DOT Victim and Survivor Advocate Act
DOT Victim and Survivor Advocate Act
Plain Language Summary
# DOT Victim and Survivor Advocate Act Summary **What the bill would do:** This bill would require the Department of Transportation to create a new position called the National Roadway Safety Advocate. This person would serve as a dedicated liaison between road crash victims, survivors, and their families on one side, and the DOT on the other. The advocate would gather feedback from these stakeholders about their needs and concerns, communicate their recommendations to DOT leadership, and provide information and support to victims and families navigating roadway safety issues. **Who it affects and key limitations:** The bill directly benefits victims of car crashes and their families by giving them an official point of contact within the federal government. However, the advocate would have limited authority—they cannot create new policies, set priorities, or make enforcement decisions.
They also cannot discuss ongoing investigations or legal cases. The bill requires the position to be filled through standard career civil service processes rather than political appointment. **Current status:** The bill is currently in committee and has not yet been voted on by Congress. It was introduced by Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico) in the 119th Congress.
CRS Official Summary
DOT Victim and Survivor Advocate ActThis 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 or 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 ascreating or authorizing DOT policies, priorities, or activities; ordisclosing 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.
Latest Action
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.