(a) A common carrier providing transportation subject to the jurisdiction of the Interstate Commerce Commission under subchapter I, II, or III of chapter 105 of this title may transport passengers without charge to provide relief during general emergencies.

(b)(1) The Commission may authorize a common carrier providing transportation or service subject to its jurisdiction under chapter 105 of this title to give reduced rates for service and transportation of property to or from an area in the United States to provide relief during emergencies. When the Commission takes action under this subsection, it must—

(A) define the area of the United States in which the reduced rates will apply;

(B) specify the period during which the reduced rates are to be in effect; and

(2) The Commission may specify those persons entitled to reduced rates by reference to those persons designated as being in need of relief by the United States Government or by a State government authorized to assist in providing relief during the emergency. The Commission may act under this subsection without regard to subchapter II of chapter 103 of this title and subchapter II of chapter 5 of title 5.