Roadway Safety Modernization Act of 2025
Summary
The Roadway Safety Modernization Act of 2025 aims to improve highway safety by integrating advanced technologies like predictive data analytics and telematics into existing highway and freight safety programs. It amends Title 23 of the United States Code to allow grant recipients to utilize these technologies for enhanced safety efforts. The act also mandates the Secretary of Transportation to develop guidance on data anonymization, transparency, and the validation of methodologies used in these technologies.
Expected Effects
This act will likely lead to safer roadways through better data analysis and risk modeling. It could also spur innovation in transportation technology and improve the efficiency of freight transportation. The guidance from the Secretary of Transportation will shape how these technologies are implemented and used.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced highway safety through the use of predictive analytics and telematics.
- Improved freight safety and performance-based planning.
- Development and deployment of safety data tools.
- Encouragement of data-driven decision-making in highway safety programs.
- Potential for reduced crashes, injuries, and fatalities.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential privacy concerns related to the collection and use of personal data.
- Risk of bias or inaccuracy in predictive analytics if not properly validated.
- Increased costs associated with implementing new technologies and data systems.
- Potential for unequal access to the benefits of these technologies in different areas.
- The need for ongoing training and maintenance of new systems.
Constitutional Alignment
The act aligns with the Constitution's mandate to "promote the general Welfare" (Preamble) by aiming to improve public safety and infrastructure. Congress's authority to regulate interstate commerce (Article I, Section 8) provides a basis for federal involvement in highway and freight safety programs. The act's emphasis on data privacy and security also implicitly acknowledges the Fourth Amendment's protection against unreasonable searches and seizures.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).