[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 40 (Wednesday, April 1, 1998)]
[House]
[Pages H1857-H1858]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        SUPPORT THE BESTEA BILL

  (Mrs. KELLY asked and was given permission to address the House for 1

[[Page H1858]]

minute and to revise and extend her remarks.)
  Mrs. KELLY. Mr. Speaker, later today this body will consider the 
BESTEA bill. This bill provides the necessary resources to improve 
America's aging and decrepit infrastructure.
  While today we will hear discussions of roads and transit and funding 
formulas, I want to point out a lesser-known feature of this important 
bill, environmental enhancements. BESTEA significantly increases 
funding for the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality program, for the 
transportation enhancements program, and for the recreational trails 
program. The measure creates new transit enhancement programs and 
encourages alternative modes of transportation such as biking. In fact, 
BESTEA even works to improve compliance with the Clean Air Act.
  Mr. Speaker, this bill proves we can balance America's economic and 
environmental needs. For the environment, for highway safety, for job 
growth and for infrastructure improvements, I am a strong supporter of 
this bill; and I hope my colleagues will join me with their support.

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