This bill matters because public safety on buses, trains, and at transit stations is a major concern for many people, directly impacting their willingness to use public transportation. If this bill becomes law, it would provide dedicated federal funding to help cities address crime and improve security on their transit systems, potentially leading to fewer incidents, a safer feeling for riders, and increased ridership. This could make public transit a more reliable and attractive option for commuting and travel, reducing traffic congestion and promoting environmental benefits.
Without this bill, urban transit systems would continue to rely on existing funding streams or their own limited budgets to tackle rising safety issues. This could mean fewer resources for hiring security personnel or upgrading infrastructure, potentially leading to persistent safety concerns that deter riders and impact the overall quality of urban life. The required study also matters because it aims to identify proven strategies, helping transit agencies nationwide make more effective decisions about crime prevention.
KEY PROVISIONS
5AI-extracted
PROVISION 01
Creates a new federal grant program for public transportation systems in urban areas to address crime prevention and security.
This establishes a dedicated funding stream specifically for improving safety on public transit.
PROVISION 02
Expands eligibility for these grants, making them available to any urban public transportation entity that can receive funds under Section 5307, regardless of its population size.
This means more cities, including smaller urban areas, can access federal funding to enhance transit security.
PROVISION 03
Allows grant funds to be used for hiring additional police officers, contracting with local police, and physical infrastructure upgrades like monitoring devices and operator shields.
This provides flexibility for transit agencies to implement a range of security measures tailored to their specific needs.
PROVISION 04
Authorizes $50 million annually for fiscal years 2026 through 2030 for these crime prevention and security grants.
This sets aside specific federal money over a five-year period to fund these safety initiatives.
PROVISION 05
Requires the Secretary of Transportation to conduct a study on effective crime prevention tactics and best practices for transit agencies.
This will provide data and recommendations to help transit agencies make informed decisions about security strategies.
This bill matters because public safety on buses, trains, and at transit stations is a major concern for many people, directly impacting their willingness to use public transportation. If this bill becomes law, it would provide dedicated federal funding to help cities address crime and improve security on their transit systems, potentially leading to fewer incidents, a safer feeling for riders, and increased ridership. This could make public transit a more reliable and attractive option for commuting and travel, reducing traffic congestion and promoting environmental benefits.
Without this bill, urban transit systems would continue to rely on existing funding streams or their own limited budgets to tackle rising safety issues. This could mean fewer resources for hiring security personnel or upgrading infrastructure, potentially leading to persistent safety concerns that deter riders and impact the overall quality of urban life. The required study also matters because it aims to identify proven strategies, helping transit agencies nationwide make more effective decisions about crime prevention.
KEY PROVISIONS
AI-extracted
high
Creates a new federal grant program for public transportation systems in urban areas to address crime prevention and security.
This establishes a dedicated funding stream specifically for improving safety on public transit.
high
Expands eligibility for these grants, making them available to any urban public transportation entity that can receive funds under Section 5307, regardless of its population size.
This means more cities, including smaller urban areas, can access federal funding to enhance transit security.
med
Allows grant funds to be used for hiring additional police officers, contracting with local police, and physical infrastructure upgrades like monitoring devices and operator shields.
This provides flexibility for transit agencies to implement a range of security measures tailored to their specific needs.
high
Authorizes $50 million annually for fiscal years 2026 through 2030 for these crime prevention and security grants.
This sets aside specific federal money over a five-year period to fund these safety initiatives.
med
Requires the Secretary of Transportation to conduct a study on effective crime prevention tactics and best practices for transit agencies.
This will provide data and recommendations to help transit agencies make informed decisions about security strategies.
Operating Grants for Crime Prevention and Security for Public Transportation Systems
discretionary
Fiscal Years 2026-2030
GLOSSARY
AI-written
Urbanized Area
A geographical area with a certain population density and size, as defined by the Census Bureau, often referring to cities and their surrounding suburbs.
Public Transportation Systems
Transportation services available to the general public, such as buses, subways, light rail, and commuter trains, typically operated by government agencies or private companies under contract.
Operating Grants
Federal funds provided to cover the day-to-day costs of running a program or service, as opposed to capital grants for building or buying major assets.
Transit Stations
Designated places where passengers can board or exit public transportation vehicles, such as bus stops or train stations.
Authorization of Appropriations
A legislative act that permits money to be set aside for a specific program or purpose, but does not actually provide the money itself; a separate appropriations act is needed to provide the funds.
Fiscal Year
A 12-month accounting period for financial purposes. For the U.S. government, it runs from October 1st to September 30th of the following calendar year.
Section 5307
ACTION TIMELINE
3 EVENTS
NOV 26, 25
Referred to the Subcommittee on Highways and Transit.
COMMITTEE
NOV 25, 25
Introduced in House
INTROREFERRAL
NOV 25, 25
Referred to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
A specific section of federal law (Title 49, United States Code) that deals with Urbanized Area Formula Grants for public transportation, providing funds to larger urban areas.
Transportation Research Board
A division of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine that provides independent research and advice on transportation issues.
