U.S. Congressman Brad Schneider (IL-10) voted for the Highway and Transportation Funding Act, which extends federal surface transportation programs and ensures that the Highway Trust Fund remains solvent through May 2015.
"If we want to be economically competitive in the 21st century, it's essential that we invest in America's infrastructure and transportation systems," Schneider said. "Right now, Illinois's infrastructure receives a dismal grade of "C+" from the American Society of Civil Engineers and too many of our roads, bridges and transit systems are in desperate need of repair. Congress needs a long-term vision for rebuilding our infrastructure. While this bill provides much-needed funding for our highway and transit programs, Congress must continue working toward a fully financed transportation plan that restores America's crumbling infrastructure and makes smart investments in the future that are fundamental to helping our economy and communities grow and prosper."
Rep. Schneider, a member of the House Small Business Committee, advocated for long-term transportation reauthorization in outlining his legislative priorities before the House Budget Committee.