In a series of changes adopted by the U.S. House to their rules, it will now be easier for members of Congress to reduce the level of funding authorized for certain programs such as transportation.
Since approval of the TEA-21 act in 1998, whatever funding level was authorized was "guaranteed" to be appropriated at the levels specified in the legislation. The change in the rule will now allow a bill to be brought to the floor of the House with an amount less than that which was originally authorized.
A certain level of uncertainty could now exist as to whether or not whatever comes out of a long-term authorization will actuallly be appropriated. This could have a detrimental impact on the entire transportation industry. Some see this move as a way for the Congress to use such funds to offset the federal budget deficit.
The League will be working with members of the Michigan Congressional delegation and our partners in Washington to restore the funding guarantee.
Arnold Weinfeld covers federal issues for the Michigan Municipal League. He can be reached at 517-908-0304 or by e-mail.
8bcc550f-4d42-45fd-bbf1-57be48082ef7|0|.0
