The Research and Special Programs Administration (RSPA) was established by act of Oct. 24, 1992 (106 Stat. 3310). This subagency of the Department of Transportation focused on improving hazardous materials and pipeline safety; coordinates and advances transportation research, technology and education activities to promote innovative transportation solutions; and manages the Department's transportation-related emergency response and recovery responsibilities. RSPA also provides planning and training grants to States and Indian tribes to increase hazardous materials emergency preparedness. RSPA was abolished by act of Nov. 30, 2004 (118 Stat. 2424-2426) and certain duties and powers were transferred to both the Pipeline Hazardous Materials Safety Administration and the Administrator of the Research and Innovative Technology Administration, Department of Transportation.
A component of Transportation Department.