Shared Micromobility Investment Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Hoyle, Val T. [D-OR-4]
- Committees
- Transportation and Infrastructure Committee (primary)
- Last action
- May 11, 2026
Bottom line
The bill opens up federal transportation funding streams for shared bike and scooter programs, aiming to boost alternative transportation options and reduce carbon emissions.
What it actually does
This bill expands the eligibility for federal surface transportation funding to include shared micromobility projects, such as bikesharing and shared-scooter systems. It amends three existing federal programs: the Surface Transportation Block Grant Program, the Carbon Reduction Program, and the Local and Regional Project Assistance program, allowing these funds to be used for micromobility infrastructure and systems.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that this bill will accelerate the adoption of sustainable transportation options, reduce traffic congestion, and lower carbon emissions in urban and suburban areas. They contend that micromobility projects offer an affordable and accessible 'last mile' solution, enhancing public transit connectivity and providing equitable transportation choices for communities.
Opponents contend
Critics might express concerns that expanding eligibility to micromobility projects could divert limited federal funds from traditional infrastructure needs like roads, bridges, and public transit systems. They may also raise issues about the safety implications of increased micromobility use, the need for dedicated infrastructure, and the potential for these systems to primarily benefit specific demographics rather than broad public transportation needs.
The bill is exceptionally short and clearly written, making it very accessible for any reader to understand its provisions and implications quickly.
Section 2(a)
Eligibility for Surface Transportation Block Grant Program
This provision amends section 133(b) of title 23, United States Code, to explicitly include 'shared micromobility projects (including investments in bikesharing or shared-scooter systems)' as eligible for funding under the Surface Transportation Block Grant Program (STBG). This means state and local governments can now use STBG funds, which are flexible federal aid, for developing or expanding shared bike and scooter programs.
Supporters argue
Proponents argue that this expansion allows communities to integrate micromobility into their broader transportation planning, addressing congestion and environmental goals more effectively by leveraging a major federal funding source.
Critics contend
Opponents might contend that STBG funds are already stretched thin for critical road and bridge maintenance, and this expansion could dilute resources for traditional infrastructure, potentially leading to less funding for core needs.
Tradeoffs
The provision balances the desire to fund innovative, sustainable transportation solutions with the ongoing demand for maintaining and improving existing road infrastructure.
Section 2(b)
Eligibility for Carbon Reduction Program
This section amends section 175(c)(1) of title 23, United States Code, to add 'a shared micromobility project (including investments in bikesharing or shared-scooter systems)' as an eligible use for funds under the Carbon Reduction Program (CRP). This program is specifically designed to reduce transportation emissions, and this amendment allows states to directly fund micromobility initiatives to achieve those carbon reduction goals.
Section 2(c)
Eligibility for Local and Regional Project Assistance (RAISE/BUILD/TIGER Grants)
This provision amends section 6702(a)(3) of title 49, United States Code, to make shared micromobility projects eligible for funding under the Local and Regional Project Assistance program, commonly known as RAISE, BUILD, or TIGER grants. These are discretionary grants awarded by the Department of Transportation for nationally significant surface transportation projects, and this change allows micromobility projects to compete for these competitive funds.