States Told to Actually Talk to People About Road Safety
Published Date: 6/11/2026
Rule
Summary
Starting July 13, 2026, states getting highway safety grants must follow clearer rules to involve their communities—especially those hit hardest by traffic crashes—in planning safety programs. This update makes it easier for states to show they’re listening and acting on public input, helping save lives and use grant money wisely. If you’re part of a state safety team, get ready for smoother, more open grant processes!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Triennial PP&E Requirement Removed
Starting July 13, 2026, States will no longer need to include the public participation and engagement (PP&E) section in their triennial Highway Safety Plan (23 CFR 1300.11(b)(2)). NHTSA estimates this change saves each of the 57 eligible respondents 64 hours and about $3,603.84 in labor once every three years, for a total estimated savings of $205,418.88 once every three years.
Annual Report PP&E Narrative Retained
States must still include a high-level PP&E narrative in their Annual Report (23 CFR 1300.35(b)(2)) describing the engagement activities carried out, the communities engaged, and how those efforts informed projects implemented during the grant year. NHTSA says the narrative should be a concise summary (States have submitted narratives as short as two to three paragraphs) and that there is no required minimum number of PP&E events.
Flexibility to Use Section 402 Funds for PP&E
NHTSA confirms States may use Section 402 program funds to pay subrecipients or other State partners to carry out PP&E activities and are not required to have a State highway safety office employee attend every PP&E event. NHTSA referenced guidance issued June 17, 2025, clarifying permissible uses of funds for PP&E activities.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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