H.R. 851 — DOT Victim and Survivor Advocate Act

This section establishes, not later than 180 days after enactment, a career position of National Roadway Safety Advocate within the Department of Transportation's (DOT) Office of the Under Secretary of Transportation for Policy to communicate recommendations from stakeholders—defined as road crash victims, survivors, and their family members (not limited to immediate relatives)—on DOT roadway safety programs and activities to the Secretary of Transportation; serve as a resource and point of contact for stakeholders; and provide education on DOT processes in plain language and multiple languages. The position authorizes the Advocate to explain DOT activities to stakeholders, aggregate stakeholder feedback on the regulatory agenda, build relationships through outreach, publish educational materials, recommend stakeholders for advisory committees, meet quarterly with the Secretary, and perform other duties as directed—subject to limitations prohibiting legal advice, decision-making, policy creation, interference with enforcement or personnel matters, or delays to agency deadlines. The Office of the Under Secretary for Policy provides funding, logistics, administrative support, and ensures the Advocate's access to DOT documents; the Advocate reports within that office and submits annual reports to the Secretary by November 15 highlighting systemic roadway safety issues from stakeholders and recommending remedies, plus additional reports as needed.