Highway Bill Gets More Mileage in Congress
With a Sept. 30 deadline approaching, Congress has approved additional time to pass a long-term highway bill and avoid a lapse in federal surface transportation authority. The extension gives lawmakers more time to negotiate a five-year funding package before the end of the year.
Congress Approves Short-Term Extension
The measure passed by a 370-48 vote after lawmakers returned from the August recess. The House is expected to clear an extension of current authorities, allowing federal highway and transit programs to continue while negotiations on a broader bill proceed.
The current highway authorization supports funding for roads, bridges and transit. Without an extension, federal surface transportation authority would expire Sept. 30.
House Highway Bill Would Authorize $580 Billion
In May, the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee advanced the BUILD America 250 Act. The legislation would authorize approximately $580 billion over five years for surface transportation programs.
The bill is intended to address infrastructure needs, freight mobility and highway safety while strengthening the Highway Trust Fund. Portions of the legislation also were approved by the House Energy and Commerce Committee.
Lawmakers still must resolve differences over funding levels, program priorities and the long-term condition of the Highway Trust Fund before a five-year bill can advance.
Freight Industry Awaits Long-Term Funding Plan
A long-term highway bill would establish federal funding and policy priorities for the nation’s surface transportation system. For trucking, the legislation could affect highway construction, bridge improvements, freight corridors and safety programs.
The newly approved extension does not resolve those issues. Instead, it provides additional time for Congress to negotiate the next authorization while keeping existing federal transportation programs operating.
