Press Releases
Ranking Members Davis & Crawford Statements from Hearing on Freight TransportationOpening remarks, as prepared, of Subcommittee on Highways and Transit Ranking Member Rodney Davis (R-IL) and Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials Ranking Member Rick Crawford (R-AR) from today’s joint subcommittee hearing entitled, “Where’s My Stuff? Examining the Economic, Environmental, and Societal Impacts of Freight Transportation”: Subcommittee on Highways and Transit Ranking Member Rodney Davis (R-IL): The strength of our freight system, and Illinois’ position as the Nation’s premier freight hub, relies on a dependable system of highways, roads, and bridges. This is important because nearly every load of freight will be transported on a truck at some point in its journey. Over the coming decades, demand for freight moved by truck is expected to increase significantly. Coupled with the dynamic nature of supply chains and changing consumer demands, we must focus not only on improving existing infrastructure, but also planning for the system of the future. I look forward to hearing from our witnesses about how Congress can improve freight programs and increase the efficiency and productivity our freight transportation system. Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials Ranking Member Rick Crawford (R-AR): Farmers and businesses across my state depend on our Nation’s freight railroads to safely transport their goods throughout the country and the world. Important to Arkansas are our short line railroads, who most often provide first and last mile service for farmers, manufacturers, and other industries. I am proud to support H.R. 510, the BRACE Act, which would permanently extend the tax credit for short line railroad track maintenance, thereby increasing private investment in important rail transportation infrastructure. As total freight demand grows, the critical investments made by the railroads – in both their people and in their infrastructure – help ensure a safe and efficient transport system for our goods. This investment helps spur economic activity, drive innovation, and make operations safer and more efficient. In turn, the rail network can handle increased freight demand and help relieve congestion on our roads. I look forward to hearing about freight programs in the FAST Act and how Congress can improve the efficient flow of goods. Click here for more information, including witness testimony. |