Bus Company Keeps Rolling Despite Shutdown Order

The Double Happyness bus company is making the U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) very unhappy.

The department ordered the bus company off the road last month, saying it was an "imminent hazard" to public safety.  But now the feds say the company is continuing to sell tickets, so it has issued a cease and desist order.

The Huntingdon Valley, Pa., company is one of the many "Chinatown" bus companies that operate up and down the East Coast, offering cheap fares and frequent service.  Many pick up and discharge passengers at curbside, rather than using expensive terminals.

The imminent hazard order followed an extensive review of the company's operations, which found multiple hours-of-service, vehicle maintenance, and controlled substance and alcohol testing violations. 

"Double Happyness" is a Chinese ornamental design often used on luxury goods in China.  It is also associated with Chinese New Year and wedding celebrations. 

“Safety is our highest priority,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood.  “During this busy holiday travel season, we will remain vigilant in our efforts to protect bus passengers and all motorists from unsafe bus companies.” 

Double Happyness Travel provided service between New York City and Albany, N.Y.; Baltimore, Md.; and Wilmington, Del.

“FMCSA will continue to do everything within its current legal authority to remove unsafe bus operators like this one from our roadways,” said FMCSA Administrator Anne S. Ferro.