States Looking Hard at TEA-21 Reauthorization

June 7, 2001
The National Association of Governors’ Highway Safety Representatives (NAGHSR) group released a report this week saying that consolidation of federal highway safety programs, continued guaranteed funding and no new sanctions are key safety-related actions Congress should take in the next surface transportation act reauthorization – known as TEA-21. NAGHSR members, who administer federal TEA-21 safety
The National Association of Governors’ Highway Safety Representatives (NAGHSR) group released a report this week saying that consolidation of federal highway safety programs, continued guaranteed funding and no new sanctions are key safety-related actions Congress should take in the next surface transportation act reauthorization – known as TEA-21. NAGHSR members, who administer federal TEA-21 safety programs, gave TEA-21 a mixed review. According to John Moffat, the group’s chairman, increased funding has brought challenges for the states.

The large number of incentive grants has divided the federal safety program and over-emphasized occupant protection and impaired driving while not fully addressing other important safety problems, said Moffat. The excessive number of programs also places large administrative burdens on the states, he added.

“Although well-intentioned, there are just too many programs and too much process. Because of this, less time is being spent on planning, program implementation and evaluation,” Moffat said.

To address these and other challenges, NAGHSR has issued 10 main recommendations. One includes authorizing one large Section 402 state highway safety grant program rather than the fragmented program currently in place. That should alleviate the tremendous burden placed on the states in administering so many programs and will allow for a more balanced safety effort, said Moffat.

The group also wants to alter lobbying restrictions so that federally funded state employees may lobby their state legislatures on behalf of their own governor's highway safety legislation.

About the Author

Sean Kilcarr | Editor in Chief

Sean reports and comments on trends affecting the many different strata of the trucking industry -- light and medium duty fleets up through over-the-road truckload, less-than-truckload, and private fleet operations Also be sure to visit Sean's blog Trucks at Work where he offers analysis on a variety of different topics inside the trucking industry.

Sponsored Recommendations

Tackling the Tech Shortage: Lessons in Recruiting Talent and Reducing Turnover

Discover innovative strategies for recruiting and retaining tech talent in the trucking industry at our April 16th webinar, where experts will share insights on competitive pay...

Stop Sweating Temperature Excursions

Advanced chemical indicators give you the peace of mind that comes from reliable insights into your supply chains. Compromised shipments can be identified the moment they arrive...

Stop Sweating Temperature Excursions

Advanced chemical indicators give you the peace of mind that comes from reliable insights into your supply chains. Compromised shipments can be identified the moment they arrive...

How Electric Vehicles Help You Prolong the Life of Your Fleet

Before adopting electric vehicles for commercial/government fleets, prioritize cost inquiries. Maintenance is essential; understand the upkeep of EV fleets. Here’s what you need...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of FleetOwner, create an account today!