.

Subsec. (b)(1)(B). Pub. L. 100–17, §206(a), substituted “guidelines” for “standards”.

Subsec. (b)(1)(D) to (F). Pub. L. 100–17, §206(c), redesignated subpars. (E) and (F) as (D) and (E), respectively, and struck out former subpar. (D) which read as follows: “provide for comprehensive driver training programs, including (1) the initiation of a State program for driver education in the school systems or for a significant expansion and improvement of such a program already in existence, to be administered by appropriate school officials under the supervision of the Governor as set forth in subparagraph (A) of this paragraph; (2) the training of qualified school instructors and their certification; (3) appropriate regulation of other driver training schools, including licensing of the schools and certification of their instructors; (4) adult driver training programs, and programs for the retraining of selected drivers; (5) adequate research, development and procurement of practice driving facilities, simulators, and other similar teaching aids for both school and other driver training use, and (6) driver education programs, including research, that will assure greater safety for bicyclists using public roads in such State.”

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 100–17, §§133(b)(20), 206(a), substituted “Such” for “For the fiscal years ending June 30, 1967, June 30, 1968, and June 30, 1969, such funds shall be apportioned 75 per centum on the basis of population and 25 per centum as the Secretary in his administrative discretion may deem appropriate and thereafter such”, “American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands” for “and American Samoa”, “The Secretary shall” for “After December 31, 1969, the Secretary shall”, and “guideline” for “standard” wherever appearing.

Subsecs. (e) to (g). Pub. L. 100–17, §206(a), substituted “guidelines” for “standards”.

Subsec. (j). Pub. L. 100–17, §206(d), amended subsec. (j) generally. Prior to amendment, subsec. (j) read as follows: “The Secretary of Transportation shall, not later than September 1, 1981, begin a rulemaking process to determine those programs most effective in reducing accidents, injuries, and deaths. Such rule shall be promulgated taking into account consideration of the States having a major role in establishing these programs. Not later than April 1, 1982, the Secretary shall promulgate a final rule establishing those programs determined most effective in reducing accidents, injuries, and deaths. Before such rule shall take effect, it shall be transmitted to Congress. If such rule is not transmitted by April 1, 1982, it shall not take effect before October 1, 1983. If such rule is transmitted by April 1, 1982, it shall take effect October 1, 1982, unless before June 1, 1982, either House of Congress by resolution disapproves such rule. If such rule is disapproved by either House of Congress, the Secretary shall not apportion or obligate any amount authorized to carry out this section for the fiscal year ending September 30, 1983, or any subsequent fiscal year, unless specifically authorized to do so by a statute enacted after the date of enactment of the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981. When a rule promulgated in accordance with this subsection takes effect, only those programs established by such rule as most effective in reducing accidents, injuries, and deaths shall be eligible to receive Federal financial assistance under this chapter.”

1984—Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 98–363, §3(a), inserted “, except that the apportionments to the Virgin Islands, Guam, and American Samoa shall be not less than one-quarter of 1 per centum of the total apportionment” in sixth sentence.

Subsec. (k). Pub. L. 98–363, §5, added subsec. (k).

1983—Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 97–424 struck out provision that apportionments to Virgin Islands, Guam, and American Samoa were not to be less than one third of 1 per centum of total apportionment from provision relating to the minimum apportionment for each State.

1981—Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 97–35, §1107(e), struck out subpar. (D) which related to aggregate expenditure of funds, and redesignated subpars. (E) to (G) as (D) to (F), respectively.

Subsec. (h). Pub. L. 97–35, §1107(c), struck out subsec. (h) which related to continuation in effect of uniform safety standards promulgated on or before July 1, 1973.

Subsec. (j). Pub. L. 97–35, §1107(d), substituted provisions requiring the Secretary to begin by Sept. 1, 1981, a rulemaking process to determine the most effective programs to reduce accidents, injuries, and deaths, and procedures applicable to the process, for provisions authorizing the Secretary to make incentive grants to States most progressive in reducing traffic fatalities, criteria, duration, etc., of such grants, and authorization of appropriations.

1978—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 95–599, §207(a), inserted “including, but not limited to, such programs for identifying accident causes, adopting measures to reduce accidents, and evaluating effectiveness of such measures” after “one or more States”.

Subsec. (b)(1)(A). Pub. L. 95–599, §207(b)(1), substituted “State highway safety agency” for “State agency”.

Subsec. (b)(1)(G). Pub. L. 95–599, §207(c), added subpar. (G).

Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 95–599, §207(d), inserted “(other than planning and administration)” after “State highway safety program” and “(other than one for planning or administration)” after “cost of any project under this section”.

1976—Subsec. (c), sixth sentence. Pub. L. 94–280, §211, inserted exception provision requirement that the apportionments to the Virgin Islands, Guam, and American Samoa be not less than one-third of 1 per centum of the total apportionment.

Subsec. (c), eighth and ninth sentences. Pub. L. 94–280, §208(a), inserted eighth and ninth sentences: excluding from any highway safety program approved by the Secretary any requirement that a State implement a Federal safety helmet wearing standard for operators or passengers of motorcycles by adopting or enforcing any law, rule, or regulation based on the Federal standard, and authorizing State implementation of a highway safety program without compliance with every uniform standard in every State; and deleted prior eighth, ninth, and tenth sentences providing for: a 10 per centum reduction of funds apportioned to a State on or after January 1, 1970, for nonimplementation of a highway safety program approved by the Secretary during such a period; suspension of application of such provision during necessary periods when in the public interest; and reapportionment of withheld amounts to other States in accordance with applicable provisions of law, now covered in the tenth through thirteenth sentences.

Subsec. (c), tenth through thirteenth sentences. Pub. L. 94–280, §212, inserted provisions for: a 50 per centum reduction of funds apportioned to a State during time of absence or nonimplementation of a highway safety program; gravity rule in determining amount of reduction of funds; apportionment to a State of withheld funds prior to the end of the fiscal year for which the funds were withheld in event of approval of or State implementation of a highway safety program; and for reapportionment of funds to other States in accordance with the prescribed formula not later than 30 days after determination of absence of correction by a State, similar provisions being formerly covered in prior eighth, ninth, and tenth sentences providing for: a 10 per centum reduction of funds apportioned to a State on or after January 1, 1970, for nonimplementation of a highway safety program approved by the Secretary during such a period; suspension of application of such provision during necessary periods when in the public interest; and reapportionment of withheld amounts to other States in accordance with applicable provisions of law.

Subsec. (j)(3) to (5). Pub. L. 94–280, §204, added par. (3) provisions respecting incentive safety grants, struck out prior par. (3) provisions limiting incentive awards authorized by this section to 25 per centum of each State's apportionment as authorized by this chapter, and added pars. (4) and (5).

1973—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 93–87, §231(a), provided for promulgation of uniform standards so as to improve bicycle safety.

Subsec. (b)(1)(E)(6). Pub. L. 93–87, §231(b), added item (6) of subpar. (E).

Subsec. (b)(1)(F). Pub. L. 93–87, §228, added subpar. (F).

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 93–87, §§215–217, provided for use of funds for development and implementation of manpower training programs, and of demonstration programs that the Secretary determines will contribute directly to the reduction of accidents, and deaths and injuries resulting therefrom and inserted “Such funds” before “shall be subject to a deduction”; provided for the determination of public road mileage as of the end of the calendar year preceding the year in which the funds are apportioned and shall be certified to by the Governor of the State and subject to approval by the Secretary; and increased the annual apportionment to each State from “one-third of 1 per centum” to “one-half of 1 per centum” of the total apportionment, respectively.

Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 93–87, §207(b), inserted at end of first sentence provision that in the case of a local highway safety program carried out by an Indian tribe, if the Secretary is satisfied that an Indian tribe does not have sufficient funds available to meet the non-Federal share of the cost of such program, he may increase the Federal share of the cost thereof payable under this Act to the extent necessary.

Subsec. (h). Pub. L. 93–87, §229, substituted provisions for continuation of uniform safety standards promulgated under this section on or before July 1, 1973, unless otherwise specifically provided by law enacted after Aug. 13, 1973, and prohibiting the Secretary from promulgating any other uniform safety standard under this section (including by revision of a standard continued in effect by the preceding sentence) unless otherwise specifically provided by law enacted after Aug. 13, 1973, for former prohibition against promulgation of any other uniform safety standard unless at least 90 days prior to the effective date of such standard the Secretary shall have submitted such standard to Congress, except in the case of State safety program elements with respect to which uniform standards have been promulgated by the Secretary before Dec. 31, 1970.

Subsec. (i). Pub. L. 93–87, §207(a), added subsec. (i).

Subsec. (j). Pub. L. 93–87, §219, added subsec. (j).

1970—Subsec. (b)(1)(A). Pub. L. 91–605, §203(A), required the Governor of a State be responsible for the administration of the State highway safety program through a State agency suitably organized and possessed of adequate powers to carry out such programs to the satisfaction of the Secretary.

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 91–605, §202(c), provided a formula for apportionments to States, after June 30, 1969, to carry out this section, whereby 75% of the appropriation is based on the ratio which the population of each State bears to the total population of all the States and 25% of the appropriation is based on the ratio which the public road mileage in each State bears to the total public road mileage in all States, defined “public road”, provided the annual apportionment to each State not to be less than one-third of 1% of the total apportionment, struck out provisions authorizing appropriations after June 30, 1969 to be apportioned as Congress shall provide and struck out provisions mandating the Secretary to report to Congress his recommendations for a nondiscretionary formula of apportionment for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1970, and the fiscal years thereafter.

Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 91–605, §202(d), provided that the aggregate of all expenditures made during any fiscal year by a State and its political subdivisions for carrying out the State highway safety program be available for crediting such State for the non-Federal share of the cost of any project under this section without regard to whether such expenditures were actually made in connection with such project.

Subsec. (h). Pub. L. 91–605, §202(e), added subsec. (h).

1968—Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 90–495 substituted “December 31, 1969” for “December 31, 1968” as the last day on which the Secretary may apportion funds to States which are not implementing highway safety programs approved by the Secretary and substituted “January 1, 1970” for “January 1, 1969” as the date after which funds apportioned to States not having approved safety programs shall be reduced until a safety program is implemented.

Effective Date of 2012 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 112–141 effective Oct. 1, 2012, see section 3(a) of Pub. L. 112–141, set out as an Effective and Termination Dates of 2012 Amendment note under section 101 of this title.

Effective Date of 2008 Amendment

Amendment by sections 101(s)(2) and 303(c)(1) of Pub. L. 110–244 effective as of the date of enactment of Pub. L. 109–59 (Aug. 10, 2005) and to be treated as included in Pub. L. 109–59 as of that date, and provisions of Pub. L. 109–59, as in effect on the day before June 6, 2008, that are amended by Pub. L. 110–244 to be treated as not enacted, see section 121(b) of Pub. L. 110–244, set out as a note under section 101 of this title.

Pub. L. 110–244, title III, §303(a), June 6, 2008, 122 Stat. 1619, provided that the amendment made by section 303(a) is effective Oct. 1, 2007.

Effective Date of 2005 Amendment

Pub. L. 109–59, title II, §2022, Aug. 10, 2005, 119 Stat. 1544, provided that: “Sections 2002 through 2007 of this title [amending this section and sections 403, 405, 406, 408, and 410 of this title and enacting provisions set out as notes under sections 403 and 410 of this title] (and the amendments and repeals made by such sections) shall take effect October 1, 2005.”

Effective Date of 1991 Amendment

Pub. L. 102–240, title II, §2008, Dec. 18, 1991, 105 Stat. 2080, provided that: “Except as otherwise provided, this title [amending this section and sections 403 and 410 of this title and sections 1392, 1413, and 1414 of Title 15, Commerce and Trade, enacting provisions set out as notes under this section and sections 401, 403, and 410 of this title and section 1392 of Title 15, and amending provisions set out as a note under section 401 of this title], including the amendments made by this title, shall take effect on the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 18, 1991], shall apply to funds authorized to be appropriated or made available after September 30, 1991, and shall not apply to funds appropriated or made available on or before such date of enactment.”

Effective Date of 1984 Amendment

Amendment by section 3(a) of Pub. L. 98–363 applicable to fiscal years beginning after July 17, 1984, see section 3(c) of Pub. L. 98–363, set out as a note under section 401 of this title.

Effective Date of 1981 Amendment

Pub. L. 97–35, title XI, §1107(c), Aug. 13, 1981, 95 Stat. 626, provided that the amendment made by that section is effective Oct. 1, 1982.

Effective Date of 1978 Amendment

Pub. L. 95–599, title II, §207(b)(2), Nov. 6, 1978, 92 Stat. 2731, provided that: “The amendment made by paragraph (1) of this subsection [amending this section] shall take effect January 1, 1979.”

Effective Date of 1970 Amendment

Pub. L. 91–605, title II, §203(b), Dec. 31, 1970, 84 Stat. 1741, provided that: “The amendment made by subsection (a) of this section [amending this section] shall take effect December 31, 1971.”

Effective Date of 1968 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 90–495 effective Aug. 23, 1968, see section 37 of Pub. L. 90–495, set out as a note under section 101 of this title.

Regulatory Authority; State Matching Requirements; Grant Application and Deadline

Pub. L. 112–141, div. C, title I, §31101(d)–(f), July 6, 2012, 126 Stat. 733, provided that:

“(d) Regulatory Authority.—Grants awarded under this subtitle [subtitle A (§§31101–31109) of title I of div. C of Pub. L. 112–141, see Tables for classification] shall be in accordance with regulations issued by the Secretary [of Transportation].

“(e) State Matching Requirements.—If a grant awarded under this subtitle requires a State to share in the cost, the aggregate of all expenditures for highway safety activities made during any fiscal year by the State and its political subdivisions (exclusive of Federal funds) for carrying out the grant (other than planning and administration) shall be available for the purpose of crediting the State during such fiscal year for the non-Federal share of the cost of any project under this subtitle (other than planning or administration) without regard to whether such expenditures were actually made in connection with such project.

“(f) Grant Application and Deadline.—To receive a grant under this subtitle, a State shall submit an application, and the Secretary shall establish a single deadline for such applications to enable the award of grants early in the next fiscal year.”

Safe Routes to School Program

Pub. L. 109–59, title I, §1404, Aug. 10, 2005, 119 Stat. 1228, as amended by Pub. L. 110–244, §101(s)(2), June 6, 2008, 122 Stat. 1577, provided that:

“(a) Establishment.—Subject to the requirements of this section, the Secretary [of Transportation] shall establish and carry out a safe routes to school program for the benefit of children in primary and middle schools.

“(b) Purposes.—The purposes of the program shall be—

“(1) to enable and encourage children, including those with disabilities, to walk and bicycle to school;

“(2) to make bicycling and walking to school a safer and more appealing transportation alternative, thereby encouraging a healthy and active lifestyle from an early age; and

“(3) to facilitate the planning, development, and implementation of projects and activities that will improve safety and reduce traffic, fuel consumption, and air pollution in the vicinity of schools.

“(c) Apportionment of Funds.—

“(1) In general.—Subject to paragraphs (2), (3), and (4), amounts made available to carry out this section for a fiscal year shall be apportioned among the States in the ratio that—

“(A) the total student enrollment in primary and middle schools in each State; bears to

“(B) the total student enrollment in primary and middle schools in all States.

