Perlmutter Supports Extension For Key CO Transportation Program

Statement

Today, U.S. Rep. Ed Perlmutter (CO-07) broke ranks with a majority of Democrats and voted to send the transportation authorization bill to conference committee to work out differences with an earlier passed Senate bill. HR 4348 ensures critical transit, highway and transportation safety funding is maintained through Sept. 30.

"I support the bipartisan Senate solution which provides long-term transportation funding , however House Republicans refused to allow a vote on that plan. We all have to cooperate and find solutions to ensure the safety of the traveling public and maintenance of our transportation infrastructure. It's good for our security and it's good for job growth. That's why I supported a plan to send this bill to conference committee with the Senate. The bill is important for Colorado and keeps transit funding at current levels through the end of the fiscal year. House Republicans need to stop playing political games and negotiate in good faith with the Senate on their bipartisan compromise plan to address the important infrastructure needs of our country and put more people to work. We need certainty in our country, and short term extensions don't allow for proper planning and completion of these projects," said Perlmutter.

"While I think this bill is the wrong vehicle for authorizing the Keystone Pipeline, I am committed to energy independence for America and our closest allies and trading partners like Canada. Energy independence can be achieved by developing a diverse domestic portfolio that includes fossil fuels and renewable energy. Investments in domestic energy infrastructure like the Keystone XL pipeline are positive steps to the health and security of Americans."

Source