Which government agency is responsible for establishing the nation’s overall transportation policies?

The Department of Transportation (DOT) is the government agency tasked with establishing the nation’s overall transportation policies. This includes overseeing and coordinating the development of transportation systems that ensure the safety, efficiency, and effectiveness of all modes of transportation, including highways, railways, air travel, and maritime activities.

The role of the DOT encompasses a broad range of responsibilities, such as regulating and enhancing travel safety, promoting innovative transportation initiatives, and facilitating the movement of goods and people across the country. This agency is essential for ensuring that transportation infrastructure is maintained and operates smoothly, which is vital for national economic stability and mobility.

In contrast, while other agencies listed may play critical roles in their respective domains—such as the Department of Homeland Security focusing on security against threats, the FBI enforcing federal laws, and the Civilian Emergency Agency potentially addressing emergency response—they do not hold the primary responsibility for shaping transportation policies on a national scale. The DOT's specific focus on transportation makes it the correct choice in this context.