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DOT Victim and Survivor Advocate Act

2/28/2025, 5:23 AM

Summary of Bill HR 851

Bill 119 HR 851, also known as the National Roadway Safety Advocate Act, aims to create a new position within the Department of Transportation called the National Roadway Safety Advocate. This advocate would be responsible for promoting and advocating for roadway safety initiatives across the country.

The bill outlines the duties of the National Roadway Safety Advocate, which include conducting research on roadway safety issues, developing and implementing safety programs, and collaborating with state and local governments to improve roadway safety. The advocate would also be tasked with raising public awareness about the importance of safe driving practices and advocating for policies that enhance roadway safety.

In addition to establishing the position of National Roadway Safety Advocate, the bill also includes provisions for funding the advocate's office and ensuring that the advocate has the resources necessary to carry out their duties effectively. Overall, Bill 119 HR 851 seeks to prioritize roadway safety and reduce the number of accidents and fatalities on our nation's roads. By creating the position of National Roadway Safety Advocate, the bill aims to improve safety for all drivers, passengers, and pedestrians.

Congressional Summary of HR 851

DOT Victim and Survivor Advocate Act

This bill directs the Department of Transportation (DOT) to establish the position of National Roadway Safety Advocate to work directly with victims and survivors of road crashes and their families (i.e., stakeholders).

Specifically, the purposes of the advocate are to (1) document and communicate recommendations from stakeholders to DOT on the needs, objectives, plans, approaches, content, and accomplishments of DOT's roadway safety programs and activities; and (2) serve as a resource and point of contact for stakeholders on relevant roadway safety issues.

The bill specifies that the advocate position must be filled by a career appointment.

The bill prohibits the advocate from taking certain actions, such as

  • creating or authorizing DOT policies, priorities, or activities; or
  • disclosing or discussing any enforcement matters that are under investigation or in litigation.

The advocate must submit an annual report to DOT highlighting systemic issues relating to roadway safety based on information provided by stakeholders. The report must include recommendations on how to remedy the issues.

Current Status of Bill HR 851

Bill HR 851 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since January 31, 2025. Bill HR 851 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the House on January 31, 2025.  Bill HR 851's most recent activity was Referred to the Subcommittee on Highways and Transit. as of February 1, 2025

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 851

Total Number of Sponsors
3
Democrat Sponsors
3
Republican Sponsors
0
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
0
Democrat Cosponsors
0
Republican Cosponsors
0
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 851

Primary Policy Focus

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 851

To establish the position of National Roadway Safety Advocate within the Department of Transportation, and for other purposes.
To establish the position of National Roadway Safety Advocate within the Department of Transportation, and for other purposes.

Comments

Sponsors and Cosponsors of HR 851

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