Chamber Lauds Passage of Transportation Bill

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The United States Chamber of Commerce and the Americans for Transportation Mobility (ATM) coalition today applauded House passage of the conference report for H.R. 3, The Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users. This legislation will begin to address the nation's growing highway and public transportation needs.

"Businesses and consumers have paid billions of dollars in taxes for a reliable and efficient transportation system," said Thomas J. Donohue, Chamber President and CEO and Chairman of ATM. "This bill paves the way for better roads and keeping America's economy rolling."

The Chamber pointed out that as more people and freight use the nation's transportation system, greater infrastructure investment is critical to ensuring future economic growth, international competitiveness, national security, and better quality of life for America's traveling public. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, every $1 billion invested in highway and public transportation infrastructure creates 47,500 jobs.

"This measure will provide much-needed resources to relieve congestion and improve safety on our nation's roads and highways," Donohue added. "We are pleased with this step by Congress to fund America's growing transportation needs."

Americans for Transportation Mobility is a broad coalition of more than 400 trade, state, and local associations; government officials; and labor unions working to build a safer and more efficient transportation system.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world's largest business federation representing more than three million businesses and organizations of every size, sector, and region.

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www.a-t-m.org