Nye Works for HOV Lane Exemptions for Service Members

Press Release

Congressman Glenn Nye (VA-02) introduced today H.R. 5867, The Military Personnel Readiness Act of 2010, legislation that would allow active duty service members to drive in HOV lanes in Hampton Roads even when driving alone.

Earlier this year the Virginia General Assembly voted to allow this military exception. The U.S. Department of Transportation, however, declared the state law a violation of federal law, which could threaten future transportation funding for the commonwealth.

Nye's legislation amends federal law and makes room for this exemption -- giving states the option of allowing active duty service members, law enforcement and emergency response personnel to drive in HOV lanes even if unaccompanied. The legislation is extremely flexible, giving states control over their participation and implementation.

The legislation also initiates a study by the U.S. Government Accountability Office to evaluate the effect of traffic congestion on military readiness in areas of dense military activity, such as Hampton Roads. The findings of the study will assist states in deciding whether to partake in the HOV lanes exemptions and whether traffic congestion has national security implications.

"Traffic congestion is a serious problem in Hampton Roads, and our HOV lanes are often under-utilized," Nye said. "This legislation will help ease traffic for everyone in the region, and make sure our military and emergency response personnel get where they need to go."

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