Industry Coalition Pushes Congress on Multiyear Highway Funding Bill

Key Details Transportation stakeholders are rallying behind a major highway reauthorization bill ahead of a September deadline. Business groups, trucking interests, transit agencies, and state transportation departments are urging Congress to vote on a comprehensive surface transportation measure, emphasizing that a multiyear bill is essential for long-term planning and infrastructure investment. Why It Matters The Highway Trust Fund continues to face a critical shortfall, operating on fuel tax revenue that hasn't kept pace with infrastructure maintenance needs. Without congressional action, states and carriers will struggle with unpredictable funding for highway projects and system improvements. What's Being Proposed AASHTO President Russell McMurry is championing a "back to basics" approach focused on predictable federal funding, improved safety outcomes, and faster project delivery. The strategy also emphasizes federal support for technology integration and supply chain connectivity to help states modernize infrastructure development. Next Steps House lawmakers are expected to begin work on the highway bill as soon as this month, with congressional leaders targeting a comprehensive solution by fall. Industry priorities center on sustainable funding mechanisms, safety enhancements, innovation support, and streamlined project deployment.