WASHINGTON - As part of the Biden-Harris Administration's commitment to advancing equity, the U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Transit Administration (FTA) is seeking input through a Request for Information (RFI) from transit agencies, transit planners and especially those who ride and use transit systems regarding improving equitable access to public transportation nationwide. FTA will use these public comments to update its Title VI guidance, the primary policy document addressing civil rights rules for transit.

"When it comes to transit, we cannot leave anyone behind," said FTA Administrator Nuria Fernandez." Learning from community members allows us to ensure that all voices are heard, address civil rights challenges, and ensure equitable treatment through the implementation of Title VI."

FTA hopes to encourage transformative change and ensure a stronger commitment to equity throughout the transit industry. In addition to transit agencies and transit industry organizations, FTA wants to hear from riders, advocacy groups, and stakeholders, particularly from underserved communities, on how FTA can update its Title VI guidance. Specifically, FTA is looking for input on ways to help transit agencies:

• Strengthen the role of public participation in planning decisions;
• Better evaluate the impact of service and fare changes on riders and affected communities; and
• Ensure equitable implementation of rider conduct policies.

The RFI, published in the Federal Register, solicits input on potential updates for FTA's Title VI Circular, which outlines requirements and guidelines and was last updated in 2012. Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, along with the DOT Title VI regulations, prohibits discrimination based on race, color, or national origin in federally funded programs, including public transportation services.

FTA is calling on transit agencies, transit riders and anyone interested in transit to review the RFI and provide input. The RFI closes Monday, January 3, 2022.

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