The House has adopted, and the Senate is expected to concur in legislation that provides a long-term extension of federal transportation funds.
The measure comes through an amended version of the job creation bill and extends the authorization 10 months, until December 31st of this year. The measure also deposits $19.5 billion into the Highway Trust Fund, restores this year's highway funding to $42 billion from $30 billion and offers additional support for local projects for those who wish to use Build America bonds to finance construction.
As the issue of a longer term proposal is still up in the air, local officials from across Michigan, as well as League staff, will be traveling to DC in just a couple of weeks to meet with members of the Michigan Congressional delegation and key administration officials to press the need for a longer term solution to transportation funding.
Arnold Weinfeld covers federal issues for the Michigan Municipal League. He can be reached at 517-908-0304 or by e-mail.
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