Highway Funding Transferability Improvement Act
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 managing their highway funding allocations. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives by Ms. Hageman and Ms. Titus.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill, if enacted, would be to grant states more autonomy in deciding how to allocate federal highway funds. States could shift a larger portion of their allocated funds between different highway projects or programs. This could lead to more efficient use of funds in some states, while potentially creating funding shortfalls in others.
Potential Benefits
- Increased state flexibility in allocating highway funds.
- Potential for more efficient use of funds based on local needs.
- Possible acceleration of high-priority projects within states.
- May allow states to address specific infrastructure challenges more effectively.
- Could stimulate local economies by enabling quicker project implementation.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for funding disparities between states.
- Risk of neglecting certain types of highway projects.
- Possible reduction in oversight and accountability.
- May lead to less investment in long-term infrastructure needs.
- Could exacerbate existing infrastructure inequalities.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the spirit of federalism, granting states greater control over their infrastructure spending. Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution grants Congress the power to regulate interstate commerce and provide for the general welfare, which implicitly includes the power to fund infrastructure projects. The amendment to Title 23 falls within these enumerated powers.
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).