Veasey Applauds Long-Term Transportation Bill & Export-Import Bank Reauthorization

WASHINGTON, D.C. –Congressman Marc Veasey, TX-33, released the following statement in favor of the Conference Report on H.R. 22, Fixing America's Surface Transportation Act, and the long-term reauthorization of the Export-Import Bank:

"Today, the House passed a bipartisan, long-term transportation bill that responsibly funds our nation's infrastructure for years to come. Despite Republican obstruction and a series of temporary extensions, today's bill reflects an improvement over the initial House-passed measure. Along with boosting our economy by creating jobs and facilitating the reliable transportation of goods, the five-year agreement will improve our country's crumbling roads and bridges, fund our transit systems, and expand its rail transportation network."

"For the DFW Metroplex, the long-term funding will ensure that the Texas Department of Transportation can continue to work on projects like the Horseshoe Project near downtown Dallas and Tex Rail. Additionally, it will ensure residents can continue to utilize dependable public transit services like the Fort Worth T and Dallas Area Rapid Transit, which serve thousands in North Texas."

"I'm proud that the final conference report included my amendment that will allow demand transit providers that offer service exclusively to elderly and disabled populations, like Handitran in Arlington, to use Section 5307 Urbanized Area Transit Formula funds for operating costs. Seniors and disabled persons nationwide can continue to access reliable transportation services that connect them with the resources they need to live independent lives."

"The conference report also included a measure to reauthorize the Export-Import Bank for four years. For eight decades, the Ex-Im bank has helped level the playing field for American workers and businesses. Today's vote will ensure that Texas exporters have access to the resources they need to remain competitive in the global economy. "

"This past week proves that bipartisanship is possible and I hope this spirit of cooperation continues as we work on next week's passage of the omnibus bill. I look forward to working with my colleagues across the aisle on behalf of the American people."