Public transportation is an essential component of modern cities, with buses, trains, and subways carrying large numbers of passengers to their destinations daily. But, like all public services, these systems need to operate under regulations that ensure the safety of passengers, protect the environment, and prevent economic exploitation.
A wide range of legislation governs public transportation at the federal, state, and local levels. In this article, we will take a closer look at the various laws and regulations that dictate how public transportation systems operate.
Federal Laws
The federal government has a role in regulating public transportation, and several laws have been enacted to ensure that these systems operate safely and effectively. Some of the most notable federal laws include:
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
The ADA was passed in 1990 to ensure that individuals with disabilities have equal access to various public services, including public transportation. Public transit agencies are required to provide accessible transportation for people with disabilities, including wheelchair-accessible buses and trains. The law also mandates that transportation agencies provide alternative forms of transportation, like paratransit services, for those who can’t use fixed-route transit systems.
Federal Transit Administration (FTA)
The FTA is a branch of the Department of Transportation responsible for the administration and oversight of federal funding for public transportation. The agency provides financial assistance to public transit agencies and ensures compliance with federal laws and regulations. The FTA also conducts safety oversight inspections to ensure that public transportation systems are operating safely.
Rail Safety Improvement Act
The Rail Safety Improvement Act of 2008 focused on improving rail safety, including commuter railroad systems. The act required that all commuter rail systems implement Positive Train Control (PTC), which can automatically stop a train to prevent accidents caused by human error. The law aims to improve safety and reduce the number of accidents and fatalities on the nation’s rail systems.
Clean Air Act
The Clean Air Act, enacted in 1963 and last amended in 1990, aims to protect the nation’s air quality. Public transportation plays a critical role in reducing air pollution by providing an alternative to personal vehicles. The law restricts the amount of pollution that vehicles can emit and offers incentives for using eco-friendly transportation.
State and Local Laws
While the federal government has jurisdiction over transportation financing and some safety regulations, the majority of public transportation is regulated at the state and local levels. Generally, state laws deal with funding, transportation planning, and capital infrastructure, while local laws address the day-to-day operation of public transportation.
Local Government Ordinances
City and county governments institute ordinances that regulate public transportation systems that operate within their jurisdictions. These ordinances can govern facets of public transportation such as schedules, routes, and fares. In some cases, local laws also regulate how public transportation providers operate, including employment practices, minimum wage, and benefits.
Public Utility Commissions
In some states, public utility commissions oversee public transportation systems. These commissions regulate transportation billing and rates, including fare increases and surcharges. They can also require transportation providers to implement certain safety measures and ensure that company performance meets regulatory standards.
State Transit Authorities
Most U.S. states have transit authorities that regulate public transportation systems within their jurisdictions. These authorities can establish minimum standards for transportation providers, allocate funding for transportation projects, and set regulation for operators. The authorities may also license transportation providers and oversee consumer-protection issues such as lost or stolen property.
Conclusion
The laws and regulations that govern public transportation aim to ensure the safety of passengers, protect the environment, and promote access to transportation for all. The federal government oversees the financing and compliance of public transportation, while state and local governments regulate its operation.
In conclusion, the laws and regulations governing public transportation aim to balance the needs of passengers, transportation agencies, and communities. By ensuring that public transportation systems operate safely and sustainably, these laws contribute to the betterment of the human environment.