1997 Assembly Joint Resolution 106
ENROLLED JOINT RESOLUTION
Relating to: federal spending on transportation.
Whereas, the future of federal spending for highways and mass transit programs is uncertain because Congress has not passed multiyear legislation to reauthorize the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act; and
Whereas, for years Wisconsin has not received a fair return on the federal gas taxes that it sends to Washington, D.C.; and
Whereas, the inequitable return of federal dollars to Wisconsin has meant a loss of more than $624,000,000 in highway and transit aid since 1955; and
Whereas, Wisconsin deserves a dollar-for-dollar rate of return on federal Highway Trust Fund contributions; and
Whereas, nearly one-fourth of Wisconsin's transportation budget is supported by federal funds; and
Whereas, to get a better return of federal dollars to the state, Congress must increase the total amount of money spent on transportation; and
Whereas, the current 18.4 cents federal fuel tax provides sufficient revenue to increase transportation investments without raising taxes or taking money away from other programs; and
Whereas, Highway Trust Fund revenues are user fees meant to support improvements to the nation's highway and transit systems; and
Whereas, significant needs exist throughout Wisconsin for investments in both highways and transit; and
Whereas, investments in the transportation infrastructure benefit the national economy; and
Whereas, transportation investments create jobs, support the competitive edge of Wisconsin businesses and keep state roads safe and efficient; and
Whereas, each $1 billion in federal aid highway dollars supports 42,000 jobs; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the assembly, the senate concurring, That the members of the Wisconsin legislature urge Congress to increase the total amount of federal spending for transportation to provide a stable, long-term surface transportation program that ensures Wisconsin its fair share of federal transportation dollars; and, be it further
Resolved, That the assembly chief clerk shall provide copies of this joint resolution to each member of this state's congressional delegation.
