Federal transportation funding suspended

Just when you thought you'd seen it all from our legislative friends in Washington, Sen. Jim Bunning of Kentucky thought now would be a good time to prove a point and hold up funding for various programs, including transportation.  The good Senator ran a one-man filibuster late last week, placing a hold on two different bills that would have extended various authorizations.  What it means is that the federal transportation program has lapsed and beginning this week, until action is finally taken, payments to states and locals for projects will not be able to be reimbursed.  Also, about 4,000 USDOT employees will need to be furloughed.  While Congress will no doubt move with some speed to address the situation, it will not be easy as the reauthorizations are tied in with other expiring programs in the Jobs bill.  Arnold Weinfeld covers federal issues for the Michigan Municipal League. He can be reached at 517-908-0304 or by e-mail