Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.
Congressional Research Service
Official summary
Version 00 · Introduced in Senate · Feb 5, 2025
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 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 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.
Source last updated: Sep 8, 2026. Consult Congress.gov for the current record.
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