U.S. Rep. Karen Bass Statement on Passage of Senate Transportation Bill

U.S. Rep. Karen Bass

WASHINGTON - U.S. Rep. Karen Bass issued the following statement on the passage of the Senate's two-year, $109 billion transportation bill by a vote of 74 to 22:

"I applaud the Senate for their approval of a bipartisan transportation bill that I urge my colleagues in the House to act swiftly and also pass. The Senate's bill not only provides important resources to our nation, but also will positively impact critical projects in Los Angeles including the Crenshaw/LAX line and Expo light rail line. In fact, I've already offered an amendment to the House bill that mirrors the innovative financing included in the Senate legislation. Once enacted, we'll be another step closer to building a Leimert Park station on the Crenshaw/LAX line. Funding in this bill will also provide greater stability for LA Metro's existing projects and operations as well as grant opportunities for all of the transportation projects in our district.

"Democrats and Republicans in the Senate did the right thing and collaborated on a bipartisan, common sense bill that generates jobs, provides much needed repairs to our roads and bridges and makes key infrastructure investments. Unfortunately, last week House Republicans failed to compromise when similar legislation was brought to the House floor for vote.  Although transportation has long been a bipartisan initiative, with the current political climate brought on by Republicans, collaboration is no longer the ideal achievement. Today, Senate Members illustrated that that they are committed to the future of our country so I encourage Republicans in the House to do the same and not risk approving funding that creates jobs and improves our country to score a few irresponsible political points."

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