Max Baucus: “after nearly 3 years and 6 temporary extensions, the Senate is on the verge of passing a monumental highway bill. We…”

“after nearly 3 years and 6 temporary extensions, the Senate is on the verge of passing a monumental highway bill. We will provide over $295 billion that will create thousands of jobs and keep our transportation infrastructure healthy. This legislation did not happen by itself--it took hard work and perseverance. First, I want to thank Senator Inhofe and Senator Jeffords, from the Environment and Public Works Committee, as well as Senator Bond, the chairman of the Subcommittee on Transportation and Infrastructure. They provided excellent leadership and I know their staff stayed up many a sleepless night. For Senator Inhofe's staff, I want to thank Ruth Van Mark, James O'Keeffe, Nathan Richmond, Angie Giancarlo, Andy Wheeler, Marty Hall, Greg Murrill, Alex Herrgott, Rudy Kapichak, John Shanahan, Frank Fannon and Michele Nellenbach. For Senator Jeffords' staff, I want to thank JC Sandberg, Ken Connolly, Alison Taylor, Jo-Ellen Darcy, Chris Miller, Margaret Wetherald, Mary Francis Repko, Malia Somerville, and Carolyn Dupree. And for Senator Bond's staff, I want to thank Ellen Stein, John Stoody, and Heideh Shamoradi. Senator Shelby and Senator Sarbanes also deserve recognition. They played an important role developing the transit title in this bill. I also want to thank my good friend Senator Grassley, the chairman of the Finance Committee, for his commitment to the transportation program.…”