The FAST Act amended 23 U.S.C. 129 and 23 U.S.C. 166 to address equal access to toll or HOV facilities for OTRBs. Sections 1411(a) and (b) of the FAST Act contained new requirements regarding the treatment of OTRBs that access toll highways and HOV facilities.
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Text of the Equal Access for Over-the-Road Buses Flyer
Equal Access for Over-the-Road Buses
What does Equal Access mean for OTRBs?
Over-the-road buses (OTRBs) that serve the public must have access to toll facilities under the same rates, terms, and conditions as public transportation vehicles. (23 U.S.C. 129)
What toll facilities must provide Equal Access for OTRBs?
Only Federal-aid toll facilities subject to 23 U.S.C. 129 (general tolling program) or 23 U.S.C. 166 (high occupancy vehicle lanes) must provide equal access to OTRBs. Visit FHWA's website to learn about toll facilities affected.
What qualifies as an OTRB?
An OTRB is a bus with an elevated passenger deck located over a baggage compartment (23 U.S.C. 129). To receive equal access, the OTRB must serve the public. Serving the public means a provision of service to the general public, including general or special service (including charter service) on a regular and continuing basis.
Questions?
See Memorandum: Equal Access for Over-the-Road Buses to learn more or email OTRB@dot.gov.
Except for the statutes and regulations cited, the contents of this document do not have the force and effect of law and are not meant to bind the States or the public in any way. This document is intended only to provide information regarding existing requirements under the law or agency policies.
