The current planning and environmental review process is extremely thorough. The question we face is how do we make it work better and faster, while not cutting out any necessary analysis.
During the consideration of TEA-21, Congress passed several provisions directing the executive branch to streamline the process of environmental review of transportation projects. Unfortunately, the proposed rules by U.S. DoT go in the opposite direction and would delay rather than speed up project delivery. It seems that this is yet another example of the executive branch defying the intent of Congress.
I see that the State of Wyoming has joined the testimony of Jim Currie, head of the Montana Department of Transportation. I look forward to hearing his testimony.
The bottom line is that TEA-21 provides with the opportunity to streamline and simplify the project delivery process while maintaining substantive environmental protections. We should take advantage of it. That will ensure that American taxpayers will get more for their fuel tax dollars.
Again, Mr. Chairman, thank you for holding this hearing.