Introduction of the Improving Access to Jobs Act

Congressman Jesús G. "Chuy" García
Congressional Record, 116th Congress
Extension of Remarks
7 April 2020

  Mr. GARCIA of Illinois. Madam Speaker, I rise to introduce the 
Improving Access to Jobs Act along with my colleagues Congresswoman 
Ayanna Pressley and Congressman Mark Takano.
  Americans are stuck in congestion, on crumbling roadways and transit 
systems, and are too often forced to travel further and further for 
jobs because our system fails to provide safe and convenient choices 
other than a car trip.
  The Improving Access to Jobs Act requires that `safe and convenient 
access to employment' is an added condition for States' minimum 
standards for public roads--for both new construction and roadway 
improvement projects.
  States and metropolitan planning organizations will assess how the 
transportation system connects people to jobs by auto, transit, bike, 
and pedestrian investments, and ensures new investments do not degrade 
transit, bike, and pedestrian access.
  The Improving Access to Jobs Act will also adjust the definition of 
access to incorporate a measurement of travel times, travel stress for 
active travel (bike and pedestrian), and cost for low-income travelers.
  I am glad that the Improving Access to Jobs Act is endorsed by 
Transportation for America (T4A), Sierra Club, National Resources 
Defense Council (NRDC), National Association of City Transportation 
Officials (NACTO), Environmental Law and Policy Center (ELPC), Rails-
to-Trails Conservancy.
  The Improving Access to Jobs Act will reconnect our communities, 
enabling people to take shorter, more convenient trips, reducing 
congestion and emissions, and improving access to jobs for all.
  I urge this body to swiftly pass this legislation.