Supporting a Long-Term Solution for the Highway Trust Fund

Congresswoman Janice Hahn
Congressional Record: 114th Congress
July 14, 2015

(Ms. HAHN asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute.)

Ms. HAHN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to highlight America's infrastructure crisis.

Almost 30 percent of our Nation's major roadways, and 50 percent in California, are in poor condition, meaning they must be rebuilt, not just patched up.

Drivers are now paying a hidden pothole tax, the extra cost to maintain a car because of bad roads. In California, the average driver pays $760 because of poor roads. People and goods are slowed down by congestion.

In just 10 legislative days, our highway trust fund expires. Congress must pass a long-term surface transportation bill to ensure that the United States has the best infrastructure.

In May, this Congress kicked the can down the road and passed a short-term bill. It seems we are likely to do that again. This is not a responsible way to govern.

We should invest in our transportation system to be globally competitive and to move these goods efficiently. Drivers want less time stuck in traffic and more time at home with their families. Let's invest in America's future and pass a long-term surface transportation bill.