The motorcoach industry continually strives to improve the safety and security of bus operations. Tom Ridge, former Department of Homeland Security Secretary, once said the motorcoach idustry is "America's Strategic Transportation Reserve." Over the past few years, security training has become a key issue for all operators and a major issue for the industry.

Through SAFETEA-LU, more than $50 million has been secured to date by the motorcoach industry for security. This money can be used towards training, screening, lights, fences, security planning and more.

Disaster Preparedness: Principles for Partnering with Government

When disasters hit, the federal government is responsible for many logistical challenges. In the case of Hurricane Katrina, it was responsible for evacuating thousands of people, and if another disaster hit the area, as many as 200,000 people would need evacuating out of New Orleans. In the case of Katrina, the response of top officials at the departments of Transportation and Homeland Security, as well as the Federal Emergency Management Association, was to consult with us.

ABA's statement of principles highlights the main aim of the motorcoach industry: to help during an emergency.