“(2) Minimum apportionment.—No State shall receive an apportionment under this section for a fiscal year of less than $1,000,000.

“(3) Set-aside for administrative expenses.—Before apportioning under this subsection amounts made available to carry out this section for a fiscal year, the Secretary [of Transportation] shall set aside not more than $3,000,000 of such amounts for the administrative expenses of the Secretary in carrying out this subsection.

“(4) Determination of student enrollments.—Determinations under this subsection concerning student enrollments shall be made by the Secretary.

“(d) Administration of Amounts.—Amounts apportioned to a State under this section shall be administered by the State's department of transportation.

“(e) Eligible Recipients.—Amounts apportioned to a State under this section shall be used by the State to provide financial assistance to State, local, tribal, and regional agencies, including nonprofit organizations, that demonstrate an ability to meet the requirements of this section.

“(f) Eligible Projects and Activities.—

“(1) Infrastructure-related projects.—

“(A) In general.—Amounts apportioned to a State under this section may be used for the planning, design, and construction of infrastructure-related projects that will substantially improve the ability of students to walk and bicycle to school, including sidewalk improvements, traffic calming and speed reduction improvements, pedestrian and bicycle crossing improvements, on-street bicycle facilities, off-street bicycle and pedestrian facilities, secure bicycle parking facilities, and traffic diversion improvements in the vicinity of schools.

“(B) Location of projects.—Infrastructure-related projects under subparagraph (A) may be carried out on any public road or any bicycle or pedestrian pathway or trail in the vicinity of schools.

“(2) Noninfrastructure-related activities.—

“(A) In general.—In addition to projects described in paragraph (1), amounts apportioned to a State under this section may be used for noninfrastructure-related activities to encourage walking and bicycling to school, including public awareness campaigns and outreach to press and community leaders, traffic education and enforcement in the vicinity of schools, student sessions on bicycle and pedestrian safety, health, and environment, and funding for training, volunteers, and managers of safe routes to school programs.

“(B) Allocation.—Not less than 10 percent and not more than 30 percent of the amount apportioned to a State under this section for a fiscal year shall be used for noninfrastructure-related activities under this subparagraph.

“(3) Safe routes to school coordinator.—Each State receiving an apportionment under this section for a fiscal year shall use a sufficient amount of the apportionment to fund a full-time position of coordinator of the State's safe routes to school program.

“(g) Clearinghouse.—

“(1) In general.—The Secretary [of Transportation] shall make grants to a national nonprofit organization engaged in promoting safe routes to schools to—

“(A) operate a national safe routes to school clearinghouse;

“(B) develop information and educational programs on safe routes to school; and

“(C) provide technical assistance and disseminate techniques and strategies used for successful safe routes to school programs.

“(2) Funding.—The Secretary shall carry out this subsection using amounts set aside for administrative expenses under subsection (c)(3).

“(h) Task Force.—

“(1) In general.—The Secretary [of Transportation] shall establish a national safe routes to school task force composed of leaders in health, transportation, and education, including representatives of appropriate Federal agencies, to study and develop a strategy for advancing safe routes to school programs nationwide.

“(2) Report.—Not later than March 31, 2006, the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report containing the results of the study conducted, and a description of the strategy developed, under paragraph (1) and information regarding the use of funds for infrastructure-related and noninfrastructure-related activities under paragraphs (1) and (2) of subsection (f).

“(3) Funding.—The Secretary shall carry out this subsection using amounts set aside for administrative expenses under subsection (c)(3).

“(i) Applicability of Title 23.—Funds made available to carry out this section shall be available for obligation in the same manner as if such funds were apportioned under chapter 1 of title 23, United States Code; except that such funds shall not be transferable and shall remain available until expended, and the Federal share of the cost of a project or activity under this section shall be 100 percent.

“(j) Treatment of Projects.—Notwithstanding any other provision of law, projects assisted under this subsection shall be treated as projects on a Federal-aid system under chapter 1 of title 23, United States Code.

“(k) Definitions.—In this section, the following definitions apply:

“(1) In the vicinity of schools.—The term ‘in the vicinity of schools’ means, with respect to a school, the area within bicycling and walking distance of the school (approximately 2 miles).

“(2) Primary and middle schools.—The term ‘primary and middle schools’ means schools providing education from kindergarten through eighth grade.”

Roadway Safety

Pub. L. 109–59, title I, §1411, Aug. 10, 2005, 119 Stat. 1234, provided that:

“(a) Road Safety.—

“(1) In general.—The Secretary [of Transportation] shall enter into an agreement to assist in the activities of a national nonprofit organization that is dedicated solely to improving public road safety—

“(A) by improving the quality of data pertaining to public road hazards and design features that affect or increase the severity of motor vehicle crashes;

“(B) by developing and carrying out a public awareness campaign to educate State and local transportation officials, public safety officials, and motorists regarding the extent to which public road hazards and design features are a factor in motor vehicle crashes; and

“(C) by promoting public road safety research and technology transfer activities.

“(2) Funding.—There is authorized to be appropriated from the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account) $500,000 for each of fiscal years 2006 through 2009 to carry out this subsection.

“(3) Applicability of title 23.—Funds made available by this subsection shall be available for obligation in the same manner as if such funds were apportioned under chapter 1 of title 23, United States Code, except that the funds shall remain available until expended.

“(b) Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety Grants.—

“(1) In general.—The Secretary [of Transportation] shall make grants to a national, not-for-profit organization engaged in promoting bicycle and pedestrian safety—

“(A) to operate a national bicycle and pedestrian clearinghouse;

“(B) to develop information and educational programs; and

“(C) to disseminate techniques and strategies for improving bicycle and pedestrian safety.

“(2) Funding.—There is authorized to be appropriated from the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account) $300,000 for fiscal year 2005 and $500,000 for each of fiscal years 2006 through 2009 to carry out this subsection.

“(3) Applicability of title 23.—Funds made available by this subsection shall be available for obligation in the same manner as if such funds were apportioned under chapter 1 of title 23, United States Code, except that the funds shall remain available until expended.”

Grant Program To Prohibit Racial Profiling

Pub. L. 109–59, title I, §1906, Aug. 10, 2005, 119 Stat. 1468, provided that:

“(a) Grants.—Subject to the requirements of this section, the Secretary [of Transportation] shall make grants to a State that—

“(1)(A) has enacted and is enforcing a law that prohibits the use of racial profiling in the enforcement of State laws regulating the use of Federal-aid highways; and

“(B) is maintaining and allows public inspection of statistical information for each motor vehicle stop made by a law enforcement officer on a Federal-aid highway in the State regarding the race and ethnicity of the driver and any passengers; or

“(2) provides assurances satisfactory to the Secretary that the State is undertaking activities to comply with the requirements of paragraph (1).

“(b) Eligible Activities.—A grant received by a State under subsection (a) shall be used by the State—

“(1) in the case of a State eligible under subsection (a)(1), for costs of—

“(A) collecting and maintaining of data on traffic stops;

“(B) evaluating the results of the data; and

“(C) developing and implementing programs to reduce the occurrence of racial profiling, including programs to train law enforcement officers; and

“(2) in the case of a State eligible under subsection (a)(2), for costs of—

“(A) activities to comply with the requirements of subsection (a)(1); and

“(B) any eligible activity under paragraph (1).

“(c) Racial Profiling.—

“(1) In general.—To meet the requirement of subsection (a)(1), a State law shall prohibit, in the enforcement of State laws regulating the use of Federal-aid highways, a State or local law enforcement officer from using the race or ethnicity of the driver or passengers to any degree in making routine or spontaneous law enforcement decisions, such as ordinary traffic stops on Federal-aid highways.

“(2) Limitation.—Nothing in this subsection shall alter the manner in which a State or local law enforcement officer considers race or ethnicity whenever there is trustworthy information, relevant to the locality or time frame, that links persons of a particular race or ethnicity to an identified criminal incident, scheme, or organization.

“(d) Limitations.—

“(1) Maximum amount of grants.—The total amount of grants made to a State under this section in a fiscal year may not exceed 5 percent of the amount made available to carry out this section in the fiscal year.

“(2) Eligibility.—A State may not receive a grant under subsection (a)(2) in more than 2 fiscal years.

“(e) Authorization of Appropriations.—

“(1) In general.—There is authorized to be appropriated from the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account) to carry out this section $7,500,000 for each of fiscal years 2005 through 2009.

“(2) Contract authority.—Funds authorized by this subsection shall be available for obligation in the same manner as if the funds were apportioned under chapter 1 of title 23, United States Code, except the Federal share of the cost of activities carried out using such funds shall be 80 percent, and such funds shall remain available until expended and shall not be transferable.”

High Visibility Enforcement Program

Pub. L. 109–59, title II, §2009, Aug. 10, 2005, 119 Stat. 1535, as amended by Pub. L. 111–147, title IV, §421(h)(1), Mar. 18, 2010, 124 Stat. 85; Pub. L. 112–30, title I, §121(h)(1), Sept. 16, 2011, 125 Stat. 347; Pub. L. 112–141, div. C, title I, §31106, July 6, 2012, 126 Stat. 755, provided that:

“(a) In General.—The Administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shall establish and administer a program under which at least 3 high-visibility traffic safety law enforcement campaigns will be carried out for the purposes specified in subsection (b) in each of fiscal years 2013 and 2014. The Administrator may also initiate and support additional campaigns in each of fiscal years 2013 and 2014 for the purposes specified in subsection (b).

“(b) Purpose.—The purpose of each law enforcement campaign under this section shall be to achieve outcomes related to at least 1 of the following objectives:

“(1) Reduce alcohol-impaired or drug-impaired operation of motor vehicles.

“(2) Increase use of seat belts by occupants of motor vehicles.

“(c) Advertising.—The Administrator may use, or authorize the use of, funds available to carry out this section to pay for the development, production, and use of broadcast and print media advertising and Internet-based outreach in carrying out traffic safety law enforcement campaigns under this section. Consideration shall be given to advertising directed at non-English speaking populations, including those who listen, read, or watch nontraditional media.

“(d) Coordination With States.—The Administrator shall coordinate with the States in carrying out the traffic safety law enforcement campaigns under this section, including advertising funded under subsection (c), with a view to—

“(1) relying on States to provide the law enforcement resources for the campaigns out of funding available under this section and sections 402, 405, [former] 406, and [former] 410 of title 23, United States Code; and

“(2) providing out of National Highway Traffic Safety Administration resources most of the means necessary for national advertising and education efforts associated with the law enforcement campaigns.

“(e) Use of Funds.—Funds made available to carry out this section may only be used for activities described in subsection (c).

“(f) State Defined.—The term ‘State’ has the meaning such term has under section 401 of title 23, United States Code.”

Motorcyclist Safety

Pub. L. 109–59, title II, §2010, Aug. 10, 2005, 119 Stat. 1535, as amended by Pub. L. 111–147, title IV, §421(i)(1), Mar. 18, 2010, 124 Stat. 85; Pub. L. 112–30, title I, §121(i)(1), Sept. 16, 2011, 125 Stat. 347, related to grants to States adopting programs for motorcyclist safety, prior to repeal by Pub. L. 112–141, div. C, title I, §31109(g), July 6, 2012, 126 Stat. 757.

First Responder Vehicle Safety Program

Pub. L. 109–59, title II, §2014, Aug. 10, 2005, 119 Stat. 1540, provided for a Federal program to promote compliance with State and local laws regarding first responder vehicle safety, prior to repeal by Pub. L. 112–141, div. C, title I, §31109(j), July 6, 2012, 126 Stat. 757.

Law Enforcement Training

Pub. L. 109–59, title II, §2017(b), Aug. 10, 2005, 119 Stat. 1542, as amended by Pub. L. 111–147, title IV, §421(n)(2), Mar. 18, 2010, 124 Stat. 86; Pub. L. 112–30, title I, §121(n)(2), Sept. 16, 2011, 125 Stat. 348, related to law enforcement training and police chase techniques, prior to repeal by Pub. L. 112–141, div. C, title I, §31109(l), July 6, 2012, 126 Stat. 757, effective Oct. 1, 2012.

National Bicycle Safety Education Curriculum

Pub. L. 105–178, title I, §1202(e), June 9, 1998, 112 Stat. 170, provided that:

“(1) Development.—The Secretary is authorized to develop a national bicycle safety education curriculum that may include courses relating to on-road training.

“(2) Report.—Not later than 12 months after the date of enactment of this Act [June 9, 1998], the Secretary shall transmit to Congress a copy of the curriculum.

“(3) Funding.—From amounts made available under section 210 [probably should be section 206], the Secretary may use not to exceed $500,000 for fiscal year 1999 to carry out this subsection.”

Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety Grants

Pub. L. 105–178, title I, §1212(i), formerly §1212(o), June 9, 1998, 112 Stat. 196; renumbered §1212(i), Pub. L. 105–206, title IX, §9003(e)(5), July 22, 1998, 112 Stat. 840, and amended by Pub. L. 108–88, §5(a)(8), Sept. 30, 2003, 117 Stat. 1114; Pub. L. 108–202, §5(a)(8), Feb. 29, 2004, 118 Stat. 481; Pub. L. 108–224, §4(a)(8), Apr. 30, 2004, 118 Stat. 629; Pub. L. 108–263, §4(a)(8), June 30, 2004, 118 Stat. 700; Pub. L. 108–280, §4(a)(8), July 30, 2004, 118 Stat. 879; Pub. L. 108–310, §5(a)(8), Sept. 30, 2004, 118 Stat. 1149; Pub. L. 109–14, §4(a)(8), May 31, 2005, 119 Stat. 326; Pub. L. 109–20, §4(a)(8), July 1, 2005, 119 Stat. 348; Pub. L. 109–35, §4(a)(8), July 20, 2005, 119 Stat. 381; Pub. L. 109–37, §4(a)(8), July 22, 2005, 119 Stat. 396; Pub. L. 109–40, §4(a)(8), July 28, 2005, 119 Stat. 412; Pub. L. 109–59, title I, §1111(b)(4), Aug. 10, 2005, 119 Stat. 1171, provided that:

“(1) In general.—The Secretary shall make grants to a national, not-for-profit organization engaged in promoting bicycle and pedestrian safety—

“(A) to operate a national bicycle and pedestrian clearinghouse;

“(B) to develop information and educational programs; and

“(C) to disseminate techniques and strategies for improving bicycle and pedestrian safety.

“(2) Authorization of appropriations.—There is authorized to be appropriated out of the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account) to carry out this subsection $500,000 for each of fiscal years 1998 through 2004 and $415,000 for the period of October 1, 2004, through July 30, 2005.

“(3) Applicability of title 23.—Funds authorized by this subsection shall be available for obligation in the same manner as if such funds were apportioned under chapter 1 of title 23, United States Code, except that the funds shall remain available until expended.”

Highway Safety Education and Information

Pub. L. 105–178, title II, §2001(f), June 9, 1998, 112 Stat. 325, provided that:

“(1) In general.—For fiscal years 1999 and 2000, the Secretary shall allow any State to use funds apportioned to the State under section 402 of title 23, United States Code, to purchase television and radio time for highway safety public service messages.

