Congress Encouraged to Pass Long-Term Reauthorization of Federal Surface Transportation Programs
Today the National Governors Association (NGA) released the following statement on the five-year federal surface transportation reauthorization, titled America’s Transportation Infrastructure Act, after the bipartisan agreement between Senate Environment and Public Works Chairman John Barrasso and Ranking Member Tom Carper:
“On behalf of the nation’s governors, we applaud the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee for taking this first step in advancing a bipartisan five-year reauthorization of federal surface transportation programs. The bill’s emphasis on formula funding, safety and resiliency comes at a critical time for states. The looming insolvency of the federal Highway Trust Fund (HTF) and expiration of federal highway and transit laws and programs on Sept. 30, 2020 creates uncertainty for states and threatens jobs across the country.
“We hope the committee’s work encourages other congressional committees with jurisdiction to take action, creating momentum in Congress to pass a long-term reauthorization that resolves the HTF shortfall without delay. Strengthening our nation’s infrastructure is vital for governors to advance economic growth and global competitiveness, create jobs, and improve overall quality of life. Federal HTF reimbursements to states cover the federal share of contracted work already completed. Delaying congressional action on a long-term reauthorization and allowing the HTF to become exhausted will not change the fact that states must pay those bills.”
In April, NGA released its Principles for National Infrastructure Investment, which spell out the bipartisan priorities of governors. Underscoring the importance of the state-federal partnership to build and maintain infrastructure, governors of both parties stand ready to work with Congress to help pass a long-term reauthorization of federal surface transportation laws and programs.
