Fiscal 2025 Bills Top Congress’ End-of-Year Session

Congress is prioritizing the approval of fiscal 2025 funding bills as they reconvene after the elections, aiming to avoid a partial government shutdown. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer emphasizes the importance of bipartisanship in reaching agreements. A short-term funding resolution signed by President Biden expires on December 20, which is when budget authority for the Department of Transportation and other agencies will run out. Lawmakers are advocating for emergency aid, notably $3 billion for rebuilding the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, which collapsed earlier this year, and additional funds for areas affected by natural disasters. The Senate Appropriations Committee has proposed a significant transportation budget, allocating funds to various agencies, including nearly $65 billion for road safety and infrastructure. The House version provides slightly lesser amounts but still includes $200 million for expanding truck parking nationwide. The American Trucking Associations stress the need for safe resting places for drivers after shifts, urging Congress to support the parking project funding included in the appropriations bill. Experts in transportation highlight the critical need for these funding measures considering the ongoing challenges in infrastructure capacities and safety concerns, especially for commercial drivers. The issues of safe truck parking and timely maintenance of critical infrastructure are compounded by natural disasters, making early funding approval essential to support affected communities and mitigate further disruptions in freight mobility.