# DeSaulnier Introduces Better Transit for Riders Act

Representative Mark DeSaulnier introduced the Better Transit for Riders Act on October 1, 2026. The proposed legislation would establish a task force to develop benchmarks and best practices for transit funding, operations, regional coordination, data interoperability, and rider experience. Separately, an amendment to H.R. 8870 calling for a commuting-trends study has passed the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and awaits consideration by the full House. Neither action is a solicitation or contract award, but both could inform future transit agency priorities and related procurements if enacted or advanced.

- The proposed task force’s focus areas could shape future demand for transit data integration, fare systems, operational planning, and performance measurement services; these are potential needs, not current procurements.
- Contractors and technology providers should distinguish the introduced bill from enacted requirements and avoid treating its proposed benchmarks as mandatory at this stage.
- The H.R. 8870 amendment has cleared committee but still awaits full House consideration, so it does not yet establish a funded study opportunity.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Transportation
**Topics:** Policy, Digital Infrastructure
**Published:** October 01, 2026

### Government Entities
- U.S. House of Representatives (House)
- House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure
- Government Accountability Office (GAO)
- Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART)

### Key Quotes
> Increasing the reliability and efficiency of transit networks requires transit agencies to raise and use their resources effectively. By bringing together experts across the country, this legislation will help communities learn from successful models and provide their local transit agencies with the tools to better serve riders while ensuring their sustainability.
> — Mark DeSaulnier, Congressman

### Sources
- [Congressman DeSaulnier Introduces Legislation to Increase Public Transportation Accountability and Improve Rider Experience | Congressman Mark Desaulnier](https://desaulnier.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-desaulnier-introduces-legislation-increase-public) - Desaulnier