DES MOINES, Iowa – The Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau (GTSB) announces $11 Million in federal grant funds to be distributed statewide from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for the 2024 federal fiscal year.

“The GTSB is pleased to allocate these funds to support our traffic safety partners across Iowa,” says Bureau Chief Brett Tjepkes. “Over the past five years, almost 1,700 lives have been lost on Iowa roads: that’s too many. Lack of seat belt use, impaired driving, distracted driving, speeding, and other risky driving behaviors continue to wreak havoc. These funds will be used to increase public awareness, educate, collect data, train, and enforce. The goal is to improve safety for all those sharing the road.”

Money will be distributed to law enforcement partners for equipment, education, and enforcement projects. “These partnerships are crucial,” says GTSB Law Enforcement Liaison Randy Kunert. “Enforcing Iowa’s traffic laws is the strongest countermeasure to deter risky driving behavior. It’s vital these agencies have necessary resources to make traffic stops.”

The GTSB is also distributing funds to support non-law enforcement traffic safety initiatives. New partnerships include the Iowa Bicycle Coalition, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), the Iowa Restaurant Association, and Lutheran Services in Iowa (LSI). LSI will use GTSB funds to help educate, build confidence, and promote safe driving habits among refugees.

“Having a driver’s license gives refugees independence and increases their employment opportunities,” says Vinh Nguyen, Education and Workforce Manager at Lutheran Services in Iowa.

Every year, traffic safety advocates, law enforcement, and other state agencies across Iowa seek funding through grant applications offered by the GTSB. Applicants who meet the required data driven criteria and highway safety standards are awarded grant funds to support GTSB’s mission to reduce death and injury on Iowa’s roadways.