House Approves Bill to Support Public Transportation
On June 26, the House voted 322-98 to pass the Saving Energy Through Public Transportation Act (H.R. 6052). Representatives James L. Oberstar (D-MN), Chairman of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, John L. Mica (R-FL), Ranking Member of the Committee, and Peter M. DeFazio (D-OR), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Highways and Transit, are the bill’s original co-sponsors. The bipartisan bill authorizes $1.7 billion in grants to public transportation agencies over fiscal 2008 and 2009. The measure is aimed at helping transit agencies contend with high gasoline prices that are driving up their operating costs while simultaneously increasing the demand for their services. The grants could be used to enable agencies to cut fares or expand their service. The bill is currently waiting on action in the Senate.

Reports of Interest
The National Surface Transportation and Revenue Study Commission  released its final report to Congress at the end of 2007.  Transportation for Tomorrow: Report of the National Surface Transportation Policy and Revenue Study Commission, prepared by a specially convened Commission, meets the charge given under Section 1909 of the Safe Accountable, Flexible and Efficient Transportation Equity Act – A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU).  The Report includes detailed recommendations for creating and sustaining a pre-eminent surface transportation system in the United States.  .A major purpose of the Commission’s study was to reinvigorate public debate regarding the future of the surface transportation system. 

Click here to read the full report.