NRF welcomes transportation reform, but concerned over funding

WASHINGTON— The National Retail Federation said it supports a transportation reauthorization proposal released today by House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman John Mica, R-Fla., but expressed concern over the measure’s funding levels.

“With a long-term, six-year funding period, provisions to streamline the permit process for new projects and a multi-modal focus, this bill is a significant step in the right direction,” NRF SVP government relations David French said. “Nonetheless, there is significant concern that by relying on the constraints of the current Highway Trust Fund, it does not provide sufficient funding to meet the existing and future needs of the U.S. infrastructure. We know this is the beginning of a legislative process, and look forward to working with lawmakers to ensure passage of a long-term reauthorization bill with appropriate funding levels and a funding mechanism that treats all transportation system users fairly.”