Statements

Washington, DC, Jun 29 - Today, Congressman Harold "Hal" Rogers (KY-05) released the following statement upon passage of the conference agreement to HR 4348, the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act Conference Report (MAP-21), in the House of Representatives:

"Today, I joined with many of my colleagues to pass a two-year extension of our nation’s surface transportation programs. While not perfect, MAP-21 extends authority for construction and maintenance on our nation’s roads, bridges, and tunnels, while creating thousands of U.S. jobs.

"The agreement wisely consolidates or eliminates dozens of federal programs and streamlines environmental reviews to more quickly begin road, bridge, and transit construction projects. Most notably, MAP-21 funding encourages states like Kentucky to complete the Appalachian Development Highway System which stretches across our region’s mountains and valleys. By cutting away the federal red tape, this measure makes it more cost effective for the Commonwealth to complete highways in southern and eastern Kentucky, and creates a pipeline for economic growth and activity in our region. Finally, I’m pleased to see that MAP-21 allocates nearly $1.3 billion by 2014 to address Kentucky roads, prevents an increase in federal student loan interest rates and extends the National Flood Insurance Program for five years."

Rogers has served Kentucky’s 5th Congressional District since 1981. With a focus on economic development, job creation, fighting illegal drugs and preserving southern and eastern Kentucky’s natural treasures, he has a reputation for listening to his constituents and fighting for the region he represents. For more information, visit halrogers.house.gov

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