H.R.3572 - To make projects in certain counties eligible for funding under the rural surface transportation grant program, and for other purposes. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3572 aims to amend Title 23 of the United States Code, specifically Section 173, to modify the rural surface transportation grant program. The bill introduces definitions for 'covered county' and 'farm-to-market road,' focusing on counties with significant agricultural production. It also sets aside 10% of grant funds for projects on farm-to-market roads within these covered counties.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely increase funding for transportation projects in agriculturally productive rural counties. This could lead to improved infrastructure and better connectivity for these areas. The changes also require the Secretary of Transportation, in consultation with the Secretary of Agriculture, to create and update a list of eligible 'covered counties'.
Potential Benefits
- Improved infrastructure in rural agricultural areas.
- Increased funding for farm-to-market roads.
- Support for agricultural communities through better transportation.
- Potential for economic growth in covered counties.
- Annual updates to the list of eligible counties ensure responsiveness to changing economic conditions.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for unequal distribution of transportation funds, favoring specific counties.
- Increased administrative burden due to the creation and maintenance of a list of covered counties.
- Possible inflation of project costs due to dedicated funding.
- May not address broader transportation needs outside of farm-to-market roads.
- The definition of 'covered county' might exclude some deserving areas.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) by regulating infrastructure related to agricultural commerce. It also falls under Congress's power to provide for the general welfare through infrastructure spending. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).