S.1733 - Highway Funding Transferability Improvement Act (119th Congress)
Summary
The Highway Funding Transferability Improvement Act aims to amend Title 23 of the United States Code, specifically Section 126(a), to increase the transferability of Federal-aid highway funds from 50% to 75%. This proposed change intends to provide states with greater flexibility in allocating federal highway funds to projects based on their specific needs and priorities. The bill was introduced in the Senate by Mr. Cramer and Ms. Alsobrooks and referred to the Committee on Environment and Public Works.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this act would allow states to transfer a larger portion of their Federal-aid highway funds between different programs. This could lead to a shift in funding priorities, potentially favoring certain types of highway projects over others, depending on state-level decisions. The increased flexibility could also streamline project implementation and reduce administrative burdens.
Potential Benefits
- Increased State Flexibility: States gain greater control over how they allocate federal highway funds, allowing them to address specific transportation needs.
- Potential for More Efficient Resource Allocation: Funds can be directed to projects with the highest priority and potential impact, as determined by state authorities.
- Streamlined Project Implementation: Reduced bureaucratic hurdles associated with fund transfers could accelerate project timelines.
- Economic Stimulus: Increased investment in highway projects can create jobs and stimulate economic activity in the construction and related industries.
- Improved Infrastructure: Strategic allocation of funds can lead to better-maintained and more efficient highway systems.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for Misallocation: States might prioritize projects based on political considerations rather than objective needs assessments.
- Reduced Funding for Certain Project Types: An increase in transferability could lead to a decrease in funding for specific types of highway projects if states choose to reallocate funds.
- Increased Complexity in Oversight: Monitoring and ensuring proper use of transferred funds could become more challenging for federal agencies.
- Uneven Distribution of Benefits: Some states might benefit more than others, depending on their existing infrastructure and funding priorities.
- Risk of Waste or Fraud: Increased flexibility could create opportunities for misuse or mismanagement of funds if proper safeguards are not in place.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the spirit of the US Constitution, particularly Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to regulate interstate commerce and provide for the general welfare. By increasing the transferability of highway funds, the bill aims to improve infrastructure, which facilitates interstate commerce. However, the Tenth Amendment reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states, and the increased flexibility afforded to states could be seen as respecting this principle.
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).