SAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA — Yesterday, the Minnesota House approved a new Transportation budget.
“Senate Republicans blocked revenue to fund transportation projects, which would have delivered sustainable, dedicated and long-term funding to build a modern transportation system that people and employers are asking for,” said Rep. Frank Hornstein (DFL – Minneapolis), Chair of the House Transportation Finance Committee.
“This bill maintains the status quo in a time when transportation investments are desperately needed. Let’s not lose sight of the fact that transportation is about people. It’s about these workers and their families. It’s about Minnesotans getting to their jobs, school, and families safely and efficiently on modern roads and transit systems built for the 21st century. We have more work to do for the people of Minnesota.”
Republicans blocked any proposals to raise new constitutionally dedicated funding for our roads and bridges, and the needed funding for transit. As a result, Minnesota’s transportation infrastructure will continue to deteriorate. The American Society of Civil Engineers rated Minnesota’s roads as, “D+” on their most recent infrastructure report card. Bridges received a “C” and transit was awarded a “C-.”
House Democrats fought for permanent, sustainable, on-going, and dedicated funding for transportation that meets the needs of a growing state. Strong investments in transit remain a priority for the House DFL, despite Republican’s firm opposition to any increased revenue for transportation.
The bill can be found here and the spreadsheet can be found here.