With a September 30th deadline for the latest federal transportation authorization extension looming, Senator Barbara Boxer has announced a $104 billion proposal that would maintain baseline funding and programs over the next two years. The bill would need $12 billion in additional funding to make it work.
Senator Boxer's proposal comes on the heels of the 6-year $230 billion measure announced by her House counterpart, Congressman John Mica that would consolidate and eliminate over 70 programs and cut funding 34%. Senator Boxer's proposal, labeled as "MAP-21" (Moving Ahead for Progress) would authorize Federal-aid highway programs for 2-years while maintaining current funding levels.
MAP-21 would continue to provide federal resources through core programs and funding formula's including mobility and enhancement programs. And, unlike the House proposal, it has bi-partisan support of several Senate members.
Now that both the lead members in the House and Senate have put forth their own proposals, it will be just a matter of time before serious discussions begin. Given the controversy surrounding Congressman Mica's bill, "MAP-21" might just be the most pragmatic and achievable idea.
Arnold Weinfeld is Director of Strategic Intiatives and Federal Affairs for the Michigan Municipal League. He can be reached at 517-908-0304 or by e-mail.
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