H.R. 8748: Surface Transportation Research and Development Act of 2026

This bill, titled the Surface Transportation Research and Development Act of 2026, focuses on enhancing research, development, and deployment of technologies related to surface transportation. Here’s a summary of its key provisions:

1. Extended Timeframe for Technology Programs

The bill updates the timeframe for technology and innovation programs related to highway and intermodal transportation systems. It changes the covered fiscal years from 2022 through 2026 to 2027 through 2031. This means the programs will continue to receive attention and funding over the new specified period.

2. Transportation Statistics Programs Updates

The bill amends section 6302 of title 49, United States Code, to enhance the coordination of transportation statistical activities. Key changes include:

• Mandatory protection of confidentiality and integrity of data collected for statistical purposes.
• Stronger authority for the Department to oversee the collection, analysis, and use of transportation data.

3. Formation of the Transportation Statistics Coordination Council

The bill establishes a Transportation Statistics Coordination Council within 90 days of enactment. This Council will:

• Coordinate various statistical activities and evaluations across the Department of Transportation.
• Identify duplicative or fragmented data assets and recommend ways to consolidate them to lessen the burden on entities that provide such data.
• Develop common data guidelines and standards for statistical activities within the Department.

4. Amendments to University Transportation Centers Program

Adjustments made to the university transportation centers program allow for greater flexibility in the funding process. It also updates the fiscal years for funding eligibility to 2027 through 2031.

5. Open Research Initiative Development

The Secretary of Transportation is directed to create an implementation plan transitioning an advanced transportation research pilot program into a sustained open research initiative. This will involve regular reporting to Congress on the progress made.

6. Study on Emerging Headlamp Technologies

A study is mandated to evaluate the safety effects of high-intensity LED and other advanced headlamp technologies. Key components of the study will include:

• Assessment of visibility, glare exposure, and roadway safety impact.
• Recommendations to mitigate any negative findings related to these technologies.

7. Strategy for Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement

The Secretary is required to devise a strategy promoting the standardization of reclaimed asphalt pavement in roadway construction. This will include:

• A review of existing practices and an inventory of activities related to reclaimed asphalt pavement.
• Analysis of cost-saving measures associated with increased use of reclaimed materials.

8. Amendments Related to Rail Research Programs

The bill amends provisions concerning rail research to include requirements for safety challenges related to commuter, passenger, and freight rail networks, focusing on hazardous material transport standards.

Relevant Companies

• CSX - As a major freight rail service provider, changes in rail safety research and standards may directly impact operational procedures and regulatory compliance for CSX.
• Union Pacific (UNP) - Similar to CSX, Union Pacific may need to adjust its practices concerning the transport of hazardous materials based on updated safety reviews.
• Vulcan Materials Company (VMC) - As a supplier of construction materials, Vulcan may be affected by changes in regulations regarding the use of reclaimed asphalt pavement and the paving standards established through the new strategies outlined in the bill.