“(2) Reports by states.—Any State that uses funds described in paragraph (1) for purchasing television and radio time for highway safety public service messages shall submit to the Secretary a report describing, and assessing the effectiveness of, the messages.

“(3) Study.—Based on information contained in the reports submitted under paragraph (2), the Secretary shall prepare and transmit to Congress a report on the effectiveness of purchasing television and radio time for highway safety public service messages using funds described in paragraph (1).”

Evaluation of Handicapped Parking System

Pub. L. 102–240, title I, §1088, Dec. 18, 1991, 105 Stat. 2022, directed Secretary to conduct a study on progress being made by States in adopting and implementing uniform system for handicapped parking established in regulations issued pursuant to Pub. L. 100–641 (102 Stat. 3335), set out below, and, not later than 2 years after Dec. 18, 1991, submit to Congress the results of the study.

Obligation Limitation

Pub. L. 102–240, title II, §2009(b), Dec. 18, 1991, 105 Stat. 2080, provided that: “If an obligation limitation is placed on sums authorized to be appropriated to carry out section 402 of title 23, United States Code, for fiscal year 1993 or subsequent fiscal years, any amounts made available out of such funds to carry out sections 2004 and 2006 of this Act [amending section 410 of this title and enacting provisions set out as notes under sections 403 and 410 of this title] and section 211(b) of the National Driver Register Act of 1982 [Pub. L. 97–364, set out as a note under section 401 of this title] shall be reduced proportionally.”

Handicapped Parking System

Pub. L. 100–641, §3, Nov. 9, 1988, 102 Stat. 3335, provided that:

“(a) Regulations.—Not later than the 180th day following the date of the enactment of this Act [Nov. 9, 1988], the Secretary of Transportation shall issue regulations—

“(1) which establish a uniform system for handicapped parking designed to enhance the safety of handicapped individuals, and

“(2) which encourage adoption of such system by all the States.

In issuing such regulations, the Secretary shall consult the States.

“(b) Definitions.—For purposes of this section—

“(1) Uniform system for handicapped parking.—A uniform system for handicapped parking designed to enhance the safety of handicapped individuals is a system which—

“(A) adopts the International Symbol of Access (as adopted by Rehabilitation International in 1969 at its 11th World Congress on Rehabilitation of the Disabled) as the only recognized symbol for the identification of vehicles used for transporting individuals with handicaps which limit or impair the ability to walk;

“(B) provides for the issuance of license plates displaying the International Symbol of Access for vehicles which will be used to transport individuals with handicaps which limit or impair the ability to walk, under criteria determined by the State;

“(C) provides for the issuance of removable windshield placards (displaying the International Symbol of Access) to individuals with handicaps which limit or impair the ability to walk, under criteria determined by the State;

“(D) provides that fees charged for the licensing or registration of a vehicle used to transport individuals with handicaps do not exceed fees charged for the licensing or registration of other similar vehicles operated in the State; and

“(E) for purposes of easy access parking, recognizes licenses and placards displaying the International Symbol of Access which have been issued by other States and countries.

“(2) State.—The term ‘State’ has the meaning such term has when used in chapter 4 of title 23, United States Code.”

Parking for Handicapped Persons; Study and Report; Proposed Uniform State Law

Pub. L. 100–17, title I, §161, Apr. 2, 1987, 101 Stat. 212, provided that:

“(a) Study.—The Secretary shall conduct a study for the purpose of determining—

“(1) any problems encountered by handicapped persons in parking motor vehicles; and

“(2) whether or not each State should establish parking privileges for handicapped persons and grant to nonresidents of the State the same parking privileges as are granted to residents.

“(b) Report.—Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Apr. 2, 1987], the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Public Works and Transportation of the House of Representatives a report on the results of the study conducted under subsection (a).

“(c) Development of Proposed Uniform State Law.—

“(1) Requirement.—If the Secretary determines under subsection (a) that each State should establish parking privileges for handicapped persons and grant to nonresidents of the State the same parking privileges as are granted to residents, the Secretary shall develop a proposed uniform State law with respect to parking privileges for handicapped persons and submit a copy of the proposed uniform State law to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Public Works and Transportation of the House of Representatives and each State.

“(2) Factors to consider.—In developing the proposed uniform State law, the Secretary shall consult with the States and shall consider any advantages—

“(A) of ensuring that parking privileges for handicapped persons may be utilized whether a handicapped person is a passenger or a driver;

“(B) of the use of the international symbol of access as the exclusive symbol identifying parking zones for handicapped persons and identifying vehicles that may park in such parking zones;

“(C) of displaying the international symbol of access on license plates or license plate decals and on identification placards; and

“(D) of designing any identification placard so that the placard is easily visible when placed in the interior of any vehicle.

“(3) Report.—If a proposed uniform State law with respect to parking privileges for handicapped persons is developed and submitted to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Public Works and Transportation [now Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure] of the House of Representatives under paragraph (1), within 12 months after the date of such submission and each year thereafter, the Secretary shall report to such committees on the extent to which each State has adopted the proposed uniform State law.”

[For termination, effective May 15, 2000, of provisions of law requiring submittal to Congress of any annual, semiannual, or other regular periodic report listed in House Document No. 103–7 (in which a report required under section 161(c)(3) of Pub. L. 100–17, set out above, is listed on page 133), see section 3003 of Pub. L. 104–66, as amended, set out as a note under section 1113 of Title 31, Money and Finance.]

Schoolbus Safety Measures; Study by National Academy of Sciences and Report; Publication of List of Most Effective Safety Measures in Federal Register; Schoolbus Safety Grant Program

Pub. L. 100–17, title II, §204, Apr. 2, 1987, 101 Stat. 219, provided that:

“(a) Study.—

“(1) National academy of sciences.—Not later than 30 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Apr. 2, 1987], the Secretary shall undertake to enter into appropriate arrangements with the National Academy of Sciences to conduct a comprehensive study and investigation of the principal causes of fatalities and injuries to schoolchildren riding in schoolbuses and of the use of seatbelts in schoolbuses and other measures that may improve the safety of schoolbus transportation. The purpose of the study and investigation is to determine those safety measures that are the most effective in protecting the safety of schoolchildren while boarding, leaving, and riding in schoolbuses.

“(2) Report.—In entering into any arrangements with the National Academy of Sciences for conducting the study and investigation under this subsection, the Secretary shall request the National Academy of Sciences to submit, not later than 18 months after the date on which such arrangements are completed, to Congress and the Secretary a report on the results of such study and investigation. The report shall contain a list of those safety measures determined by the Academy to be most effective in protecting the safety of schoolchildren while boarding, leaving, and riding in schoolbuses.

“(3) Review of report.—Upon receipt of the report under paragraph (2), the Secretary shall review such report for the purpose of determining those safety measures that are the most effective in protecting the safety of schoolchildren while boarding, leaving, and riding in schoolbuses. Not later than 2 months after the date of receipt of such report, the Secretary shall publish in the Federal Register a list of those safety measures which the Secretary determines are the most effective in protecting the safety of such children.

“(4) Information.—Upon request of the National Academy of Sciences, the Secretary shall furnish to the Academy any information which the Academy deems necessary for the purpose of conducting the study and investigation under this subsection.

“(b) Schoolbus Safety Grant Program.—

“(1) Set-aside.—Before apportioning any funds made available to carry out section 402 of title 23, United States Code, for each of fiscal years 1989, 1990, and 1991, the Secretary may set aside an amount not to exceed $5,000,000 for making grants to States to implement those schoolbus safety measures published by the Secretary under subsection (a).

“(2) Application.—Any State interested in receiving under this subsection a grant to implement schoolbus safety measures in fiscal year 1989, 1990, or 1991 shall submit to the Secretary an application for such grant. Applications under this subsection shall be submitted at such time and in such form and contain such information as the Secretary may require by regulation.

“(3) Limitation.—No State shall receive more than 30 percent of the funds set aside pursuant to this subsection for any fiscal year in grants under this subsection.”

Special Parking Privileges for Handicapped Persons

Pub. L. 98–78, title III, §321, Aug. 15, 1983, 97 Stat. 473, provided that:

“(a) The Congress finds that—

“(1) in this Nation there exist millions of handicapped people with severe physical impairments including partial paralysis, limb amputation, chronic heart condition, emphysema, arthritis, rheumatism, and other debilitating conditions which greatly limit their personal mobility;

“(2) these people reside in each of the several States and have need and reason to travel from one State to another for business and recreational purposes;

“(3) each State maintains the right to establish and enforce its own code of regulations regarding the appropriate use of motor vehicles operating within its jurisdiction;

“(4) within a given State handicapped individuals are oftentimes granted special parking privileges to help offset the limitations imposed by their physical impairment;

“(5) these special parking privileges vary from State to State as do the methods and means of identifying vehicles used by disabled individuals, all of which serve to impede both the enforcement of special parking privileges and the handicapped individual's freedom to properly utilize such privileges;

“(6) there are many efforts currently underway to help alleviate these problems through public awareness and administrative change as encouraged by concerned individuals and national associations directly involved in matters relating to the issue of special parking privileges for disabled individuals; and

“(7) despite these efforts the fact remains that many States may need to give the matter legislative consideration to ensure a proper resolution of this issue, especially as it relates to law enforcement and placard responsibility.

“(b) The Congress encourages each of the several States working through the National Governors Conference to—

“(1) adopt the International Symbol of Access as the only recognized and adopted symbol to be used to identify vehicles carrying those citizens with acknowledged physical impairments;

“(2) grant to vehicles displaying this symbol the special parking privileges which a State may provide; and

“(3) permit the International Symbol of Access to appear either on a specialized license plate, or on a specialized placard placed in the vehicles so as to be clearly visible through the front windshield, or on both such places.

“(c) It is the sense of the Congress that agreements of reciprocity relating to the special parking privileges granted handicapped individuals should be developed and entered into by and between the several States so as to—

“(1) facilitate the free and unencumbered use between the several States, of the special parking privileges afforded those people with acknowledged handicapped conditions, without regard to the State of residence of the handicapped person utilizing such privilege;

“(2) improve the ease of law enforcement in each State of its special parking privileges and to facilitate the handling of violators; and

“(3) ensure that motor vehicles carrying individuals with acknowledged handicapped conditions be given fair and predictable treatment throughout the Nation.

“(d) As used in this section the term ‘State’ means the several States and the District of Columbia.

“(e) The Secretary of Transportation shall provide a copy of this section to the Governor of each State and the Mayor of the District of Columbia.”

Motorcycle Helmet Study

Pub. L. 95–599, title II, §210, Nov. 6, 1978, 92 Stat. 2733, provided that the Secretary of Transportation make a full and complete study of the effects of the provision contained in the eighth sentence of subsec. (c) of this section and that the Secretary report the results of such study to Congress not later than one year after Nov. 6, 1978.

Study of Methods of Encouraging Use of Safety Belts in Automobiles

Pub. L. 95–599, title II, §214, Nov. 6, 1978, 92 Stat. 2734, provided that the Secretary of Transportation undertake to enter into arrangements with the National Academy of Sciences to conduct a study and investigation of methods of encouraging the use of safety belts by drivers of, and passengers in, motor vehicles and that the National Academy of Sciences report to the Secretary and the Congress not later than one year after Nov. 6, 1978, on the results of such study.

Evaluation of Safety Standards; Report to Congress

Pub. L. 94–280, title II, §208(b), May 5, 1976, 90 Stat. 454, provided that: “The Secretary of Transportation shall, in cooperation with the States, conduct an evaluation of the adequacy and appropriateness of all uniform safety standards established under section 402 of title 23 of the United States Code which are in effect on the date of enactment of this Act [May 5, 1976]. The Secretary shall report his findings, together with his recommendations, including but not limited to, the need for revision or consolidation of existing standards and the establishment of new standards, to Congress on or before July 1, 1977. Until such report is submitted, the Secretary shall not, pursuant to subsection (c) of section 402 of title 23, United States Code, withhold any apportionment or any funds apportioned to any State because such State is failing to implement a highway safety program approved by the Secretary in accordance with such section 402.”

Report to Congress by July 1, 1967, on Initial Standards

Pub. L. 89–564, title II, §203, Sept. 9, 1966, 80 Stat. 736, required the Secretary of Commerce to report to Congress by July 1, 1967, all standards to be initially applied in carrying out section 402 of this title.

Authorization of Appropriations

Pub. L. 89–564, title I, §104, Sept. 9, 1966, 80 Stat. 735, authorized the appropriation of $67,000,000, $100,000,000, and $100,000,000 for the fiscal years ending June 30, 1967, 1968, and 1969, respectively, to carry out this section.

Study of Relationship Between Consumption of Alcohol and Highway Safety

Pub. L. 89–564, title II, §204, Sept. 9, 1966, 80 Stat. 736, as amended by Pub. L. 97–449, §2(a), Jan. 12, 1983, 96 Stat. 2439, directed the Secretary to make a thorough and complete study of the relationship between the consumption of alcohol and its effect upon highway safety and drivers of motor vehicles, in consultation with such other government and private agencies as may be necessary. Such study shall cover review and evaluation of State and local laws and enforcement methods and procedures relating to driving under the influence of alcohol, State and local programs for the treatment of alcoholism, and such other aspects of this overall problem as may be useful. The results of this study were required to be reported to the Congress by the Secretary on or before July 1, 1967, with recommendations for legislation if warranted.

Ex. Ord. No. 13043. Increasing Seat Belt Use in the United States

Ex. Ord. No. 13043, Apr. 16, 1997, 62 F.R. 19217, provided:

By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including the Highway Safety Act of 1966, 23 U.S.C. 402 and 403, as amended, section 7902(c) of title 5, United States Code, and section 19 of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, 29 U.S.C. 668, as amended, and in order to require that Federal employees use seat belts while on official business; to require that motor vehicle occupants use seat belts in national park areas and on Department of Defense (“Defense”) installations; to encourage Tribal Governments to adopt and enforce seat belt policies and programs for occupants of motor vehicles traveling on highways in Indian Country; and to encourage Federal contractors, subcontractors, and grantees to adopt and enforce on-the-job seat belt use policies and programs, it is hereby ordered as follows:

Section 1. Policies. (a) Seat Belt Use by Federal Employees. Each Federal employee occupying any seating position of a motor vehicle on official business, whose seat is equipped with a seat belt, shall have the seat belt properly fastened at all times when the vehicle is in motion.

(b) Seat Belt Use in National Parks and on Defense Installations. Each operator and passenger occupying any seating position of a motor vehicle in a national park area or on a Defense installation, whose seat is equipped with a seat belt or child restraint system, shall have the seat belt or child restraint system properly fastened, as required by law, at all times when the vehicle is in motion.

(c) Seat Belt Use by Government Contractors, Subcontractors and Grantees. Each Federal agency, in contracts, subcontracts, and grants entered into after the date of this order, shall seek to encourage contractors, subcontractors, and grantees to adopt and enforce on-the-job seat belt policies and programs for their employees when operating company-owned, rented, or personally owned vehicles.

(d) Tribal Governments. Tribal Governments are encouraged to adopt and enforce seat belt policies and programs for occupants of motor vehicles traveling on highways in Indian Country that are subject to their jurisdiction.

Sec. 2. Scope of Order. All agencies of the executive branch are directed to promulgate rules and take other appropriate measures within their existing programs to further the policies of this order. This includes, but is not limited to, conducting education, awareness, and other appropriate programs for Federal employees about the importance of wearing seat belts and the consequences of not wearing them. It also includes encouraging Federal contractors, subcontractors, and grantees to conduct such programs. In addition, the National Park Service and the Department of Defense are directed to initiate rulemaking to consider regulatory changes with respect to enhanced seat belt use requirements and standard (primary) enforcement of such requirements in national park areas and on Defense installations, consistent with the policies outlined in this order, and to widely publicize and actively enforce such regulations. The term “agency” as used in this order means an Executive department, as defined in 5 U.S.C. 101, or any employing unit or authority of the Federal Government, other than those of the legislative and judicial branches.

Sec. 3. Coordination. The Secretary of Transportation shall provide leadership and guidance to the heads of executive branch agencies to assist them with the employee seat belt programs established pursuant to this order. The Secretary of Transportation shall also cooperate and consult with the legislative and judicial branches of the Government to encourage and help them to adopt seat belt use programs.

Sec. 4. Reporting Requirements. The Secretary of Transportation, in cooperation with the heads of executive branch agencies, and after consultation with the judicial and legislative branches of Government, shall submit an annual report to the President. The report shall include seat belt use rates and statistics of crashes, injuries, and related costs involving Federal employees on official business and occupants of motor vehicles driven in national park areas, on Defense installations, and on highways in Indian Country. The report also shall identify specific agency programs that have made significant progress towards achieving the goals of this order or are notable and deserving of recognition. All agencies of the executive branch shall provide information to, and otherwise cooperate with, the Secretary of Transportation to assist with the preparation of the annual report.

Sec. 5. Other Powers and Duties. Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or alter the powers and duties of the heads of the various Federal agencies pursuant to the Highway Safety Act of 1966, 23 U.S.C. 402 and 403, as amended, section 19 of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, 29 U.S.C. 668, as amended, or sections 7901, 7902, and 7903 of title 5, United States Code, nor shall it be construed to affect any right, duty, or procedure under the National Labor Relations Act, 29 U.S.C. 151 et seq.

Sec. 6. General Provisions. (a) Executive Order 12566 of September 26, 1986, is revoked. To the extent that this order is inconsistent with any provisions of any prior Executive order, this order shall control.

(b) If any provision of this order or application of any such provision is held to be invalid, the remainder of this order and other applications of such provision shall not be affected.

(c) Nothing in this order shall be construed to create a new cause of action against the United States, or to alter in any way the United States liability under the Federal Tort Claims Act, 28 U.S.C. 2671-2680.

(d) The Secretary of Defense shall implement the provisions of this order insofar as practicable for vehicles of the Department of Defense.

(e) The Secretary of the Treasury and the Attorney General, consistent with their protective and law enforcement responsibilities, shall determine the extent to which the requirements of this order apply to the protective and law enforcement activities of their respective agencies.

William J. Clinton.      

Ex. Ord. No. 13513. Federal Leadership On Reducing Text Messaging While Driving

Ex. Ord. No. 13513, Oct. 1, 2009, 74 F.R. 51225, provided:

By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including section 7902(c) of title 5, United States Code, and the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949, as amended, 40 U.S.C. 101 et seq. [see Short Title of 1949 Act note set out under section 101 of Title 41, Public Contracts], and in order to demonstrate Federal leadership in improving safety on our roads and highways and to enhance the efficiency of Federal contracting, it is hereby ordered as follows:

Section 1. Policy. With nearly 3 million civilian employees, the Federal Government can and should demonstrate leadership in reducing the dangers of text messaging while driving. Recent deadly crashes involving drivers distracted by text messaging while behind the wheel highlight a growing danger on our roads. Text messaging causes drivers to take their eyes off the road and at least one hand off the steering wheel, endangering both themselves and others. Every day, Federal employees drive Government-owned, Government-leased, or Government-rented vehicles (collectively, GOV) or privately-owned vehicles (POV) on official Government business, and some Federal employees use Government-supplied electronic devices to text or e-mail while driving. A Federal Government-wide prohibition on the use of text messaging while driving on official business or while using Government-supplied equipment will help save lives, reduce injuries, and set an example for State and local governments, private employers, and individual drivers. Extending this policy to cover Federal contractors is designed to promote economy and efficiency in Federal procurement. Federal contractors and contractor employees who refrain from the unsafe practice of text messaging while driving in connection with Government business are less likely to experience disruptions to their operations that would adversely impact Federal procurement.

Sec. 2. Text Messaging While Driving by Federal Employees. Federal employees shall not engage in text messaging (a) when driving GOV, or when driving POV while on official Government business, or (b) when using electronic equipment supplied by the Government while driving.

Sec. 3. Scope of Order. (a) All agencies of the executive branch are directed to take appropriate action within the scope of their existing programs to further the policies of this order and to implement section 2 of this order. This includes, but is not limited to, considering new rules and programs, and reevaluating existing programs to prohibit text messaging while driving, and conducting education, awareness, and other outreach for Federal employees about the safety risks associated with texting while driving. These initiatives should encourage voluntary compliance with the agency's text messaging policy while off duty.

(b) Within 90 days of the date of this order, each agency is directed, consistent with all applicable laws and regulations: (i) to take appropriate measures to implement this order, (ii) to adopt measures to ensure compliance with section 2 of this order, including through appropriate disciplinary actions, and (iii) to notify the Secretary of Transportation of the measures it undertakes hereunder.

(c) Agency heads may exempt from the requirements of this order, in whole or in part, certain employees, devices, or vehicles in their respective agencies that are engaged in or used for protective, law enforcement, or national security responsibilities or on the basis of other emergency conditions.

Sec. 4. Text Messaging While Driving by Government Contractors, Subcontractors, and Recipients and Subrecipients. Each Federal agency, in procurement contracts, grants, and cooperative agreements, and other grants to the extent authorized by applicable statutory authority, entered into after the date of this order, shall encourage contractors, subcontractors, and recipients and subrecipients to adopt and enforce policies that ban text messaging while driving company-owned or -rented vehicles or GOV, or while driving POV when on official Government business or when performing any work for or on behalf of the Government. Agencies should also encourage Federal contractors, subcontractors, and grant recipients and subrecipients as described in this section to conduct initiatives of the type described in section 3(a) of this order.

Sec. 5. Coordination. The Secretary of Transportation, in consultation with the Administrator of General Services and the Director of the Office of Personnel Management, shall provide leadership and guidance to the heads of executive branch agencies to assist them with any action pursuant to this order.

Sec. 6. Definitions.

(a) The term “agency” as used in this order means an executive agency, as defined in 5 U.S.C. 105, except for the Government Accountability Office.

(b) “Texting” or “Text Messaging” means reading from or entering data into any handheld or other electronic device, including for the purpose of SMS texting, e-mailing, instant messaging, obtaining navigational information, or engaging in any other form of electronic data retrieval or electronic data communication.

(c) “Driving” means operating a motor vehicle on an active roadway with the motor running, including while temporarily stationary because of traffic, a traffic light or stop sign, or otherwise. It does not include operating a motor vehicle with or without the motor running when one has pulled over to the side of, or off, an active roadway and has halted in a location where one can safely remain stationary.

Sec. 7. General Provisions. (a) Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect or alter:

(i) Authority granted by law or Executive Order to an agency, or the head thereof;

(ii) Powers and duties of the heads of the various departments and agencies pursuant to the Highway Safety Act of 1966, as amended, 23 U.S.C. 402 and 403, section 19 of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, as amended, 29 U.S.C. 668, sections 7901 and 7902 of title 5, United States Code, or the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949, as amended, 40 U.S.C. 101 et seq.;

(iii) Rights, duties, or procedures under the National Labor Relations Act, 29 U.S.C. 151 et seq.; or

(iv) Functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.

(b) This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.

(c) This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity, by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.

Barack Obama.      

§403. Highway safety research and development

(a) Defined Term.—In this section, the term “Federal laboratory” includes—

(1) a government-owned, government-operated laboratory; and

(2) a government-owned, contractor-operated laboratory.


(b) General Authority.—

(1) Research and development activities.—The Secretary may conduct research and development activities, including demonstration projects and the collection and analysis of highway and motor vehicle safety data and related information needed to carry out this section, with respect to—

(A) all aspects of highway and traffic safety systems and conditions relating to—

(i) vehicle, highway, driver, passenger, motorcyclist, bicyclist, and pedestrian characteristics;

(ii) accident causation and investigations;

(iii) communications; and

(iv) emergency medical services, including the transportation of the injured;


(B) human behavioral factors and their effect on highway and traffic safety, including—

(i) driver education;

(ii) impaired driving; and

(iii) distracted driving;


(C) an evaluation of the effectiveness of countermeasures to increase highway and traffic safety, including occupant protection and alcohol- and drug-impaired driving technologies and initiatives;

(D) the development of technologies to detect drug impaired drivers;

(E) research on, evaluations of, and identification of best practices related to driver education programs (including driver education curricula, instructor training and certification, program administration, and delivery mechanisms) and make recommendations for harmonizing driver education and multistage graduated licensing systems; and

(F) the effect of State laws on any aspects, activities, or programs described in subparagraphs (A) through (E).


(2) Cooperation, grants, and contracts.—The Secretary may carry out this section—

(A) independently;

(B) in cooperation with other Federal departments, agencies, and instrumentalities and Federal laboratories;

(C) by entering into contracts, cooperative agreements, and other transactions with the National Academy of Sciences, any Federal laboratory, State or local agency, authority, association, institution, or person (as defined in chapter 1 of title 1); or

(D) by making grants to the National Academy of Sciences, any Federal laboratory, State or local agency, authority, association, institution, or person (as defined in chapter 1 of title 1).


(c) Collaborative Research and Development.—

(1) In general.—To encourage innovative solutions to highway safety problems, stimulate voluntary improvements in highway safety, and stimulate the marketing of new highway safety related technology by private industry, the Secretary is authorized to carry out, on a cost-shared basis, collaborative research and development with—

(A) non-Federal entities, including State and local governments, colleges, universities, corporations, partnerships, sole proprietorships, organizations, and trade associations that are incorporated or established under the laws of any State or the United States; and

(B) Federal laboratories.


(2) Agreements.—In carrying out this subsection, the Secretary may enter into cooperative research and development agreements (as defined in section 12 of the Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act of 1980 (15 U.S.C. 3710a)) in which the Secretary provides not more than 50 percent of the cost of any research or development project under this subsection.

(3) Use of technology.—The research, development, or use of any technology pursuant to an agreement under this subsection, including the terms under which technology may be licensed and the resulting royalties may be distributed, shall be subject to the provisions of the Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act of 1980 (15 U.S.C. 3701 et seq.).


(d) Title to Equipment.—In furtherance of the purposes set forth in section 402, the Secretary may vest title to equipment purchased for demonstration projects with funds authorized under this section to State or local agencies on such terms and conditions as the Secretary determines to be appropriate.

(e) Prohibition on Certain Disclosures.—Any report of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, or of any officer, employee, or contractor of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, relating to any highway traffic accident or the investigation of such accident conducted pursuant to this chapter or chapter 301 may only be made available to the public in a manner that does not identify individuals.

(f) Cooperative Research and Evaluation.—

(1) Establishment and funding.—Notwithstanding the apportionment formula set forth in section 402(c)(2), $2,500,000 of the total amount available for apportionment to the States for highway safety programs under subsection 1 402(c) in each fiscal year shall be available for expenditure by the Secretary, acting through the Administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, for a cooperative research and evaluation program to research and evaluate priority highway safety countermeasures.

(2) Administration.—The program established under paragraph (1)—

(A) shall be administered by the Administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration; and

(B) shall be jointly managed by the Governors Highway Safety Association and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.


(g) International Cooperation.—The Administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration may participate and cooperate in international activities to enhance highway safety.

(h) In-vehicle Alcohol Detection Device Research.—

(1) In general.—The Administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration may carry out a collaborative research effort under chapter 301 of title 49 on in-vehicle technology to prevent alcohol-impaired driving.

(2) Funding.—Funds provided under section 405 may be made to be used by the Secretary to conduct the research described in paragraph (1).

(3) Privacy protection.—If the Administrator utilizes the authority under paragraph (1), the Administrator shall not develop requirements for any device or means of technology to be installed in an automobile intended for retail sale that records a driver's blood alcohol concentration.

(4) Reports.—If the Administrator conducts the research authorized under paragraph (1), the Administrator shall submit an annual report to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate, the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives, and Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives that—

(A) describes the progress made in carrying out the collaborative research effort; and

(B) includes an accounting for the use of Federal funds obligated or expended in carrying out that effort.


(5) Definitions.—In this subsection:

(A) Alcohol-impaired driving.—The term “alcohol-impaired driving” means the operation of a motor vehicle (as defined in section 30102(a)(6) of title 49) by an individual whose blood alcohol content is at or above the legal limit.

(B) Legal limit.—The term “legal limit” means a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 percent or greater (as set forth in section 163(a)) or such other percentage limitation as may be established by applicable Federal, State, or local law.

(Added Pub. L. 89–564, title I, §101, Sept. 9, 1966, 80 Stat. 733; amended Pub. L. 93–87, title II, §§208(a), 220–222, 226(a), Aug. 13, 1973, 87 Stat. 286, 291, 292; Pub. L. 102–240, title II, §2003, Dec. 18, 1991, 105 Stat. 2071; Pub. L. 105–178, title II, §2002(a), (b)(1), June 9, 1998, 112 Stat. 325; Pub. L. 109–59, title II, §§2003(a), (b), 2013(e), Aug. 10, 2005, 119 Stat. 1522, 1540; Pub. L. 112–141, div. C, title I, §31103, July 6, 2012, 126 Stat. 739.)

References in Text

The Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act of 1980, referred to in subsec. (c)(3), is Pub. L. 96–480, Oct. 21, 1980, 94 Stat. 2311, which is classified generally to chapter 63 (§3701 et seq.) of Title 15, Commerce and Trade. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 3701 of Title 15 and Tables.

Amendments

2012—Subsecs. (a) to (f). Pub. L. 112–141, §31103(1), added subsecs. (a) to (f) and struck out former subsecs. (a) to (f) which related to authority of the Secretary generally, drugs and driver behavior, authority of Secretary to conduct research through grants and contracts with public and private agencies, institutions, and individuals, authority of Secretary to vest title to equipment purchased for demonstration projects in State and local agencies, authority of Secretary relating to projects to demonstrate the administrative adjudication of traffic infractions, and collaborative research and development, respectively.

Subsec. (h). Pub. L. 112–141, §31103(2), added subsec. (h).

2005—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 109–59, §2003(a), reenacted heading without change and amended text of subsec. (a) generally, substituting provisions relating to authority of Secretary to use funds for highway safety research programs for former provisions which related to, in par. (1), general authority of Secretary, in par. (2), additional authority of Secretary, and, in par. (3), definition of “safety”.

Subsec. (b)(5), (6). Pub. L. 109–59, §2013(e), added pars. (5) and (6).

Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 109–59, §2003(b), added subsec. (g).

1998—Subsec. (a)(2)(A). Pub. L. 105–178, §2002(a), inserted “, including training in work zone safety management” after “personnel”.

