H.R. 9424: Save Our Pedestrians Act of 2026

This bill would require states to dedicate part of their federal highway safety money to pedestrian safety. Starting in fiscal year 2027, the Secretary of Transportation would have to make sure that 5% of certain federal funds given to each state are spent on projects meant to reduce injuries and deaths at high-risk pedestrian crossings.

What counts as a high-risk pedestrian crossing?

The bill defines this as a pedestrian crossing on a highway that a state, working with local governments, identifies as having a high number of crashes, injuries, or deaths involving pedestrians and motor vehicles.

What the money could be used for

The bill does not list specific project types, but it says the money must go to highway safety improvement projects aimed at reducing pedestrian injuries and fatalities at those crossings. In practice, this could include measures such as better signals, lighting, markings, signage, traffic calming, crosswalk redesigns, or other safety improvements at dangerous crossings.

Who would be affected

The main entities affected would be:

• State transportation departments, which would have to reserve the required share of funds.
• Local governments, which would be consulted in identifying dangerous crossings.
• Federal transportation officials, who would oversee the requirement.

Relevant Companies

• None found