David M. Bonelli
Partner
During his tenure at NHTSA, David was responsible for representing the agency on oversight, regulatory, budget, and strategic transportation legal and policy matters. He developed regulations for highway and motor vehicle safety programs, including the Car Allowance Rebate System (CARS), commonly known as the “Cash for Clunkers” program. He also served as counsel on a detail to the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, where he assisted in drafting and negotiating surface transportation safety and infrastructure legislation, such as the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21).
Related Practices
Related Industries
Experience
Experience
Government Experience
- Senior attorney, Office of Chief Counsel, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
- Counsel (detail), Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, U.S. Senate
- Honors attorney, U.S. Department of Transportation
Insights
Insights
Credentials
Credentials
Education
- J.D. summa cum laude Mitchell Hamline School of Law 2004
- Arnold M. Lyons Award, 2004 (earned the highest academic achievement)
- Notes and comments editor and associate, Hamline Law Review
- B.A. English and Psychology Georgetown University 1997
Bar Admissions
- District of Columbia
- Maryland
Recognition
Recognition
- U.S. Department of Transportation, Secretary’s Awards
- Gold Medal, 2016
- Partnering for Excellence Award, 2005 – 2006, 2009, 2012 – 2014
- Legal 500, Transport – Rail and Road: Litigation and Regulation, 2024