On the recordNovember 4, 2015
For the sake of my constituents and the many communities with crumbling roads and bridges around this Nation, I am happy that we finally have a bipartisan transportation bill to work with. For the record, I still believe that we need a full, 6-year plan. Today, I have an amendment that will modify section 3021 of the Surface Transportation Reauthorization and Reform Act. My amendment will examine the ability of seniors and people with disabilities to access public transportation and require the council to report to Congress on their findings with recommendations. One-half of Americans 65 and older do not have access to public transportation. Those in rural areas and small towns are particularly affected because transportation options are limited. Seniors continue to drive as long as possible because they are unaware or do not believe they have alternative means of transportation. Seniors limit their driving or stop driving altogether because of functional disabilities. I urge my colleagues to support the Lawrence amendment when it comes to the floor. Seniors and people with disabilities need to maintain their independence. ____________________
