FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, March 12, 1998
Contact: Bill Adams
Telephone: (202) 366-5580
DOT 47-98
STATEMENT OF TRANSPORTATION SECRETARY RODNEY
SLATER
ON SENATE PASSAGE OF ISTEA REAUTHORIZATION
One year ago today, President Clinton proposed NEXTEA, our plan to reauthorize ISTEA’s vital transportation programs. In a strong, bipartisan vote this afternoon, the Senate passed an ISTEA reauthorization bill which reflects most of the high priorities the President set forth a year ago. Now the focus shifts to the House, where I hope it will act quickly to move a bill to the President’s desk that keeps America moving.
I commend the Senate for its swift action. In particular, I want to recognize the outstanding efforts of Senators Lott, Daschle, Baucus, Byrd, Chafee, D’Amato, Domenici, Gramm, Hollings, Lautenberg, McCain, Sarbanes, and Warner.
This bill maintains the original ISTEA legislation’s commitment to a balanced transportation system, continuing core highway programs while strengthening support for transit and intermodal projects.
This bill protects American’s health and safety. It includes a tough, new .08 BAC national standard for drunk driving and incentive programs for seat belt use. It expands proven strategies to protect public health and the environment, such as the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement Program.
The Senate’s bill helps to expand opportunity for all Americans. It maintains a strong disadvantaged business enterprise program, and creates a new program to help those making the transition from welfare rolls to payrolls get to where the jobs are.
The original ISTEA legislation expired last year, and Congress resuscitated it with a six-month extension. That extension is now on life support, and expires in just seven weeks. Its lapse would have serious consequences, shutting down safety programs and highway construction projects around the country. I hope the House will act swiftly to pass its ISTEA reauthorization bill, and that Congress will send a bill to the President to ensure that these crucial programs continue.
# # #