WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today urged swift passage of legislation to improve the safety of buses traveling on America’s roads. This comes in the wake of two fatal bus crashes over the holiday weekend.

“I am saddened by news that lives were lost to bus crashes over the Memorial Day weekend,” Chairman Rockefeller said. “Americans should not have to fear for their safety when traveling our nation’s roadways, especially when they travel to be with loved ones. I expect the bus industry to fulfill its obligations to operate at the level of safety its passengers expect and deserve. That is why I’m fighting to pass legislation to strengthen bus safety and improve driver training.”

Earlier this month, the Commerce Committee unanimously approved legislation authored by Senator Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) and Ranking Member Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), the Motorcoach Enhanced Safety Act of 2011. The bill will impose stricter safety standards on motorcoaches and their operators, including safety belts and improved driver training. The bill now awaits consideration by the full Senate.

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