Dear KTFC Members & Friends:
To the surprise of many, the U.S. Senate approved and sent to the House a bipartisan, trillion-dollar physical infrastructure bill. The vote was 69-30, with 19 Republicans joining 50 Democrats in support of the measure.
In recent weeks, many doubted the Senate would produce such a measure. In fact, it still needs the blessing of the House, as well as President Biden. Some House members have threatened to vote against the bill, saying that the trillion-dollar price tag is too much, while others threaten to oppose it if a separate measure that would spend more does not come to pass.
Despite the uncertainty, the bipartisan bill is a welcome development in many circles. Pennsylvania would receive an additional $370 million in the first year, with increases of $50 million per year for the following four years. Additionally, a special bridge fund would provide an additional $220 million per year for five years.
The House and Senate are now in recess, although the House currently plans to return later this month.
Be of Good Cheer,
TRANSPORTATION ISSUE UPDATE
- Here’s what the Senate-approved infrastructure bill would mean for Pennsylvania.
- PA Congressman Meuser proclaimed the infrastructure bill “good, but not great.”
- Republican legislators pronounced the Transportation Revenue Options Commission funding recommendations “dead on arrival.”
- PennDOT launched its annual survey about drivers’ safety habits.