Providing for Consideration of H.R. Investing in A New Vision for the Environment and Surface Transportation in America Act
Floor Speech
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Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the rule for H.R. 2, the Moving Forward Act.
America cannot remain competitive in the 21st century without modern, efficient infrastructure. Unfortunately, our roads, bridges, airports, and schools are falling behind.
H.R. 2 makes transformational investments in our country's infrastructure that will revitalize America's backbone while improving safety, reducing pollution, and getting Americans back to work.
To address our crumbling roads, the bill provides $300 billion for construction and maintenance of Federal highways and bridges. In Sacramento, my hometown, this will mean money for more projects like the new I Street Bridge that will help move people and goods safely and effectively.
H.R. 2 also provides provisions to reinforce our commitment to fighting the climate crisis. It provides more than $70 billion to expand renewable energy sources and strengthen clean energy infrastructure.
Additionally, the State of California and transportation authorities in my district will benefit from this bill's funding to increase walking, biking, and public transit options, all with the goal of cleaning up our air and limiting human contributions to climate change.
H.R. 2 also accelerates the use of zero emission vehicles and ensures we keep up with demand by installing necessary charging infrastructure across the country.
In addition, to keep Americans connected to the internet, this bill provides broadband payment support for low-income households and the recently unemployed. The COVID-19 pandemic has required our schools to fundamentally change the way they engage with students, and H.R. 2 ensures children have access to digital equipment and affordable broadband options for remote learning.
For America to remain the global center of innovation and growth, we must have 21st century infrastructure. This bill makes the forward- looking investments to help get us there.
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