Political Quotes

“We clearly looked at our amendment to make certain it would be operative irrespective of the Senate and, indeed, congressional action on such a proposal as to repeal the 4.3-cent gas tax. So, again, Mr. President, I join my colleagues, Senator Byrd, Senator Gramm, and Senator Baucus, to increase the authorization levels in ISTEA II using funds generated by the 4.3 cents per gallon gas tax. Along with the support of many of my colleagues, we have waged strong efforts this year for higher funding levels for our nation's surface transportation programs. I initiated that effort and my amendments to spend additional revenues from the highway trust fund earlier this year failed by 1 vote. Later, during the debate on the conference on the budget resolution, 85 Senators urged--by letter--the conferees to raise the allocation to the highway program so that a portion of the 4.3 cents Federal gas tax could be spent. That effort received no response. Once again, with the amendment we offer today, we have another opportunity to ensure that additional funding is made available to modernize and expand our nations surface transportation system. I continue to believe that investments in our transportation system-- highways, rail and transit--are a wise and essential investment for the American taxpayer. Almost every economic effort by the U.S. private sector is met by competition worldwide. Mr. President, for every dollar invested in transportation, there is an economic return of $2.60.”