Rashida Tlaib: “I would like to thank Chairman DeFazio, for his leadership on this bill, and for the leadership of Speaker Pelosi…”

“I would like to thank Chairman DeFazio, for his leadership on this bill, and for the leadership of Speaker Pelosi, Chairwoman Waters, Chairman Scott, and Chairman Pallone for fighting to make sure we make historic investments in our country's crumbling infrastructure. I rise today in support of amendments No. 41 and No. 42. The first amendment, which I have proposed with my colleagues Reps. Barragan, Ocasio-Cortez, and Brownley, prioritizes the public health of vulnerable communities by adding detailed requirements to H.R. 2's Climate Resilient Transportation Infrastructure Study. For too long, the building of roads, highways, and other federal infrastructure has come at the expense of communities experiencing environmental injustice. Our amendment would prioritize areas like Michigan's 13 District, home to the most polluted zip code in our state, and other communities that include people of color, migrants, and low-income workers. It would center our communities are fighting against climate change, pollution, and environmental racism. My second amendment ensures proper oversight and transparency of Community Climate Innovation Grants by requiring the Department of Transportation to work with the Environmental Protection Agency and the public. Parents in my district should not live in fear of their children playing / outside due to toxic air, and my amendment will ensure accountability as we seek to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions.…”