Emergency Commuter Relief Act of 1973 (S. 386). The vote is on the passage of the bill to authorize $800 million for fiscal 1974-75 for grants to states and localities for urban mass transit operating subsidies. The Federal Aid Highway Act of 1973 provided funds for construction of new mass transit systems, but nothing for the costs of operating them. Without operating subsidies, many bus and rail systems could not set fares low enough to encourage the heavy public use that is essential to conserve fuel and reduce air pollution. The President opposed the amendment. September 10, 1973. Adopted 53-33. Yes is the correct vote.