Pete Aguilar: “Today, Congress was faced with a 22-day extension for the reauthorization of the highway trust fund. We have been in…”

“Today, Congress was faced with a 22-day extension for the reauthorization of the highway trust fund. We have been in this situation before, and every time Republican leadership has chosen to kick the can down the road. Mr. Speaker, it has to end here. This needs to be the last time. If Congress is going to take 22 days, then we need to use the time to come together and focus on a long-term solution, one that is measured in years, not months. Our roads, rails, and bridges are the foundation of our economy. They transport our goods, get working moms and dads to and from work, and they connect our towns and cities to States and to the global economy. We cannot afford to gamble with our transportation and infrastructure, which Inland Empire families in my area and millions throughout the country rely on every day. If we are able to do this extension, then let's stop governing by crisis. Short-term Band-Aid solutions prevent cities and towns from being able to plan and accommodate for future projects. Today, I ask my colleagues to come together and take these 22 days to put through a responsible, long-term solution so Inland Empire families and throughout this Nation have safe and sustainable infrastructure to support their growing homes and businesses. ____________________”