Proposed MAP-21 Reauthorization Act text unveiled

Written by Mischa Wanek-Libman, editor

The U.S. Senate Environment and Public Works Committee (EPW) released its proposed bill text for the MAP-21 Reauthorization Act (S. 2322). The six-year legislation plans to maintain highway program funds at current levels plus inflation.

 

According to the EPW’s press release, “The legislation builds on the success of the comprehensive reforms and performance-based approach to transportation investment in Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century (MAP-21). It provides long-term funding, giving state and local governments the certainty and stability they need to improve and develop our nation’s transportation infrastructure. These investments will create new jobs, provide a boost to our nation’s economy and keep us competitive in the global marketplace.”

MAP-21 expires on September 30 and the Highway Trust Fund is projected to run out of funds this summer.

Highlights of the bill’s summary include:

  • Long-term funding certainty
  • Greater transparency on the use of federal funds
  • Increased funding for existing core transportation formula programs
  • Targeted funds for projects of high importance to a community
  • Fully-funded freight and goods movement program
  • Provides new funds to projects of national or regional significance through a competitive grant program
  • Improves on the Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (TIFIA) program
  • Expanded flexibility for state and local governments to promote cost-effective project delivery.

The bill will be marked up in the EPW Committee on Thursday, May 15th at 9:30 am.

Click here for the bill text and a bill summary.

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