August 1, 2023

Big Updates for August

Hello all, and happy August.

First, we have some very exciting news! As you may have seen, both the Senate and the House recently released their respective Appropriations Bills and Report Language. Basically, how each house proposes the government should spend its money next year.

This year, however, the Reports in both houses are more exciting than usual – both include language calling for NHTSA to adopt the THOR 5F female dummy, and to test it equally in the driver’s seat. We are so proud to have worked alongside the offices of Senator Fischer and Congresswoman Pingree to get these requirements included, and we are so grateful for their leadership in the fight. Next up, both houses need to pass their respective bills, then the differences must be reconciled in conference. So while it’s not a done deal, this is the closest we’ve ever come. Check out our full press release here, and our TikTok explainer here.

Second, our petition is blowing up! Thanks to a few viral TikToks, we are at almost 6,500 signatures. If you haven’t already, please make sure to sign and share our petition with your family and friends. We are submitting it to Secretary Buttigieg, President Biden, and NHTSA Acting Administrator Ann Carlson on August 4th – one month before their report on the issue is due. Although we’ll keep collecting signatures, it’s crucial that we move forward with as much support as possible.

Third, our GoFundMe is live! We are working with renown D.C.-based projection artist Mark Bell on creating a projection on the Department of Transportation building, coinciding with the release of the aforementioned September 4th report. But, we need $5,000 to do it. We’re so close to the finish line – please consider donating soon and help us hold the DOT accountable!

Warmly,
Maria