Subsec. (b)(3), (4). Pub. L. 105–178, §2002(b)(1), added pars. (3) and (4).

1991—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 102–240, §2003(a), added subsec. (a) and struck out former subsec. (a) which read as follows: “The Secretary is authorized to use funds appropriated to carry out this subsection to carry out safety research which he is authorized to conduct by subsection (a) of section 307 of this title. In addition, the Secretary may use the funds appropriated to carry out this section, either independently or in cooperation with other Federal departments or agencies, for making grants to or contracting with State or local agencies, institutions, and individuals for (1) training or education of highway safety personnel, (2) research fellowships in highway safety, (3) development of improved accident investigation procedures, (4) emergency service plans, (5) demonstration projects, and (6) related activities which the Secretary deems will promote the purposes of this section. The Secretary shall assure that no fees are charged for any meetings or services attendant thereto or other activities relating to training and education of highway safety personnel.”

Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 102–240, §2003(a), added subsec. (b) and struck out former subsec. (b) which read as follows: “In addition to the research authorized by subsection (a) of this section, the Secretary, in consultation with such other Government and private agencies as may be necessary, is authorized to carry out safety research on the following:

“(1) The relationship between the consumption and use of drugs and their effect upon highway safety and drivers of motor vehicles; and

“(2) Driver behavior research, including the characteristics of driver performance, the relationships of mental and physical abilities or disabilities to the driving task, and the relationship of frequency of driver accident involvement to highway safety.”

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 102–240, §2003(c), substituted “subsections (a) and (b)” for “subsection (b)”.

Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 102–240, §2003(b), added subsec. (f) and struck out former subsec. (f) which read as follows: “In addition to the research authorized by subsection (a) of this section, the Secretary shall carry out research, development, and demonstration projects to improve and evaluate the effectiveness of various types of driver education programs in reducing traffic accidents and deaths, injuries, and property damage resulting therefrom. The research, development, and demonstration projects authorized by this subsection may be carried out by the Secretary through grants and contracts with public and private agencies, institutions, and individuals. The Secretary shall report to the Congress by July 1, 1975, and each year thereafter during the continuance of the program, on the research, development, and demonstration projects authorized by this subsection, and shall include in such report an evaluation of the effectiveness of driver education programs in reducing traffic accidents and deaths, injuries, and property damage resulting therefrom.”

1973—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 93–87, §§208(a), 220, designated existing provisions as subsec. (a); substituted in first sentence “this subsection” for “this section”; substituted in second sentence “for making grants to or contracting with State or local agencies, institutions, and individuals for (1) training or education of highway safety personnel” for “for (1) grants to State or local agencies, institutions, and individuals for training or education of highway safety personnel” and “(6) related activities which the Secretary deems will promote the purposes of this section” for (6) related activities which are deemed by the Secretary to be necessary to carry out the purposes of this section”; and inserted requirement that the Secretary assure that no fees be charged for any meeting or services attendant thereto or other activities relating to training and education of highway safety personnel.

Subsecs. (b), (c). Pub. L. 93–87, §208(a), added subsecs. (b) and (c).

Subsecs. (d) to (f). Pub. L. 93–87, §§221, 222, 226(a), added subsecs. (d) to (f).

Effective Date of 2012 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 112–141 effective Oct. 1, 2012, see section 3(a) of Pub. L. 112–141, set out as an Effective and Termination Dates of 2012 Amendment note under section 101 of this title.

Effective Date of 2005 Amendment

Amendment by section 2003(a), (b) of Pub. L. 109–59 effective Oct. 1, 2005, see section 2022 of Pub. L. 109–59, set out as a note under section 402 of this title.

Effective Date of 1991 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 102–240, except as otherwise provided, effective Dec. 18, 1991, and applicable to funds authorized to be appropriated or made available after Sept. 30, 1991, and not applicable to funds appropriated or made available on or before Dec. 18, 1991, see section 2008 of Pub. L. 102–240, set out as a note under section 402 of this title.

Termination of Reporting Requirements

For termination, effective May 15, 2000, of provisions of law requiring submittal to Congress of any annual, semiannual, or other regular periodic report listed in House Document No. 103–7 (in which a report required under subsec. (e) of this section is listed on page 134), see section 3003 of Pub. L. 104–66, as amended, set out as a note under section 1113 of Title 31, Money and Finance.

Research on Distracted, Inattentive, and Fatigued Drivers

Pub. L. 109–59, title II, §2003(d), Aug. 10, 2005, 119 Stat. 1523, provided that: “In conducting research under section 403(a)(3) of title 23, United States Code, the Secretary [of Transportation] shall carry out not less than 2 demonstration projects to evaluate new and innovative means of combating traffic system problems caused by distracted, inattentive, or fatigued drivers. The demonstration projects shall be in addition to any other research carried out under such section.”

Drug-Impaired Driving Enforcement

Pub. L. 109–59, title II, §2013, Aug. 10, 2005, 119 Stat. 1539, as amended by Pub. L. 111–147, title IV, §421(m), Mar. 18, 2010, 124 Stat. 86; Pub. L. 112–30, title I, §121(m), Sept. 16, 2011, 125 Stat. 348, related to agency coordination and research on drug-impaired driving enforcement, prior to repeal by Pub. L. 112–141, div. C, title I, §31109(i), July 6, 2012, 126 Stat. 757.

Safety Studies

Pub. L. 105–178, title II, §2007, June 9, 1998, 112 Stat. 336, provided that:

“(a) Blowout Resistant Tires Study.—The Secretary shall conduct a study on the benefit to public safety of the use of blowout resistant tires on commercial motor vehicles and the potential to decrease the incidence of accidents and fatalities from accidents occurring as a result of blown out tires.

“(b) School Bus Occupant Safety Study.—The Secretary shall conduct a study to assess occupant safety in school buses. The study shall examine available information about occupant safety and analyze options for improving occupant safety.

“(c) Reports.—Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act [June 9, 1998], the Secretary shall transmit to Congress a report on the results of each study conducted under this section.

“(d) Limitation on Funding.—The Secretary may not expend more than $200,000 from funds made available by section 403 of title 23, United States Code, for conducting each study under this section.”

School Transportation Safety

Pub. L. 105–178, title IV, §4030, June 9, 1998, 112 Stat. 418, provided that:

“(a) Study.—Not later than 3 months after the date of enactment of this Act [June 9, 1998], the Secretary shall offer to enter into an agreement with the Transportation Research Board of the National Academy of Sciences to conduct, subject to the availability of appropriations, a study of the safety issues attendant to the transportation of school children to and from school and school-related activities by various transportation modes.

“(b) Terms of Agreement.—The agreement under subsection (a) shall provide that—

“(1) the Transportation Research Board, in conducting the study, shall consider—

“(A) in consultation with the National Transportation Safety Board, the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, and other relevant entities, available crash injury data;

“(B) vehicle design and driver training requirements, routing, and operational factors that affect safety; and

“(C) other factors that the Secretary considers to be appropriate;

“(2) if the data referred to in paragraph (1)(A) is unavailable or insufficient, the Transportation Research Board shall recommend a new data collection regimen and implementation guidelines; and

“(3) a panel shall conduct the study and shall include—

“(A) representatives of—

“(i) highway safety organizations;

“(ii) school transportation;

“(iii) mass transportation operators;

“(iv) employee organizations; and

“(v) bicycling organizations;

“(B) academic and policy analysts; and

“(C) other interested parties.

“(c) Report.—Not later than 12 months after the Secretary enters into an agreement under subsection (a), the Secretary shall transmit 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 contains the results of the study.

“(d) Authorization.—There are authorized to be appropriated to the Department of Transportation to carry out this section $200,000 for fiscal year 2000 and $200,000 for fiscal year 2001. Such sums shall remain available until expended.”

Drug Recognition Expert Training Program

Pub. L. 102–240, title II, §2006, Dec. 18, 1991, 105 Stat. 2079, provided that:

“(a) Establishment.—The Secretary, acting through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, shall establish a regional program for implementation of drug recognition programs and for training law enforcement officers (including enforcement officials under the motor carrier safety assistance program) to recognize and identify individuals who are operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or one or more controlled substances or other drugs.

“(b) Advisory Committee.—The Secretary shall establish a citizens advisory committee that shall report to Congress annually on the progress of the implementation of subsection (a). Members of the committee shall include 1 member of each of the following: Mothers Against Drunk Driving; a narcotics control organization; American Medical Association; American Bar Association; and such other organizations as the Secretary deems appropriate. The committee shall be subject to the provisions of the [Federal] Advisory Committee Act [5 U.S.C. App.] and shall terminate 2 years after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 18, 1991].

“(c) Authorization of Appropriations.—There is authorized to be appropriated out of the Highway Trust Fund (other than the Mass Transit Account) to carry out this section $4,000,000 for each of fiscal years 1992 through 1997.

“(d) Definition.—For purposes of this section, the term ‘controlled substance’ means any controlled substance, as defined under section 102(6) of the Controlled Substances Act (21 U.S.C. 802(6)), whose use the Secretary has determined poses a risk to transportation safety.”

Pilot Program for Drug Recognition Expert Training

Pub. L. 100–690, title IX, §9004, Nov. 18, 1988, 102 Stat. 4525, provided that:

“(a) Establishment.—The Secretary of Transportation, acting through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, shall establish a 3-year pilot, regional program for training law enforcement officers to recognize and identify individuals who are operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or 1 or more controlled substances or other drugs.

“(b) Report.—Not later than 1 year after the completion of the pilot program under this section, the Secretary of Transportation shall transmit to Congress a report on the effectiveness of such pilot program together with any recommendations.

“(c) Authorization of Appropriations.—There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $5,000,000 for fiscal year 1989, $7,000,000 for fiscal year 1990, and $9,000,000 for fiscal year 1991. Such sums shall remain available until expended.”

Pilot Grant Program for Random Testing for Illegal Drug Use

Pub. L. 100–690, title IX, §9005, Nov. 18, 1988, 102 Stat. 4526, provided that:

“(a) Establishment of Pilot Program.—The Secretary shall design, within 9 months after the date of the enactment of this Act [Nov. 18, 1988], and implement, within 15 months after the date of the enactment of this Act, a pilot State grant program for the purpose of testing individuals described in subsection (e)(1) to determine whether such individuals have used, without lawful authorization, a controlled substance.

“(b) State Participation.—The Secretary shall solicit the participation of States from those States interested in participating in such a program not more than 4 States to participate in the program.

“(c) State Selection Process.—The Secretary shall ensure that the selection made pursuant to this section is representative of varying geographical and population characteristics of the Nation, and takes into consideration the historical geographical incidence of motor vehicle accidents involving loss of human life. In selecting the States for participation, the Secretary shall attempt to solicit States which meet the following criteria:

“(1) One of the States shall be a western State which is one of the 3 most populous States, with numerous large cities, with at least one city exceeding 7,000,000 people. The State should have a diverse demographic population with larger than average drug use according to reliable surveys.

“(2) One of the remaining States should be a southern State, one a northeastern State, and one a central State.

“(3) One of the remaining States should be mainly rural and among the least populous States.

“(4) One of the remaining States should have less than average drug use according to reliable surveys.

“(d) Length of Program.—The pilot program authorized by this section shall continue for a period of 1 year. The Secretary shall consider alternative methodologies for implementing a system of random testing of such individuals.

“(e) Requirements for State Participation.—

“(1) Persons to be tested.—Each State participating in the test program shall test for controlled substances in accordance with paragraph (2) individuals who—

“(A) are applicants seeking the privilege to drive, and

“(B) have never been issued a driver's license by any State.

“(2) Types of testing.—To deter drug use and promote highway safety, all individuals described in paragraph (1) shall be subject to random testing—

“(A) prior to issuance of driver's licenses, and

“(B) during the first year following the date of issuance of such licenses.

“(3) Denial of driving privileges.—Each State participating in the test program shall deny an individual driving privileges if drug testing required by paragraph (1) indicates that such individual has used illicit drugs, with such denial lasting for a period of at least 1 year following such test or subsequent confirmatory test.

“(4) Reinstitution of driving privileges.—The program described in paragraph (3) may allow for reinstitution of driving privileges after a period of 3 months if such reinstitution is accompanied by a requirement that the individual be available for a period of 9 months for drug testing on a regular basis. If any such test indicates that the individual has used illicit drugs, then driving privileges must be denied for 1 year following such test or confirmatory test.

“(f) Regulations.—The Secretary may issue regulations to assist States in implementing the programs described in subsection (e) and to grant temporary exceptions in appropriate circumstances.

“(g) Report.—Not later than 30 months after the date of the enactment of this Act [Nov. 18, 1988], the Secretary shall prepare and transmit to Congress a comprehensive report setting forth the results of the pilot program conducted under this section. Such report shall include any recommendations of the Secretary concerning the desirability and implementation of a system for random testing of such operators of motor vehicles.

“(h) Authorization of Appropriations.—For purposes of carrying out this test program, there is authorized to be appropriated $5,000,000 for fiscal year 1990.

“(i) Definitions.—For purposes of this section—

“(1) Controlled substance.—The term ‘controlled substance’ means any controlled substance as defined under section 102(6) of the Controlled Substance Act (21 U.S.C. 802(6)) whose use the Secretary has determined poses a risk to transportation safety.

“(2) Secretary.—The term ‘Secretary’ means the Secretary of Transportation.

“(3) State.—The term ‘State’ has the meaning such term has when used in chapter 1 of title 23, United States Code.”

Drug and Highway Safety Study and Report

Pub. L. 99–570, title III, §3402, Oct. 27, 1986, 100 Stat. 3207–102, directed Secretary of Transportation to conduct a study to determine relationship between usage of controlled substances and highway safety and, not later than one year after Oct. 27, 1986, submit to Congress a report on results of study.

National Driver Register Study

Pub. L. 95–599, title II, §204, Nov. 6, 1978, 92 Stat. 2729, directed Secretary of Transportation to make a full and complete investigation and study of the need for, and, if necessary, ways and means to establish, a national driver register to assist States in electronically exchanging information regarding motor vehicle driving records of certain individuals, with Secretary to issue a final report to Congress not later than one year after Nov. 6, 1978.

Detection and Prevention of Marijuana and Other Drug Use by Operators of Motor Vehicles

Pub. L. 95–599, title II, §212, Nov. 6, 1978, 92 Stat. 2734, directed Secretary to report to Congress not later than Dec. 31, 1979, concerning the progress of efforts to detect and prevent marijuana and drug use by motor vehicle operators, capabilities of law enforcement officials to detect the use of marijuana and drugs by motor vehicle operators, and a description of Federal and State projects undertaken into methods of detection and prevention.

Form and Use of Reports of Highway Traffic Accidents or Research Projects in Court; Availability to Public

Pub. L. 89–564, title I, §106, Sept. 9, 1966, 80 Stat. 735, as amended by Pub. L. 105–178, title V, §5119(f), June 9, 1998, 112 Stat. 452, provided that: “All facts contained in any report of any Federal department or agency or any officer, employee, or agent thereof, relating to any highway traffic accident or the investigation thereof conducted pursuant to chapter 4 of title 23 of the United States Code shall be available for use in any civil, criminal, or other judicial proceeding arising out of such accident, and any such officer, employee, or agent may be required to testify in such proceedings as to the facts developed in such investigation. Any such report shall be made available to the public in a manner which does not identify individuals. All completed reports on research projects, demonstration projects, and other related activities conducted under section 403 and chapter 5 of title 23, United States Code, shall be made available to the public in a manner which does not identify individuals.”

