House Passes Multi-Year Surface Transportation Legislation

Press Release

The House of Representatives passed the first long-term highway and transit bill in a decade today. The six-year transportation bill passed with a strong bipartisan vote of 363-64. Appointed members of the House and Senate now go to Conference to reconcile differences between the two chamber's positions and produce a final legislative measure.

"The passage to improve and reform our highway and transit programs by investing in our nation's infrastructure is a tremendous step in the right direction for the country and the 18th District. The provisions to increase flexibility for states to prioritize bridge rehabilitation and replacements, coupled with eliminating red tape that slows down infrastructure improvements will serve as a catalyst for job growth and opportunities," Rep. Darin LaHood mentioned. "There are some great provisions in this bill that will specifically help business of all sizes in Central Illinois, by providing tools to build or repair our District's infrastructure. Our nation's transportation network is the backbone of our economy. Road users and road builders will benefit under this legislation and I look forward to the final conference report."

The last time a transportation bill longer than two years reached the president's desk was in 2005. This was one of the first key legislative items considered by the House of Representatives under the new leadership of Speaker Paul Ryan.

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