Sen. Ernst Votes for Multi-Year Highway Bill

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) released the following statement after voting for passage of the Developing a Reliable and Innovative Vision for the Economy (DRIVE) Act, a six year highway transportation authorization measure:

“The DRIVE Act offers the kind of long-term and consensus solutions for our state and local communities to move forward on and implement transportation projects that enhance our nation’s roadways. Iowans and Americans across this country deserve stability and the certainty of safe and secure roads, bridges and other basic infrastructure.

“This legislation moves us in the right direction by cutting red tape and streamlining project delivery. Furthermore, it ensures Iowans are empowered to make decisions over where funding is needed most and safeguards the flexibility of our states to determine how infrastructure dollars are spent.” 

Following passage of the DRIVE Act, the Senate voted on a three month extension of the Highway Trust Fund. The short-term extension allows the House and Senate more time to pass a much needed long-term solution: 

“While I remain committed to a long-term solution, Congress has a responsibility to ensure our states have the funding they need; we cannot allow a lapse in funding for the Highway Trust Fund. Today, I voted for a temporary extension and I remain optimistic that Congress will come together and agree on a long-term fix as we chart a path forward.”

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