Appropriations Authorizations

Pub. L. 93–87, title II, §208(b), Aug. 13, 1973, 87 Stat. 286, provided that: “There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out the amendments made by this section [amending this section] by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, out of the Highway Trust Fund, the sum of $10,000,000 per fiscal year for each of the fiscal years ending June 30, 1974, June 30, 1975, and June 30, 1976.”

Pub. L. 93–87, title II, §226(b), Aug. 13, 1973, 87 Stat. 292, provided that: “For the purpose of carrying out the amendment made by subsection (a) of this section [amending this section], there is authorized to be appropriated $10,000,000 out of the Highway Trust Fund.”

Authorization of Additional Appropriations

Authorization of appropriation of additional sum of $10,000,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1967, $20,000,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1968, and $25,000,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1969, for the purpose of carrying out this section and section 307(a) of this title, see section 105 of Pub. L. 89–564, set out as a note under section 307 of this title.

1 So in original. Probably should be “section”.

§404. National Highway Safety Advisory Committee

(a)(1) There is established in the Department of Transportation a National Highway Safety Advisory Committee, composed of the Secretary or an officer of the Department appointed by him, the Federal Highway Administrator, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administrator, and thirty-five members appointed by the President, no more than four of whom shall be Federal officers or employees. The Secretary shall select the Chairman of the Committee from among the Committee members. The appointed members, having due regard for the purposes of this chapter, shall be selected from among representatives of various State and local governments, including State legislatures, of public and private interests contributing to, affected by, or concerned with highway safety, including the national organizations of passenger car, bus, and truck owners, and of other public and private agencies, organizations, or groups demonstrating an active interest in highway safety, as well as research scientists and other individuals who are expert in this field.

(2)(A) Each member appointed by the President shall hold office for a term of three years, except that (i) any member appointed to fill a vacancy occurring prior to the expiration of the term for which his predecessor was appointed shall be appointed for the remainder of such term, and (ii) the terms of office of members first taking office after the date of enactment of this section shall expire as follows: Twelve at the end of one year after the date such committee members are appointed by the President, twelve at the end of two years after the date such committee members are appointed by the President, and eleven at the end of three years after the date such committee members are appointed, as designated by the President at the time of appointment, and (iii) the term of any member shall be extended until the date on which the successor's appointment is effective. None of the members appointed by the President who has served a three-year term, other than Federal officers or employees, shall be eligible for reappointment within one year following the end of his preceding term.

(B) Members of the Committee who are not officers or employees of the United States shall, while attending meetings or conferences of such Committee or otherwise engaged in the business of such Committee, be entitled to receive compensation at a rate fixed by the Secretary, but not exceeding $100 per diem, including traveltime, and while away from their homes or regular places of business they may be allowed travel expenses, including per diem in lieu of subsistence, as authorized in section 5 of the Administrative Expenses Act of 1946 (5 U.S.C. 73b–2) for persons in the Government service employed intermittently. Payments under this section shall not render members of the Committee employees or officials of the United States for any purpose.

(b) The National Highway Safety Advisory Committee shall advise, consult with, and make recommendations to, the Secretary on matters relating to the activities and functions of the Department in the field of highway safety. The Committee is authorized (1) to review research projects or programs submitted to or recommended by it in the field of highway safety and recommend to the Secretary, for prosecution under this title, any such projects which it believes show promise of making valuable contributions to human knowledge with respect to the cause and prevention of highway accidents; and (2) to review, prior to issuance, standards proposed to be issued by order of the Secretary under the provisions of section 402(a) of this title and to make recommendations thereon. Such recommendations shall be published in connection with the Secretary's determination or order.

(c) The National Highway Safety Advisory Committee shall meet from time to time as the Secretary shall direct, but at least once each year.

(d) The Secretary shall provide to the National Highway Safety Committee from among the personnel and facilities of the Department of Transportation such staff and facilities as are necessary to carry out the functions of such Committee.

(Added Pub. L. 89–564, title I, §101, Sept. 9, 1966, 80 Stat. 733; amended Pub. L. 90–150, Nov. 24, 1967, 81 Stat. 507; Pub. L. 93–87, title II, §223, Aug. 13, 1973, 87 Stat. 292; Pub. L. 94–280, title II, §209, May 5, 1976, 90 Stat. 455; Pub. L. 109–59, title II, §2019, Aug. 10, 2005, 119 Stat. 1543.)

References in Text

The date of enactment of this section, referred to in subsec. (a)(2)(A), is Sept. 9, 1966.

Section 5 of the Administrative Expenses Act of 1946 (5 U.S.C. 73b–2), referred to in subsec. (a)(2)(B), was repealed by Pub. L. 89–554, §8(a), Sept. 6, 1966, 80 Stat. 632. Section 7(b) of Pub. L. 89–554 provided that references to sections of former Title 5, Executive Departments and Government Officers and Employees, are to be deemed to be references to corresponding provisions of Title 5, Government Organization and Employees. Provisions similar to section 73b–2 of former title 5 are now contained in section 5703 of Title 5, Government Organization and Employees.

Amendments

2005—Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 109–59 substituted “Transportation” for “Commerce”.

1976—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 94–280 substituted provision for selection by the Secretary of the Chairman of the Committee from among the Committee members for prior provision making the Secretary or an officer of the Department appointed by him the Chairman of the Committee.

1973—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 93–87 added the National Highway Traffic Safety Administrator to the membership of the National Highway Safety Advisory Committee.

1967—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 90–150, §1(1), substituted “Department of Transportation” for “Department of Commerce”, increased number of Committee appointees from twenty-nine to thirty-five, and provided for selection of members from representatives of national organizations of passenger car, bus, and truck owners.

Subsec. (a)(2)(A). Pub. L. 90–150, §1(2), substituted provisions for expirations of term of office of initial appointees one, two, and three years after date of appointment for twelve, twelve, and eleven members, respectively, for former provisions for such expiration one, two, and three years following enactment date of Sept. 9, 1966, for ten, ten, and nine members, respectively, and prohibited reappointment within one year after end of preceding term of member serving a three-year term of office.

Termination of Advisory Committees

Advisory committees in existence on Jan. 5, 1973, to terminate not later than the expiration of the 2-year period following Jan. 5, 1973, unless, in the case of a committee established by the President or an officer of the Federal Government, such committee is renewed by appropriate action prior to the expiration of such 2-year period, or in the case of a committee established by the Congress, its duration is otherwise provided for by law. See section 14 of Pub. L. 92–463, Oct. 6, 1972, 86 Stat. 776, set out in the Appendix to Title 5, Government Organization and Employees.

§405. National priority safety programs

(a) General Authority.—Subject to the requirements of this section, the Secretary of Transportation shall manage programs to address national priorities for reducing highway deaths and injuries. Funds shall be allocated according to the priorities set forth in paragraphs (1) and (2).

(1) Grants to states.—

(A) Occupant protection.—16 percent of the funds provided under this section in each fiscal year shall be allocated among States that adopt and implement effective occupant protection programs to reduce highway deaths and injuries resulting from individuals riding unrestrained or improperly restrained in motor vehicles (as described in subsection (b)).

(B) State traffic safety information system improvements.—14.5 percent of the funds provided under this section in each fiscal year shall be allocated among States that meet the requirements of the State traffic safety information system improvements (as described in subsection (c)).

(C) Impaired driving countermeasures.—52.5 percent of the funds provided under this section in each fiscal year shall be allocated among States that meet the requirements of the impaired driving countermeasures (as described in subsection (d)).

(D) Distracted driving.—8.5 percent of the funds provided under this section in each fiscal year shall be allocated among States that adopt and implement effective laws to reduce distracted driving (as described in subsection (e)).

(E) Motorcyclist safety.—1.5 percent of the funds provided under this section in each fiscal year shall be allocated among States that implement motorcyclist safety programs (as described in subsection (f)).

(F) State graduated driver licensing laws.—5 percent of the funds provided under this section in each fiscal year shall be allocated among States that adopt and implement graduated driver licensing laws (as described in subsection (g)).

(G) Transfers.—Notwithstanding subparagraphs (A) through (F), the Secretary may reallocate, before the last day of any fiscal year, any amounts remaining available to carry out any of the activities described in subsections (b) through (g) to increase the amount made available to carry out any of the other activities described in such subsections, or the amount made available under section 402, in order to ensure, to the maximum extent possible, that all such amounts are obligated during such fiscal year.

(H) Maintenance of effort.—

(i) Requirements.—No grant may be made to a State in any fiscal year under subsection (b), (c), or (d) unless the State enters into such agreements with the Secretary as the Secretary may require to ensure that the State will maintain its aggregate expenditures from all State and local sources for programs described in those sections at or above the average level of such expenditures in its 2 fiscal years preceding the date of enactment of the Motor Vehicle and Highway Safety Improvement Act of 2012.

(ii) Waiver.—Upon the request of a State, the Secretary may waive or modify the requirements under clause (i) for not more than 1 fiscal year if the Secretary determines that such a waiver would be equitable due to exceptional or uncontrollable circumstances.


(2) Other priority programs.—Funds provided under this section in each fiscal year may be used for research into technology to prevent alcohol-impaired driving (as described in subsection 1 403(h)).


(b) Occupant Protection Grants.—

(1) General authority.—Subject to the requirements under this subsection, the Secretary of Transportation shall award grants to States that adopt and implement effective occupant protection programs to reduce highway deaths and injuries resulting from individuals riding unrestrained or improperly restrained in motor vehicles.

(2) Federal share.—The Federal share of the costs of activities funded using amounts from grants awarded under this subsection may not exceed 80 percent for each fiscal year for which a State receives a grant.

(3) Eligibility.—

(A) High seat belt use rate.—A State with an observed seat belt use rate of 90 percent or higher, based on the most recent data from a survey that conforms with national criteria established by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, shall be eligible for a grant in a fiscal year if the State—

(i) submits an occupant protection plan during the first fiscal year;

(ii) participates in the Click It or Ticket national mobilization;

(iii) has an active network of child restraint inspection stations; and

(iv) has a plan to recruit, train, and maintain a sufficient number of child passenger safety technicians.


(B) Lower seat belt use rate.—A State with an observed seat belt use rate below 90 percent, based on the most recent data from a survey that conforms with national criteria established by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, shall be eligible for a grant in a fiscal year if—

(i) the State meets all of the requirements under clauses (i) through (iv) of subparagraph (A); and

(ii) the Secretary determines that the State meets at least 3 of the following criteria:

(I) The State conducts sustained (on-going and periodic) seat belt enforcement at a defined level of participation during the year.

(II) The State has enacted and enforces a primary enforcement seat belt use law.

(III) The State has implemented countermeasure programs for high-risk populations, such as drivers on rural roadways, unrestrained nighttime drivers, or teenage drivers.

(IV) The State has enacted and enforces occupant protection laws requiring front and rear occupant protection use by all occupants in an age-appropriate restraint.

(V) The State has implemented a comprehensive occupant protection program in which the State has—

(aa) conducted a program assessment;

(bb) developed a statewide strategic plan;

(cc) designated an occupant protection coordinator; and

(dd) established a statewide occupant protection task force.


(VI) The State—

(aa) completed an assessment of its occupant protection program during the 3-year period preceding the grant year; or

(bb) will conduct such an assessment during the first year of the grant.


(4) Use of grant amounts.—

(A) In general.—Grant funds received pursuant to this subsection may be used to—

(i) carry out a program to support high-visibility enforcement mobilizations, including paid media that emphasizes publicity for the program, and law enforcement;

(ii) carry out a program to train occupant protection safety professionals, police officers, fire and emergency medical personnel, educators, and parents concerning all aspects of the use of child restraints and occupant protection;

(iii) carry out a program to educate the public concerning the proper use and installation of child restraints, including related equipment and information systems;

(iv) carry out a program to provide community child passenger safety services, including programs about proper seating positions for children and how to reduce the improper use of child restraints;

(v) purchase and distribute child restraints to low-income families, provided that not more than 5 percent of the funds received in a fiscal year are used for such purpose; and

(vi) establish and maintain information systems containing data concerning occupant protection, including the collection and administration of child passenger safety and occupant protection surveys.


(B) High seat belt use rate.—A State that is eligible for funds under paragraph (3)(A) may use up to 75 percent of such funds for any project or activity eligible for funding under section 402.


(5) Grant amount.—The allocation of grant funds to a State under this subsection for a fiscal year shall be in proportion to the State's apportionment under section 402 for fiscal year 2009.

(6) Definitions.—In this subsection:

(A) Child restraint.—The term “child restraint” means any device (including child safety seat, booster seat, harness, and excepting seat belts) that is—

(i) designed for use in a motor vehicle to restrain, seat, or position children who weigh 65 pounds (30 kilograms) or less; and

(ii) certified to the Federal motor vehicle safety standard prescribed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for child restraints.


(B) Seat belt.—The term “seat belt” means—

(i) with respect to open-body motor vehicles, including convertibles, an occupant restraint system consisting of a lap belt or a lap belt and a detachable shoulder belt; and

(ii) with respect to other motor vehicles, an occupant restraint system consisting of integrated lap and shoulder belts.


(c) State Traffic Safety Information System Improvements.—

(1) General authority.—Subject to the requirements under this subsection, the Secretary of Transportation shall award grants to States to support the development and implementation of effective State programs that—

(A) improve the timeliness, accuracy, completeness, uniformity, integration, and accessibility of the State safety data that is needed to identify priorities for Federal, State, and local highway and traffic safety programs;

(B) evaluate the effectiveness of efforts to make such improvements;

(C) link the State data systems, including traffic records, with other data systems within the State, such as systems that contain medical, roadway, and economic data;

(D) improve the compatibility and interoperability of the data systems of the State with national data systems and data systems of other States; and

(E) enhance the ability of the Secretary to observe and analyze national trends in crash occurrences, rates, outcomes, and circumstances.


(2) Federal share.—The Federal share of the cost of adopting and implementing in a fiscal year a State program described in this subsection may not exceed 80 percent.

(3) Eligibility.—A State is not eligible for a grant under this subsection in a fiscal year unless the State demonstrates, to the satisfaction of the Secretary, that the State—

(A) has a functioning traffic records coordinating committee (referred to in this paragraph as “TRCC”) that meets at least 3 times each year;

(B) has designated a TRCC coordinator;

(C) has established a State traffic record strategic plan that has been approved by the TRCC and describes specific quantifiable and measurable improvements anticipated in the State's core safety databases, including crash, citation or adjudication, driver, emergency medical services or injury surveillance system, roadway, and vehicle databases;

(D) has demonstrated quantitative progress in relation to the significant data program attribute of—

(i) accuracy;

(ii) completeness;

(iii) timeliness;

(iv) uniformity;

(v) accessibility; or

(vi) integration of a core highway safety database; and


(E) has certified to the Secretary that an assessment of the State's highway safety data and traffic records system was conducted or updated during the preceding 5 years.


