Rep. Kinzinger Applauds Senate Action on Infrastructure

Press Release

This week, the Senate passed the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act by a vote of 69 to 30. With that, Congress now has the opportunity to move forward on a historic investment in our nation's infrastructure. Having long said Congress needs to address America's infrastructure, Congressman Adam Kinzinger (R-IL) released the following statement on the Senate's recent action:

"Bridges and roads are deteriorating across the State of Illinois where more than 2,000 bridges are structurally deficient or functionally obsolete, and over 70% of the roads are in poor condition. In Illinois, 7% of residents don't have adequate broadband infrastructure and 62% live in areas that have only one internet provider. As Co-Chair of the House Rural Broadband Caucus, I know we have made significant improvements in terms of connectivity across the country, but we cannot stop until universal access is achieved.

"For years I've been calling for substantial investments in infrastructure, and with the Senate action this week, we are one step closer to getting this effort across the finish line. This bipartisan package contains significant investment for roads, bridges, rail, seaports, airports, and inland waterways--core infrastructure most Americans agree are in need of improvement. The bill also includes a massive $65 billion investment into broadband and billions more in nuclear energy programs, both of which are uniquely important to the 16th District.

"It's time to make an investment in our nation that will pay dividends for future generations. Finding new and innovative ways to keep America moving is one of the most important roles of the federal government. I support the legislation passed by the Senate, as well as the bipartisan negotiations that made it possible. A strong national infrastructure is vital for our ability to compete globally, foster local and regional economic development, and create jobs. I look forward to passing this bill through the House so that we may begin rebuilding our core infrastructure needs."

Although the final text of the legislation as passed is still being finalized after adoption of amendments, the text of the underlying measure (Senate Amendment to H.R. 3684) can be found here. Of note, the Senate legislation contains language in Section 40323 that was sponsored in the House by Congressmen Kinzinger (R-IL) and Doyle (D-PA) to create a financial credit program at the Department of Energy to assist certain nuclear plants that are at risk of closure. The text of the House bill (H.R. 4960, the Preserving Existing Nuclear Energy Generation Act) can be found here.

Source