Washington, D.C. – Congressman Mike Turner (OH-10) joined Congressman Maxwell Frost (FL-10) in introducing the Transit Bus Affordability Act. This bipartisan legislation would require the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to study the factors responsible for the high cost of procuring buses for public transit across the United States.
“As the former Mayor to the city of Dayton, I understand the burden procurement costs place on local transit agencies, which subsequently impact the availability and reliability for riders,” said Congressman Mike Turner. “That is why I am proud to work with Rep. Frost on the Transit Bus Affordability Act. Our bipartisan legislation will help inform lawmakers on the federal, state and local levels on options to lower bus costs – which will ultimately lead to savings-generating strategies for transit agencies providing essential services to riders in communities like Dayton and those across the country.”
“Public transit is a lifeline for folks who depend on these services to get to work, school, doctor appointments, and more,” said Congressman Maxwell Frost. “But the rising cost for a city or town to purchase a single bus is holding back local transit agencies from meeting demand and expanding service. This bipartisan bill with Rep. Turner is an important first step toward understanding the root of the problem and driving down costs so that communities can invest in more reliable, affordable transit options.”
Public transit usage is increasing and becoming more widespread, with 7.7 billion public transportation trips taken in 2024, and 6.5 million reported riders using regional transit in Dayton in 2023. With increasing ridership, cities and towns must enhance their capacity to deliver these services.
Despite the increase in use of public transportation, the cost of providing this service has not gone down. In 2023, a single transit bus could cost between $580,000 to $1,024,000. The federal government bears large portions of bus procurement costs through programs like the Buses and Bus Facilities program.
The Transit Bus Affordability Act would require the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to study the factors responsible for the high costs of procuring transit buses across the United States. The GAO study would also examine cost drivers, including supply chain challenges, and recommend policies to reduce bus prices. The Government Accountability Office would be required to report its findings to Congress.
As a member of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, Congressman Turner advocates for policies that reduce waste, fraud, and abuse in federally funded activities while ensuring that important services are protected for Americans.
Read the text of the bill here.