(4) Use of grant amounts.—Grant funds received by a State under this subsection shall be used for making data program improvements to core highway safety databases related to quantifiable, measurable progress in any of the 6 significant data program attributes set forth in paragraph (3)(D).

(5) Grant amount.—The allocation of grant funds to a State under this subsection for a fiscal year shall be in proportion to the State's apportionment under section 402 for fiscal year 2009.


(d) Impaired Driving Countermeasures.—

(1) In general.—Subject to the requirements under this subsection, the Secretary of Transportation shall award grants to States that adopt and implement—

(A) effective programs to reduce driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or the combination of alcohol and drugs; or

(B) alcohol-ignition interlock laws.


(2) Federal share.—The Federal share of the costs of activities funded using amounts from grants under this subsection may not exceed 80 percent in any fiscal year in which the State receives a grant.

(3) Eligibility.—

(A) Low-range states.—Low-range States shall be eligible for a grant under this subsection.

(B) Mid-range states.—A mid-range State shall be eligible for a grant under this subsection if—

(i) a statewide impaired driving task force in the State developed a statewide plan during the most recent 3 calendar years to address the problem of impaired driving; or

(ii) the State will convene a statewide impaired driving task force to develop such a plan during the first year of the grant.


(C) High-range states.—A high-range State shall be eligible for a grant under this subsection if the State—

(i)(I) conducted an assessment of the State's impaired driving program during the most recent 3 calendar years; or

(II) will conduct such an assessment during the first year of the grant;

(ii) convenes, during the first year of the grant, a statewide impaired driving task force to develop a statewide plan that—

(I) addresses any recommendations from the assessment conducted under clause (i);

(II) includes a detailed plan for spending any grant funds provided under this subsection; and

(III) describes how such spending supports the statewide program; and


(iii)(I) submits the statewide plan to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration during the first year of the grant for the agency's review and approval;

(II) annually updates the statewide plan in each subsequent year of the grant; and

(III) submits each updated statewide plan for the agency's review and comment.


(4) Use of grant amounts.—

(A) Required programs.—High-range States shall use grant funds for—

(i) high visibility enforcement efforts; and

(ii) any of the activities described in subparagraph (B) if—

(I) the activity is described in the statewide plan; and

(II) the Secretary approves the use of funding for such activity.


(B) Authorized programs.—Medium-range and low-range States may use grant funds for—

(i) any of the purposes described in subparagraph (A);

(ii) hiring a full-time or part-time impaired driving coordinator of the State's activities to address the enforcement and adjudication of laws regarding driving while impaired by alcohol;

(iii) court support of high visibility enforcement efforts, training and education of criminal justice professionals (including law enforcement, prosecutors, judges, and probation officers) to assist such professionals in handling impaired driving cases, hiring traffic safety resource prosecutors, hiring judicial outreach liaisons, and establishing driving while intoxicated courts;

(iv) alcohol ignition interlock programs;

(v) improving blood-alcohol concentration testing and reporting;

(vi) paid and earned media in support of high visibility enforcement efforts, and conducting standardized field sobriety training, advanced roadside impaired driving evaluation training, and drug recognition expert training for law enforcement, and equipment and related expenditures used in connection with impaired driving enforcement in accordance with criteria established by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration;

(vii) training on the use of alcohol screening and brief intervention;

(viii) developing impaired driving information systems; and

(ix) costs associated with a 24-7 sobriety program.


(C) Other programs.—Low-range States may use grant funds for any expenditure designed to reduce impaired driving based on problem identification. Medium and high-range States may use funds for such expenditures upon approval by the Secretary.


(5) Grant amount.—Subject to paragraph (6), the allocation of grant funds to a State under this section for a fiscal year shall be in proportion to the State's apportionment under section 402(c) for fiscal year 2009.

(6) Grants to states that adopt and enforce mandatory alcohol-ignition interlock laws.—

(A) In general.—The Secretary shall make a separate grant under this subsection to each State that 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.

(B) Use of funds.—Grants authorized under subparagraph (A) may be used by recipient States for any eligible activities under this subsection or section 402.

(C) Allocation.—Amounts made available under this paragraph shall be allocated among States described in subparagraph (A) on the basis of the apportionment formula set forth in section 402(c).

(D) Funding.—Not more than 15 percent of the amounts made available to carry out this subsection in a fiscal year shall be made available by the Secretary for making grants under this paragraph.


(7) Definitions.—In this subsection:

(A) 24-7 sobriety program.—The term “24-7 sobriety program” means a State law or program that authorizes a State court or a State agency, as a condition of sentence, probation, parole, or work permit, to—

(i) require an individual who plead guilty or was convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs to totally abstain from alcohol or drugs for a period of time; and

(ii) require the individual to be subject to testing for alcohol or drugs—

(I) at least twice per day;

(II) by continuous transdermal alcohol monitoring via an electronic monitoring device; or

(III) by an alternate method with the concurrence of the Secretary.


(B) Average impaired driving fatality rate.—The term “average impaired driving fatality rate” means the number of fatalities in motor vehicle crashes involving a driver with a blood alcohol concentration of at least 0.08 percent for every 100,000,000 vehicle miles traveled, based on the most recently reported 3 calendar years of final data from the Fatality Analysis Reporting System, as calculated in accordance with regulations prescribed by the Administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

(C) High-range state.—The term “high-range State” means a State that has an average impaired driving fatality rate of 0.60 or higher.

(D) Low-range state.—The term “low-range State” means a State that has an average impaired driving fatality rate of 0.30 or lower..2

(E) Mid-range state.—The term “mid-range State” means a State that has an average impaired driving fatality rate that is higher than 0.30 and lower than 0.60.


(e) Distracted Driving Grants.—

(1) In general.—The Secretary shall award a grant under this subsection to any State that enacts and enforces a statute that meets the requirements set forth in paragraphs (2) and (3).

(2) Prohibition on texting while driving.—A State statute meets the requirements set forth in this paragraph if the statute—

(A) prohibits drivers from texting through a personal wireless communications device while driving;

(B) makes violation of the statute a primary offense; and

(C) establishes—

(i) a minimum fine for a first violation of the statute; and

(ii) increased fines for repeat violations.


(3) Prohibition on youth cell phone use while driving.—A State statute meets the requirements set forth in this paragraph if the statute—

(A) prohibits a driver who is younger than 18 years of age from using a personal wireless communications device while driving;

(B) makes violation of the statute a primary offense;

(C) requires distracted driving issues to be tested as part of the State driver's license examination; and

(D) establishes—


(i) a minimum fine for a first violation of the statute; and

(ii) increased fines for repeat violations.


(4) Permitted exceptions.—A statute that meets the requirements set forth in paragraphs (2) and (3) may provide exceptions for—

(A) a driver who uses a personal wireless communications device to contact emergency services;

(B) emergency services personnel who use a personal wireless communications device while—

(i) operating an emergency services vehicle; and

(ii) engaged in the performance of their duties as emergency services personnel; and


(C) an individual employed as a commercial motor vehicle driver or a school bus driver who uses a personal wireless communications device within the scope of such individual's employment if such use is permitted under the regulations promulgated pursuant to section 31152 of title 49.


(5) Use of grant funds.—Of the amounts received by a State under this subsection—

(A) at least 50 percent shall be used—

(i) to educate the public through advertising containing information about the dangers of texting or using a cell phone while driving;

(ii) for traffic signs that notify drivers about the distracted driving law of the State; or

(iii) for law enforcement costs related to the enforcement of the distracted driving law; and


(B) up to 50 percent may be used for any eligible project or activity under section 402.


(6) Additional grants.—In the first fiscal year that grants are awarded under this subsection, the Secretary may use up to 25 percent of the amounts available for grants under this subsection to award grants to States that—

(A) enacted statutes before the date of enactment of the Motor Vehicle and Highway Safety Improvement Act of 2012, which meet the requirements set forth in subparagraphs (A) and (B) of paragraph (2); and

(B) are otherwise ineligible for a grant under this subsection.


(7) Allocation to support state distracted driving laws.—Of the amounts available under this subsection in a fiscal year for distracted driving grants, the Secretary may expend up to $5,000,000 for the development and placement of broadcast media to support the enforcement of State distracted driving laws.

(8) Distracted driving study.—

(A) In general.—The Secretary shall conduct a study of all forms of distracted driving.

(B) Components.—The study conducted under subparagraph (A) shall—

(i) examine the effect of distractions other than the use of personal wireless communications on motor vehicle safety;

(ii) identify metrics to determine the nature and scope of the distracted driving problem;

(iii) identify the most effective methods to enhance education and awareness; and

(iv) identify the most effective method of reducing deaths and injuries caused by all forms of distracted driving.


(C) Report.—Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of the Motor Vehicle and Highway Safety Improvement Act of 2012, the Secretary shall submit a report containing the results of the study conducted under this paragraph to—

(i) the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate; and

(ii) the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives.


(9) Definitions.—In this subsection:

(A) Driving.—The term “driving”—

(i) means operating a motor vehicle on a public road, including operation while temporarily stationary because of traffic, a traffic light or stop sign, or otherwise; and

(ii) does not include operating a motor vehicle when the vehicle has pulled over to the side of, or off, an active roadway and has stopped in a location where it can safely remain stationary.


(B) Personal wireless communications device.—The term “personal wireless communications device”—

(i) means a device through which personal wireless services (as defined in section 332(c)(7)(C)(i) of the Communications Act of 1934 (47 U.S.C. 332(c)(7)(C)(i))) are transmitted; and

(ii) does not include a global navigation satellite system receiver used for positioning, emergency notification, or navigation purposes.


(C) Primary offense.—The term “primary offense” means an offense for which a law enforcement officer may stop a vehicle solely for the purpose of issuing a citation in the absence of evidence of another offense.

(D) Public road.—The term “public road” has the meaning given such term in section 402(c).

(E) Texting.—The term “texting” means reading from or manually entering data into a personal wireless communications device, including doing so for the purpose of SMS texting, e-mailing, instant messaging, or engaging in any other form of electronic data retrieval or electronic data communication.


(f) Motorcyclist Safety.—

(1) Grants authorized.—Subject to the requirements under this subsection, the Secretary shall award grants to States that adopt and implement effective programs to reduce the number of single- and multi-vehicle crashes involving motorcyclists.

(2) Allocation.—The amount of a grant awarded to a State for a fiscal year under this subsection may not exceed 25 percent of the amount apportioned to the State for fiscal year 2003 under section 402.

(3) Grant eligibility.—A State becomes eligible for a grant under this subsection by adopting or demonstrating to the satisfaction of the Secretary, at least 2 of the following criteria:

(A) Motorcycle rider training courses.—An effective motorcycle rider training course that is offered throughout the State, which—

(i) provides a formal program of instruction in accident avoidance and other safety-oriented operational skills to motorcyclists; and

(ii) may include innovative training opportunities to meet unique regional needs.


(B) Motorcyclists awareness program.—An effective statewide program to enhance motorist awareness of the presence of motorcyclists on or near roadways and safe driving practices that avoid injuries to motorcyclists.

(C) Reduction of fatalities and crashes involving motorcycles.—A reduction for the preceding calendar year in the number of motorcycle fatalities and the rate of motor vehicle crashes involving motorcycles in the State (expressed as a function of 10,000 motorcycle registrations).

(D) Impaired driving program.—Implementation of a statewide program to reduce impaired driving, including specific measures to reduce impaired motorcycle operation.

(E) Reduction of fatalities and accidents involving impaired motorcyclists.—A reduction for the preceding calendar year in the number of fatalities and the rate of reported crashes involving alcohol- or drug-impaired motorcycle operators (expressed as a function of 10,000 motorcycle registrations).

(F) Fees collected from motorcyclists.—All fees collected by the State from motorcyclists for the purposes of funding motorcycle training and safety programs will be used for motorcycle training and safety purposes.


(4) Eligible uses.—

(A) In general.—A State may use funds from a grant under this subsection only for motorcyclist safety training and motorcyclist awareness programs, including—

(i) improvements to motorcyclist safety training curricula;

(ii) improvements in program delivery of motorcycle training to both urban and rural areas, including—

(I) procurement or repair of practice motorcycles;

(II) instructional materials;

(III) mobile training units; and

(IV) leasing or purchasing facilities for closed-course motorcycle skill training;


(iii) measures designed to increase the recruitment or retention of motorcyclist safety training instructors; and

(iv) public awareness, public service announcements, and other outreach programs to enhance driver awareness of motorcyclists, such as the “share-the-road” safety messages developed under subsection (g).


(B) Suballocations of funds.—An agency of a State that receives a grant under this subsection may suballocate funds from the grant to a nonprofit organization incorporated in that State to carry out this subsection.


(5) Definitions.—In this subsection:

(A) Motorcyclist awareness.—The term “motorcyclist awareness” means individual or collective awareness of—

(i) the presence of motorcycles on or near roadways; and

(ii) safe driving practices that avoid injury to motorcyclists.


(B) Motorcyclist awareness program.—The term “motorcyclist awareness program” means an informational or public awareness program designed to enhance motorcyclist awareness that is developed by or in coordination with the designated State authority having jurisdiction over motorcyclist safety issues, which may include the State motorcycle safety administrator or a motorcycle advisory council appointed by the governor of the State.

(C) Motorcyclist safety training.—The term “motorcyclist safety training” means a formal program of instruction that is approved for use in a State by the designated State authority having jurisdiction over motorcyclist safety issues, which may include the State motorcycle safety administrator or a motorcycle advisory council appointed by the governor of the State.

(D) State.—The term “State” has the meaning given such term in section 101(a) of title 23, United States Code.


(g) State Graduated Driver Licensing Incentive Grant.—

(1) Grants authorized.—Subject to the requirements under this subsection, the Secretary shall award grants to States that adopt and implement graduated driver licensing laws in accordance with the requirements set forth in paragraph (2).

(2) Minimum requirements.—

(A) In general.—A State meets the requirements set forth in this paragraph if the State has a graduated driver licensing law that requires novice drivers younger than 21 years of age to comply with the 2-stage licensing process described in subparagraph (B) before receiving an unrestricted driver's license.

(B) Licensing process.—A State is in compliance with the 2-stage licensing process described in this subparagraph if the State's driver's license laws include—

(i) a learner's permit stage that—

(I) is at least 6 months in duration;

(II) prohibits the driver from using a cellular telephone or any communications device in a nonemergency situation; and

(III) remains in effect until the driver—

(aa) reaches 16 years of age and enters the intermediate stage; or

(bb) reaches 18 years of age;


(ii) an intermediate stage that—

(I) commences immediately after the expiration of the learner's permit stage;

(II) is at least 6 months in duration;

(III) prohibits the driver from using a cellular telephone or any communications device in a nonemergency situation;

(IV) restricts driving at night;

(V) prohibits the driver from operating a motor vehicle with more than 1 nonfamilial passenger younger than 21 years of age unless a licensed driver who is at least 21 years of age is in the motor vehicle; and

(VI) remains in effect until the driver reaches 18 years of age; and


(iii) any other requirement prescribed by the Secretary of Transportation, including—

(I) in the learner's permit stage—

(aa) at least 40 hours of behind-the-wheel training with a licensed driver who is at least 21 years of age;

(bb) a driver training course; and

(cc) a requirement that the driver be accompanied and supervised by a licensed driver, who is at least 21 years of age, at all times while such driver is operating a motor vehicle; and


(II) in the learner's permit or intermediate stage, a requirement, in addition to any other penalties imposed by State law, that the grant of an unrestricted driver's license be automatically delayed for any individual who, during the learner's permit or intermediate stage, is convicted of a driving-related offense, including—

(aa) driving while intoxicated;

(bb) misrepresentation of his or her true age;

(cc) reckless driving;

(dd) driving without wearing a seat belt;

(ee) speeding; or

(ff) any other driving-related offense, as determined by the Secretary.


