Industry Growth

The National Park Service’s Commercial Use Authorization (CUA) program—required for operators conducting business in parks—creates a patchwork of duplicative fees, permits, and reporting standards that vary from park to park. These inconsistencies add significant administrative and financial burdens for motorcoach operators.

For group tour companies serving multiple parks, the process can delay access, increase costs, and reduce service availability—especially for student and senior groups.

ABA is advocating for a single, standardized CUA valid across all parks, along with simplified reporting requirements, to ensure equitable, efficient access for all.

Tariffs on imported materials—such as tires, steel, and electronics—inflate the cost of purchasing and maintaining motorcoaches. These expenses directly affect operators’ bottom lines and often lead to higher fares for travelers.

The cumulative effect of these costs makes it harder for operators to modernize fleets, invest in fuel-efficient vehicles, or offer competitive pricing.

It’s estimated that tariffs could significantly increase annual equipment costs, with downstream effects on affordability and accessibility.

Tour and charter bus companies support local economies, create jobs, and connect communities, yet current tax structures often don’t reflect their value. Inconsistent or outdated tax policies can discourage investment and hinder long-term planning.

ABA advocates for equitable tax treatment and expanded eligibility for transportation-related incentives to drive industry innovation, sustainability, and expansion.

Smart tax policy is essential for keeping motorcoach travel affordable, competitive, and resilient in a rapidly changing transportation landscape.

ABA sees the recent Montgomery ruling as both an opportunity and a warning. It reinforces the importance of safety, accountability, and transparency in carrier selection, helping professional bus operators stand out and support industry growth.

But ABA is also warning that expanded liability, nuclear verdicts, and rising insurance costs are putting severe pressure on private motorcoach companies. That is why ABA is advocating for reforms that protect the public, reward responsible operators, and improve transparency, while the ABA Foundation conducts a comprehensive insurance market review to guide future action.