The U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation that keeps decision-making authority at the local level for Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs) and repeals regulations.
The repeal of the rule “Metropolitan Planning Organization Coordination and Planning Area Reform” means MPOs and states will have more flexibility when it comes to planning and making investments.
Metropolitan Planning Organization Coordination and Planning Area Reform was implemented by the Obama administration and established regulations that were stricter than those required by law. Over four years, the regulations would cost MPOs $340 million, according to the Department of Transportation.
The new bill, S. 496, passed the House by a vote of 417 to 3. It is identical to H.R. 1346, which was advanced by the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.
“They [MPOs] bridge the gap between planning at the state and local levels to focus on regional priorities and deliver projects,” U.S. Rep. Dan Lipinski (D-IL), co-sponsor of the bill, said. “The DOT’s rule would stifle the voice of local elected officials, make public participation difficult, and cause serious planning challenges. For example, in my Illinois district, the rule would give Indiana and Wisconsin more power on decisions that directly impact the daily commutes of Chicago area residents.”
The bill moves to President Donald Trump for his signature.