Press Releases

This week, Congresswoman Frederica Wilson introduced the ‘Transportation Equity Act.’ The bill aims to re-establish an advisory committee that would independently advise the Secretary of Transportation to help advance equity in transportation planning and policy through collaboration with diverse stakeholders.

Congresswoman Frederica Wilson said, “While the Administration is busy eliminating programs aimed at increasing equal opportunity for all, I am focused on empowering communities to have a greater say in how transportation policies and investments are implemented. All Americans deserve a seat at the table in shaping their transportation futures. Whether it's folks who don’t live near any public transit, those who can’t afford the fares, or people with disabilities who need extra support to get around, our government should all be in the business of providing better transportation resources to every single person. That is why I’m introducing the ‘Transportation Equity Act’ to reinstate the Transportation Equity Advisory Committee. This bill will empower stakeholders from diverse backgrounds to collaborate on solutions that promote accessibility, reduce disparities, and create fair opportunities for all Americans.”

The bill is also cosponsored by Henry C. “Hank” Johnson Jr (GA-04), André Carson (IN-7), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), and LaMonica McIver (NJ-10).

This bill is supported by the Transportation Choices Coalition, Autistic Women & Nonbinary Network, The Alliance - Blue Line Coalition, Alliance for Metropolitan Stability, CNT, America Walks, Madison Area Bus Advocates, Detroit Greenways Coalition, National Association of City Transportation Officials (NACTO), The Equiticity Racial Equity Movement, Freedom to Move Youth Movement, formerly National Organizations for Youth Safety (NOYS), Vehicles for Change, and Local Initiatives Support Corporation.

The bill does the following:

·       Re-establishes the Transportation Equity Committee: The bill mandates the creation of an advisory committee to provide independent advice to the Secretary of Transportation on issues related to transportation equity.

·       Focuses on Diverse Perspectives: The bill ensures balanced representation from a wide variety of stakeholders, including community groups, academia, industries, and marginalized communities, to guarantee a comprehensive approach to transportation planning.

·       Develops Strategic Recommendations: The committee will create a strategic plan that will include recommendations on national transportation metrics and assess the impacts of transportation on economic development and public engagement.

·       Evaluates and Enhances Community Connectivity: The bill empowers the committee to evaluate the Department of Transportation's efforts in connecting individuals to economic opportunities, with the aim of revitalizing communities through equitable transportation policies.

For the bill text, click here.

For a one-pager bill description, click here.

For the section-by-section, click here.

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