Approximately every six years, Congress reauthorizes U.S. surface transportation legislation, providing an opportunity to make changes and updates that affect millions of Americans. Reason Foundation has identified eight programs or policies that need to be changed in the next reauthorization.
Double the $15 Billion Cap on Private Activity Bonds (PABs) for P3 Projects
Arbitrary cap should be increased to allow states to stretch resources further
By Robert Poole
Recognize All HOT/BRT Lanes as “Fixed Guideways” for Transit Funding
All HOT lanes should receive equal treatment from FTA
By Robert Poole
Grant user-friendly tolling flexibility for Interstate highway reconstruction
States need a new option for reconstructing Interstate highways
By Robert Poole
Simplify Long-range Planning Requirements for Regional Transportation Plans
Long-range transportation planning mandates include unnecessary tasks that stretch far beyond transportation
By David T. Hartgen
Simplify Conformity Regulations for Regional Transportation Plans
Current rules create huge administrative burden without improving environment
By David T. Hartgen
Eliminate Surface Transportation Funding for Non-federal Modes
Fund can no longer support diversions to transit, active transportation and weed removal
By Baruch Feigenbaum
Add Taxpayer Protections to FRA’s RRIF Loan Program
Federal Railroad Administration program ripe for abuse without needed protections
By Robert Poole
Require Metro Planning Agencies to Consider Congestion in Transportation Plans
Taxpayers should get to judge whether transportation plans focus enough on congestion reduction
By Robert Poole
Eliminate the TIGER Program
Executive branch earmarking has focused on politics not policy
By Baruch Feigenbaum