Legislative Strategy
ZEBRA's combined understanding of transit and real-world experiences enhances our ability to build relationships and find creative solutions. We have unified representation on important programs and policies while simultaneously remaining active within our individual agencies. Our legislative strategy recognizes that battery electric buses have dominated the market and fuel cell electric buses would benefit from a larger share of Federal funding. ZEBRA also supports funding beyond the vehicle itself, with facility and technology selections matched to service needs and long-term agency goals.
Policies and Programs Supported
- Providing adequate funding for both battery-electric and hydrogen fuel cell vehicle technology deployments, including programs that explicitly support short- and long-term infrastructure investments.
- Expanding Federal grant programs such as Zero-emission Bus Program (Low-No) and Bus and Bus Facilities Programs.
- Funding fleet transition plans to better understand and manage challenges with evaluating options, identifying performance needs, and deploying zero-emission buses.
- Funding and expanding technical assistance for zero-emission buses, which is critical in reducing deployment risks, maximizing service efficiencies, and minimizing operating costs.
- Funding workforce development programs to train transit front-line staff and entry level candidates on battery and fuel cell technologies and fueling infrastructure.