Charleston Leader

U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito, who chairs the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, recently led a hearing in Washington, D.C., to assess the implementation of surface transportation policies and funding under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). The hearing aimed to evaluate both the successes and challenges faced since the law's enactment on November 15, 2021.

In her opening statement, Chairman Capito emphasized the importance of examining these issues as the committee prepares for the next Surface Transportation Reauthorization Bill. She noted that current provisions are set to expire in September 2026. Capito highlighted "the reliability of formula funding for states" and stressed "the need for further implementation of project delivery provisions."

Capito remarked on the critical timing of this review: “This hearing comes at a critical time, I think, as we approach the expiration of those provisions at the end of 2026, in September. We want to continue what is working, but discontinue what isn’t working.”

She acknowledged that while stakeholders have been fulfilling their promises under IIJA, they have encountered some difficulties. Capito appreciated having stakeholders present to provide updates on their efforts in delivering transportation projects across various communities.

On a positive note, Capito mentioned that federal highway formula programs received about 90% of IIJA funding. She stated that this has provided states with certainty and flexibility to address transportation needs nationwide. In West Virginia specifically, she said formula funding is helping upgrade roads and bridges.

Capito also pointed out some challenges affecting IIJA implementation: “Inflation is certainly a contributing factor," she said. It has increased project costs despite overall funding increases provided by IIJA.

Additionally, she criticized new discretionary grant programs established by IIJA for being slow in achieving congressional intent: “These programs require significant time and money from eligible applicants,” she explained.

Capito expressed concerns over executive overreach during prior administrations affecting IIJA's execution: “Ultimately it took more than a year for the prior Administration to correct their misstep with [a] December 16th memo,” referring to specific policies seen as advancing priorities not included within IIJA itself.

The senator concluded by expressing her anticipation for testimony from witnesses regarding real-world impacts stemming from implementing IIJA policies: “This review...will inform this Committee’s bipartisan work on upcoming surface transportation reauthorization bill.”