LaHood Introduces Legislation to Support Motorcoach Industry and Transportation Service Providers

[July 24, 2020]   Congressman Darin LaHood (R-IL) today introduced the Coronavirus Economic Relief for Transportation Services (CERTS) Act of 2020 in the U.S House of Representatives with Rep. Albio Sires (D-NJ), which will support transportation service operators that have been disproportionately impacted by COVID-19. The legislation was previously introduced in the U.S. Senate by Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Jack Reed (D-RI).

Due to COVID-19, transportation service providers are facing a significant loss of business and increased operating costs due to expanded public health guidelines for social distancing, PPE, and disinfecting of surfaces and equipment. The CERTS Act will provide $10 billion in emergency economic relief funding, in the form of grants and other economic assistance, through the U.S. Department of the Treasury, to motorcoach operators, school bus companies, U.S. flag passenger vessel operators, and other U.S. transportation service providers designated by the Secretary of the Treasury in consultation with the Secretary of Transportation.

“Illinois’ motorcoach and bus companies provide important transportation services to communities across our region and offer good-paying jobs,” said Rep. LaHood. “Staple transportation companies in Central Illinois, like Peoria Charter Coach, have been disproportionately impacted by coronavirus.

"These small businesses are struggling to keep employees on payroll and pay for business expenses. In addition to previous assistance through the Payment Protection Program, if enacted, this bipartisan legislation will provide further support for the motorcoach industry and transportation service providers, ensuring that our critical transportation system gets through this difficult time.”

"We have been very moved over the past few days from the support that we have received from the community and especially Representative Darin LaHood. By presenting the CERTS Act in the House of Representatives, the Congressman is giving Peoria Charter Coach and the motorcoach industry a fighting chance to survive the pandemic. Thank you Congressman LaHood for hearing our desperate cries for help,” added Bill Winkler, President/Owner of Peoria Charter Coach.

[Office of Congressman Darin LaHood]