STAR Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Adams, Alma S. [D-NC-12]
- Committees
- Transportation and Infrastructure Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Apr 21, 2026
Bottom line
The STAR Act enables federal transit grants to cover the additional costs associated with integrating art and aesthetic design into public transit infrastructure projects.
What it actually does
This bill, the "Saving Transit Art Resources Act" or "STAR Act," amends title 49 of the United States Code to remove existing prohibitions on using federal transit funds for the incremental costs of incorporating art or aesthetic design into public transportation facilities, structures, or equipment. Specifically, it strikes a paragraph in Section 5323(h) and a special rule in Section 5309, thereby allowing these funds to be used for such purposes.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that incorporating art and aesthetic design into public transit facilities enhances the rider experience, promotes civic pride, and contributes to the cultural vibrancy of communities. They contend that art can make public spaces more inviting, reduce vandalism, and even improve safety by fostering a more cared-for environment. Allowing federal funds for these incremental costs ensures that communities are not financially penalized for choosing to integrate art into their infrastructure.
Opponents contend
Critics might argue that federal transit funds should be strictly reserved for core transportation functions, such as improving efficiency, safety, and expanding service, rather than aesthetic enhancements. They may contend that using taxpayer money for art projects, even incremental costs, diverts resources from critical infrastructure needs and could be seen as an unnecessary expenditure when budgets are tight. Opponents might suggest that art funding should come from local or private sources if communities prioritize it.
The bill is very concise and can be fully understood in a matter of minutes, making it highly accessible for public review.
Section 2(a)
Removal of Prohibition on Art Funding in Allowable Costs
This provision amends Section 5323(h) of title 49, United States Code, which outlines allowable costs for federal transit grants. It specifically strikes paragraph (2), which previously prohibited the use of these funds for the incremental costs of incorporating art or aesthetic design into transit facilities. By removing this prohibition, the bill makes it permissible to use federal transit funds for such artistic and aesthetic enhancements.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this provision removes an arbitrary barrier, allowing transit agencies to create more appealing and community-integrated public spaces. They believe art can humanize infrastructure, foster a sense of place, and contribute to the overall well-being of transit users and surrounding neighborhoods.
Critics contend
Opponents might contend that this change could lead to federal funds being used for non-essential aesthetic projects instead of critical maintenance, safety upgrades, or service expansion. They may argue that local communities should bear the full cost of art integration if they prioritize it, without federal subsidy.
Tradeoffs
The provision balances the desire for aesthetically pleasing public spaces with the need to prioritize core infrastructure investments. It creates a tension between allocating limited federal funds to functional necessities versus cultural and community enrichment.
Section 2(b)
Repeal of Special Rule for Art and Aesthetic Design
This provision repeals subsection (p) of Section 5309 of title 49, United States Code, which previously contained a "Special Rule for Art and Aesthetic Design." This special rule explicitly stated that funds made available under Section 5309 (Capital Investment Grants) could not be used for the incremental costs of incorporating art or aesthetic design. Its removal aligns with the changes in Section 5323(h), reinforcing the intent to allow federal capital investment grants to cover these costs.