Transportation
A safe, efficient and well-maintained infrastructure is not only critical to moving people and products, but it strengthens our nation’s economy. To keep our economy moving, I believe we must invest in and modernize the nation’s roads, bridges, airports and waterways. I remain committed to working with my colleagues in Congress to develop long-term transportation and infrastructure solutions that benefit all Americans.
One of the core functions of the federal government is to ensure that America has the infrastructure to facilitate interstate commerce and strengthen the nation’s competitive edge in the global economy. We must support a comprehensive transportation policy that integrates the needs of the federal government with that of state and local transportation agencies.
I agree with President Trump. It is time to address the decline of our nation’s transportation infrastructure, and I applaud the president for unveiling an optimistic plan to start the dialogue toward solutions. While I am concerned that the president’s plan is too reliant on state and local money, it is still an important step in the right direction. In the months ahead, I hope that bipartisan and bicameral discussion in Congress will take place so we can determine the best infrastructure solutions for the American people.
More on Transportation
With just a few short weeks left in the year, I am pleased to report that lawmakers on both sides of the aisle in both chambers of Congress are working together to find common ground on issues that matter to the American people. In fact, last week alone brought with it legislative victories that proved the federal government can function under regular order--even when it is divided.
The Oklahoman - Chris Casteel
Congress gave strong bipartisan approval Thursday to a $305 billion highway bill that Oklahoma lawmakers praised for providing certainty to state officials planning critical road and bridge projects.
The bill, which President Barack Obama is expected to sign soon, will set the nation's surface transportation policy for the next five years and provide a boost in funding for highways and mass transit.