U.S. Sen. Kevin Cramer (R-ND) recently praised America’s Transportation Act (ATIA), submitting comments from North Dakota residents, officials, and organization to the Senate Record.
These comments included calls for everything from restoring long-term solvency to the Highway Trust Fund, to increased emphasis on land-use decisions, multi-modal transport alternatives, and electric vehicles.
“We received input and comments from city, county and state leaders all across North Dakota, expressing their desire for a highway bill reauthorization that works best for our state,” Cramer said. “Their feedback and priorities are very important to me. While not all of their requests were met, I want them to know their voices were heard.”
The legislation was advanced by the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) committee before the Senate’s August recess, leaving it in the hands of the Senate at large. However, Cramer is already thinking ahead to the House, who he warned to avoid procrastination.
“Our bill contains the largest funding commitment in highway authorization history,” Cramer said. “It grows the economy, enhances roads and bridges, eliminates burdensome regulation, invests in tribal lands, and maintains the current funding formula that ensures North Dakota receives steady funding and flexibility to prioritize our transportation needs.”