DOT Updates Rules to Fast-Track Eco Project Reviews

2026-06198 — Notice of Petition for Special Approval of Alternative Standard

IS Technology Solutions asked the Federal Railroad Administration to approve a new way to test single railcar air brakes using an automatic device instead of the old manual method. This change could speed up testing and reduce how often the device needs calibration, saving time and effort. People involved in railroad safety and equipment testing should share their thoughts by April 30, 2026.

2026-05920 — Agency Information Collection Activity Under OMB Review: State of Good Repair Program

The Federal Transit Administration wants to keep collecting info for its State of Good Repair Program without changing anything. This affects transit agencies that maintain buses and trains, helping them keep everything running smoothly. If you have thoughts, send them by May 26, 2026—no new costs or rules, just a paperwork extension!

2026-05918 — Agency Information Collection Activity Under OMB Review: Buses and Bus Facilities Formula and Competitive Programs and Low or No Emission Program

The Federal Transit Administration wants to keep collecting info for its bus and clean energy bus programs without changing anything. This affects transit agencies that get funding to improve buses and bus facilities, especially those focusing on low or no emission vehicles. If you have thoughts, send them in by May 26, 2026, so the government can keep supporting cleaner, better bus rides.

2026-05919 — Agency Information Collection Activity Under OMB Review: National Transit Asset Management (TAM) System

The Federal Transit Administration wants to keep collecting info through the National Transit Asset Management (TAM) System, which helps track and care for public transit vehicles and equipment. This affects transit agencies across the country and won’t change how they report, but they need to send comments by May 26, 2026. No new costs or big changes are planned—just a smooth extension to keep things running.

2026-05921 — Agency Information Collection Activity Under OMB Review: 49 U.S.C. 5310 Capital Assistance Program for Elderly Persons and Persons With Disabilities & Section 5311 Nonurbanized Area Formula Program

The Federal Transit Administration wants to keep collecting info for programs that help elderly folks, people with disabilities, and rural communities get around. They’re asking for public comments by May 26, 2026, but no big changes or new costs are planned. If you or your community rely on these transit programs, now’s the time to speak up!

2026-05152 — Announcement of Fiscal Year 2026 Grants for Buses and Bus Facilities Program Project Selections

The Federal Transit Administration is awarding $388 million to 34 projects that will help states and public agencies buy new buses, fix old ones, and improve bus facilities in 2026. This funding supports cleaner, safer, and better bus services across the country. If you applied, get ready to start your projects soon and reach out to your regional office for next steps!

Previous: 2025-12363 — Recission of NHTSA's 1975 Procedures for Considering Environmental Impacts

NHTSA is ditching its old 1975 rules for checking environmental impacts because they’re outdated and no longer valid. Instead, NHTSA will follow the newer, updated Department of Transportation rules to keep things fresh and clear. This change affects anyone involved in vehicle safety and environmental reviews, with no extra costs or delays expected.

Next: 2025-12383 — Revision of National Environmental Policy Act Implementing Procedures

The Department of Energy is updating its rules to make environmental reviews simpler and clearer by moving most procedures to a separate guidance document. This change mainly affects DOE staff and anyone involved in DOE projects, speeding up routine actions and emergencies without extra paperwork. The new rules start right away and aim to save time and money by cutting red tape.