(3) Rulemaking.—

(A) In general.—The Secretary shall promulgate regulations necessary to implement the requirements set forth in paragraph (2), in accordance with the notice and comment provisions under section 553 of title 5.

(B) Exception.—A State that otherwise meets the minimum requirements set forth in paragraph (2) shall be deemed by the Secretary to be in compliance with the requirement set forth in paragraph (2) if the State enacted a law before January 1, 2011, establishing a class of license that permits licensees or applicants younger than 18 years of age to drive a motor vehicle—

(i) in connection with work performed on, or for the operation of, a farm owned by family members who are directly related to the applicant or licensee; or

(ii) if demonstrable hardship would result from the denial of a license to the licensees or applicants.


(4) Allocation.—Grant funds allocated to a State under this subsection for a fiscal year shall be in proportion to a State's apportionment under section 402 for such fiscal year.

(5) Use of funds.—Of the grant funds received by a State under this subsection—

(A) at least 25 percent shall be used for—

(i) enforcing a 2-stage licensing process that complies with paragraph (2);

(ii) training for law enforcement personnel and other relevant State agency personnel relating to the enforcement described in clause (i);

(iii) publishing relevant educational materials that pertain directly or indirectly to the State graduated driver licensing law;

(iv) carrying out other administrative activities that the Secretary considers relevant to the State's 2-stage licensing process; and

(v) carrying out a teen traffic safety program described in section 402(m); and


(B) up to 75 percent may be used for any eligible project or activity under section 402.

(Added Pub. L. 105–178, title II, §2003(a)(1), June 9, 1998, 112 Stat. 325; amended Pub. L. 109–59, title II, §§2002(e), 2004, Aug. 10, 2005, 119 Stat. 1522, 1524; Pub. L. 111–147, title IV, §421(c)(1), Mar. 18, 2010, 124 Stat. 84; Pub. L. 112–30, title I, §121(c)(1), Sept. 16, 2011, 125 Stat. 347; Pub. L. 112–141, div. C, title I, §31105(a), July 6, 2012, 126 Stat. 741.)

References in Text

The date of enactment of the Motor Vehicle and Highway Safety Improvement Act of 2012, referred to in subsecs. (a)(1)(H)(i), (e)(6)(A), (8)(C), is the date of enactment of title I of div. C of Pub. L. 112–141, which was approved July 6, 2012.

Prior Provisions

A prior section 405, added Pub. L. 93–87, title II, §230(a), Aug. 13, 1973, 87 Stat. 293; amended Pub. L. 93–643, §121, Jan. 4, 1975, 88 Stat. 2289, related to the Federal-aid safer roads demonstration program, prior to repeal by Pub. L. 94–280, title I, §135(c), May 5, 1976, 90 Stat. 442.

Amendments

2012—Pub. L. 112–141 amended section generally. Prior to amendment, section related to occupant protection incentive grants.

2011—Subsec. (a)(3). Pub. L. 112–30, §121(c)(1)(A), substituted “9” for “8”.

Subsec. (a)(4)(C). Pub. L. 112–30, §121(c)(1)(B), substituted “fifth through ninth” for “fifth through eighth”.

2010—Subsec. (a)(3). Pub. L. 111–147, §421(c)(1)(A), substituted “8” for “6”.

Subsec. (a)(4)(C). Pub. L. 111–147, §421(c)(1)(B), substituted “fifth through eighth” for “fifth and sixth”.

2005—Subsec. (a)(2). Pub. L. 109–59, §2004(a)(1), substituted “SAFETEA–LU” for “Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century”.

Subsec. (a)(3). Pub. L. 109–59, §2004(a)(2), substituted “2003” for “1997”.

Subsec. (a)(4). Pub. L. 109–59, §2004(a)(3), inserted “beginning after September 30, 2003,” after “years” in subpars. (A) to (C).

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 109–59, §2004(c), substituted “100 percent” for “25 percent” and “2003” for “1997”.

Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 109–59, §2002(e), struck out heading and text of subsec. (d). Text read as follows: “Funds authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section in a fiscal year shall be subject to a deduction not to exceed 5 percent for the necessary costs of administering the provisions of this section.”

Effective Date of 2012 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 112–141 effective Oct. 1, 2012, see section 3(a) of Pub. L. 112–141, set out as an Effective and Termination Dates of 2012 Amendment note under section 101 of this title.

Effective Date of 2005 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 109–59 effective Oct. 1, 2005, see section 2022 of Pub. L. 109–59, set out as a note under section 402 of this title.

Child Safety and Child Booster Seat Incentive Grants

Pub. L. 109–59, title II, §2011, Aug. 10, 2005, 119 Stat. 1538, as amended by Pub. L. 111–147, title IV, §421(j)(1), Mar. 18, 2010, 124 Stat. 85; Pub. L. 112–30, title I, §121(j)(1), Sept. 16, 2011, 125 Stat. 348, related to child safety and child booster seat incentive grants, prior to repeal by Pub. L. 112–141, div. C, title I, §31109(h), July 6, 2012, 126 Stat. 757.

Child Passenger Protection Education Grants

Pub. L. 105–178, title II, §2003(b), June 9, 1998, 112 Stat. 327, authorized the Secretary to make grants to States to implement child passenger protection programs, required reports from States and the Secretary regarding those programs, and authorized appropriations for fiscal years 2000 and 2001.

1 So in original. Probably should be “section”.

2 So in original.

[§§406 to 408. Repealed. Pub. L. 112–141, div. C, title I, §31109(b)–(d), July 6, 2012, 126 Stat. 756]

Section 406, added Pub. L. 93–643, §126(a), Jan. 4, 1975, 88 Stat. 2291; amended Pub. L. 94–280, title II, §205, May 5, 1976, 90 Stat. 453; Pub. L. 95–599, title I, §129(g), Nov. 6, 1978, 92 Stat. 2708; Pub. L. 109–59, title II, §2005(a), Aug. 10, 2005, 119 Stat. 1524, related to safety belt performance grants.

Section 407, added Pub. L. 95–599, title II, §208(a), Nov. 6, 1978, 92 Stat. 2732, related to innovative project grants.

Section 408, added Pub. L. 97–364, title I, §101(a), Oct. 25, 1982, 96 Stat. 1738; amended Pub. L. 98–363, §§4, 7, July 17, 1984, 98 Stat. 436, 438; Pub. L. 100–17, title II, §203(a), (b), Apr. 2, 1987, 101 Stat. 219; Pub. L. 109–59, title II, §2006(a), Aug. 10, 2005, 119 Stat. 1527, related to State traffic safety information system improvements.

Effective Date of Repeal

Repeal effective Oct. 1, 2012, see section 3(a) of Pub. L. 112–141, set out as an Effective and Termination Dates of 2012 Amendment note under section 101 of this title.

Repeal of Programs

Pub. L. 112–141, div. C, title I, §31109(a), July 6, 2012, 126 Stat. 756, provided that: “A repeal made by this section [repealing sections 406 to 408, 410, and 411 of this title and repealing provisions set out as notes under sections 402, 403, and 405 of this title] shall not affect amounts apportioned or allocated before the effective date of such repeal [Oct. 1, 2012, see section 3(a) of Pub. L. 112–141, set out as an Effective and Termination Dates of 2012 Amendment note under section 101 of this title], provided that such apportioned or allocated funds continue to be subject to the requirements to which such funds were subject under the repealed section as in effect on the day before the date of the repeal.”

§409. Discovery and admission as evidence of certain reports and surveys

Notwithstanding any other provision of law, reports, surveys, schedules, lists, or data compiled or collected for the purpose of identifying, evaluating, or planning the safety enhancement of potential accident sites, hazardous roadway conditions, or railway-highway crossings, pursuant to sections 130, 144, and 148 of this title or for the purpose of developing any highway safety construction improvement project which may be implemented utilizing Federal-aid highway funds shall not be subject to discovery or admitted into evidence in a Federal or State court proceeding or considered for other purposes in any action for damages arising from any occurrence at a location mentioned or addressed in such reports, surveys, schedules, lists, or data.

(Added Pub. L. 100–17, title I, §132(a), Apr. 2, 1987, 101 Stat. 170; amended Pub. L. 102–240, title I, §1035(a), Dec. 18, 1991, 105 Stat. 1978; Pub. L. 104–59, title III, §323, Nov. 28, 1995, 109 Stat. 591; Pub. L. 109–59, title I, §1401(a)(3)(C), Aug. 10, 2005, 119 Stat. 1225.)

Amendments

2005—Pub. L. 109–59 substituted “148” for “152”.

1995—Pub. L. 104–59 inserted “or collected” after “data compiled”.

1991—Pub. L. 102–240 substituted “Discovery and admission” for “Admission” in section catchline and “subject to discovery or admitted into evidence in a Federal or State court proceeding” for “admitted into evidence in Federal or State court” in text.

Effective Date of 1991 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 102–240 effective Dec. 18, 1991, and applicable to funds authorized to be appropriated or made available after Sept. 30, 1991, and, with certain exceptions, not applicable to funds appropriated or made available on or before Sept. 30, 1991, see section 1100 of Pub. L. 102–240, set out as a note under section 104 of this title.

[§§410, 411. Repealed. Pub. L. 112–141, div. C, title I, §31109(e), (f), July 6, 2012, 126 Stat. 757]

Section 410, added Pub. L. 100–690, title IX, §9002(a), Nov. 18, 1988, 102 Stat. 4521; amended Pub. L. 101–516, title III, §336, Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 2186; Pub. L. 102–240, title II, §2004(a), Dec. 18, 1991, 105 Stat. 2073; Pub. L. 102–388, title VI, §§601–606, Oct. 6, 1992, 106 Stat. 1569, 1570; Pub. L. 104–59, title III, §324, Nov. 28, 1995, 109 Stat. 591; Pub. L. 105–18, title II, §8003, June 12, 1997, 111 Stat. 195; Pub. L. 105–130, §6(b), Dec. 1, 1997, 111 Stat. 2558; Pub. L. 105–178, title II, §2004(a), June 9, 1998, 112 Stat. 328; Pub. L. 108–88, §6(e)(1), Sept. 30, 2003, 117 Stat. 1120; Pub. L. 108–310, §6(e)(1), Sept. 30, 2004, 118 Stat. 1152; Pub. L. 109–59, title II, §2007(a), (b), Aug. 10, 2005, 119 Stat. 1529; Pub. L. 110–244, title III, §303(c)(2), (3), June 6, 2008, 122 Stat. 1619; Pub. L. 111–147, title IV, §421(f)(1), Mar. 18, 2010, 124 Stat. 85; Pub. L. 112–30, title I, §121(f)(1), Sept. 16, 2011, 125 Stat. 347, related to alcohol-impaired driving countermeasures.

Section 411, added Pub. L. 105–178, title II, §2005(a), June 9, 1998, 112 Stat. 332; amended Pub. L. 110–244, title III, §303(c)(4), June 6, 2008, 122 Stat. 1619, related to State highway safety data improvements.

Effective Date of Repeal

Repeal effective Oct. 1, 2012, see section 3(a) of Pub. L. 112–141, set out as an Effective and Termination Dates of 2012 Amendment note under section 101 of this title.

§412. Agency accountability

(a) Triennial State Management Reviews.—

(1) In general.—Except as provided under paragraph (2), the Secretary shall conduct a review of each State highway safety program at least once every 3 years.

(2) Exceptions.—The Secretary may conduct reviews of the highway safety programs of the United States Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands as often as the Secretary determines to be appropriate.

(3) Components.—Reviews under this subsection shall include—

(A) a management evaluation of all grant programs funded under this chapter;

(B) an assessment of State data collection and evaluation relating to performance measures established by the Secretary;

(C) a comparison of State efforts under subparagraphs (A) and (B) to best practices and programs that have been evaluated for effectiveness; and

(D) the development of recommendations on how each State could—

(i) improve the management and oversight of its grant activities; and

(ii) provide a management and oversight plan for such grant programs.


(b) Recommendations Before Submission.—In order to provide guidance to State highway safety agencies on matters that should be addressed in the goals and initiatives of the State highway safety program before the program is submitted for review, the Secretary shall provide data-based recommendations to each State at least 90 days before the date on which the program is to be submitted for approval.

(c) State Program Review.—The Secretary shall—

(1) conduct a program improvement review of a highway safety program under this chapter of a State that does not make substantial progress over a 3-year period in meeting its priority program goals; and

(2) provide technical assistance and safety program requirements to be incorporated in the State highway safety program for any goal not achieved.


(d) Regional Harmonization.—The Secretary and the Inspector General of the Department of Transportation shall undertake an administrative review of the practices and procedures of the management reviews and program reviews of State highway safety programs under this chapter conducted by the regional offices of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and prepare a written report of best practices and procedures for use by the regional offices in conducting such reviews. The report shall be completed within 180 days after the date of enactment of this section.

(e) Best Practices Guidelines.—

(1) Uniform guidelines.—The Secretary shall issue uniform management review guidelines and program review guidelines based on the report under subsection (d). Each regional office shall use the guidelines in executing its State administrative review duties under this section.

(2) Publication.—The Secretary shall make publicly available on the Web site (or successor electronic facility) of the Administration the following documents upon their completion:

(A) The Secretary's management review guidelines and program review guidelines.

(B) All State highway safety programs submitted under this chapter.

(C) State annual accomplishment reports.

(D) The Administration's Summary Report of findings from Management Reviews and Improvement Plans.


(3) Reports to state highway safety agencies.—The Secretary may not make publicly available a program, report, or review under paragraph (2) that is directed to a State highway safety agency until after the date on which the program, report, or review is submitted to that agency under this chapter.

(Added Pub. L. 109–59, title II, §2008(a), Aug. 10, 2005, 119 Stat. 1533; amended Pub. L. 112–141, div. C, title I, §31107, July 6, 2012, 126 Stat. 755.)

References in Text

The date of enactment of this section, referred to in subsec. (d), is the date of enactment of Pub. L. 109–59, which was approved Aug. 10, 2005.

Amendments

2012—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 112–141, §31107(1), amended subsec. (a) generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: “At least once every 3 years the Secretary shall conduct a review of each State highway safety program. The review shall include a management evaluation of all grant programs funded under this chapter. The Secretary shall provide review-based recommendations on how each State could improve the management and oversight of its grant activities and may provide a management and oversight plan for such grant programs.”

Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 112–141, §31107(2), struck out subsec. (f) which related to GAO review.

Effective Date of 2012 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 112–141 effective Oct. 1, 2012, see section 3(a) of Pub. L. 112–141, set out as an Effective and Termination Dates of 2012 Amendment note under section 101 of this title.