January 16,2003

Joint Baucus-Grassley Statement Regarding Reauthorization of TEA-21

The U.S. Senate Finance Committee will play a large role in the reauthorization of the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA-21). The transportation bill, which authorizes highway, highway safety and transit programs, must address funding that flows to the Highway Trust Fund. The Senate Finance Committee, with jurisdiction over the Highway Trust Fund, will be proposing a number of options to strengthen the trust fund, without raising taxes.

In the coming months, the Senate Finance Committee will be working closely with the Environment and Public Works Committee to reauthorize a strong transportation bill that will increase funding to the Highway Trust Fund and provide states with the necessary dollars to ensure a safe and effective transportation system.