Steven Kuykendall: “I rise in support of H.R. 4475, the fiscal year 2001 Department of Transportation appropriations bill. This legislation…”

“I rise in support of H.R. 4475, the fiscal year 2001 Department of Transportation appropriations bill. This legislation contains funding for a number of important programs, including several in my own district. These projects are designed to reduce reliance on single-passenger vehicles. By encouraging alternatives to the car, such as mass transit and other commuter opportunities, we reduce air emissions and conserve other important renewable resources. We enhance the quality of life in communities by reducing congestion and preserving air quality. Both are admirable objectives. The base bill also contains a provision that preserves the current corporate average fuel economy [CAFE] standards. An amendment to strip this provision out of the bill may be offered, and, if approved, will permit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to impose stricter standards. While I strongly support the need to reduce air emissions and promote fuel efficiency, a restrictive approach mandated by the government, unresponsive to consumer demands and production realities, is not the wisest approach.”