Transportation

Building and maintaining a strong transportation infrastructure is vital to the economic development of Kansas. As a Member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, I have fought for legislation that will help Kansans by providing better highways and increased job opportunities, while providing economic opportunities for the state.   

September 11 illustrated the need for America to increase the security in our airports and harbors. My position on the Transportation Committee allows me to take an active role in protecting our skies and securing our homeland. I have worked hard to balance the need to improve security while making sure that all Americans can still freely travel in a timely manner and that all goods can flow in and out of our ports without unwarranted delay. 

Kansas ranks fourth in the nation in total highway miles with over 134,500 miles of public roads and highways. In 2005, I helped pass legislation that would provide $383 million per year to Kansas to help build and maintain highways, roads, and bridges. This money will create and sustain thousand of jobs in Kansas while allowing the transport of our manufactured goods and agriculture commodities in a more timely and cost-effective system. 

Whether it's driving to school or hauling grain, Kansans rely upon the safety and efficiency of our state's transportation system. I will continue to work with my colleagues in Congress to find the resources to meet the needs of Kansas's infrastructure. 

For the 111th Congress, I will serve on the Subcommittee on Aviation and the Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines and Hazardous Materials.