Transit Bus Affordability Act

The Transit Bus Affordability Act would require the Comptroller General of the United States (the head of the Government Accountability Office, GAO) to study why transit bus manufacturing and procurement costs are high and rising in the United States, and to propose ways to reduce those costs and improve the efficient use of federal, state, and local funds. The review must analyze cost drivers in bus design and procurement, compare US costs with other countries, examine price trends over the last decade relative to similar vehicles, assess how manufacturing and supplier challenges affect procurements funded by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA)—including programs for low- or no-emission buses and the 5339 Bus and Bus Facilities grants—and evaluate what steps have already been taken by the Administrator of the FTA, states, transit agencies, manufacturers, and other stakeholders to cut costs and speed delivery. It also requires consideration of the impact of state contracts and joint procurement, and any additional authorities that might help minimize costs and delays. The GAO must report its findings within 18 months of enactment to the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee.