Transportation Task Force Chair Shomari C. Figures Urges Support of Surface Transportation Reauthorization Bill
Today, New Democrat Coalition Transportation Task Force Chair Shomari C. Figures (AL-02), Vice Ranking Member of the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee’s Subcommittee on Highways and Transit, released a statement after the Committee advanced a bipartisan, five-year surface transportation reauthorization bill through markup. The legislation is now poised to come to the floor ahead of the September 30th deadline to reauthorize infrastructure funding.
“New Dems are fierce advocates for the quick and innovative development of the infrastructure we need to power a 21st-century economy and connect every American from coast to coast.
“This legislation, the product of bipartisan compromise and a shared commitment to strengthening the foundations of America, makes historic investments in revitalizing our roads, bridges, and railways. It incorporates key New Dem initiatives championed by our Members that will help streamline the permitting and zoning process, shore up financing for essential projects, and introduce innovative infrastructure programs to boost safety and resiliency.
“I urge my House colleagues to quickly advance this legislation and for the Senate to follow suit.”
Last year, New Dems led by Figures and Vice Chair for Policy Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) sent Chairman Sam Graves and Ranking Member Rick Larsen a letter outlining New Dems’ priorities for surface transportation reauthorization legislation. Several of these priorities were included in the bill, including provisions to:
- Encourage housing development near transit facilities;
- Reduce suicides near rail crossings;
- Fund bridge and transit grant programs; and
- Protect roadside workers and prevent work zone deaths.
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