Washington, D.C. - Congressman Dave Loebsack today called on House Republican leaders to bring a long-term highway bill up for a vote before adjourning for the August recess. Currently, the House has only passed a short-term extension of the bill and, according to recent news reports, Republican leaders have said the House will not consider long-term legislation before leaving for its annual August recess. The Senate is debating its own long-term extension this week. On Friday, funding for highway projects nationwide will run out if an extension is not agreed to.
"It is beyond irresponsible for Republican leaders in the House to go on recess without passing a long-term bill that invests in our nation's infrastructure. A long-term transportation bill is necessary to address urgent transportation and infrastructure needs, create jobs for Iowans and is central to economic development across the country. It will also ensure businesses and farmers can transport their goods more efficiently to compete in the 21st Century economy. Another short-term, shortsighted extension will only cause more uncertainty, keeping state and local governments from being able to effectively plan for future projects. Congress should remain in session until a long-term plan is agreed to."
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