Charleston Leader

In a recent op-ed in the Washington Times, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) discussed her goals for the upcoming Surface Transportation Reauthorization Bill. As the Chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee, Capito emphasized three primary principles to guide the bill's development.

"When it comes to my vision for the upcoming surface transportation reauthorization bill, I have three key principles that I believe will jumpstart this conversation. By focusing on these fundamental outcomes, I'm confident that we can work towards a legislative solution that will deliver results for the American people," Chairman Capito writes.

The Senator's first principle aims to enhance the safety and reliability of the nation's transportation network through strategic investments. Capito suggests optimizing federal funding by prioritizing safe and reliable movement and addressing overlap in federal programs.

Her second principle emphasizes reforming and modernizing federal programs and policies to improve efficiency. Capito notes that current federal requirements increase project costs and delays, advocating for improvements in procedures and grants.

The third principle highlights the diverse transportation needs across different states. Capito advocates for avoiding top-down mandates and providing flexibility to address distinct state requirements, ensuring federal policies support state-specific needs.

According to Capito, "The vision I've laid out is broad, but that's intentional. It will take the collaboration of my Senate colleagues and many others as we move toward completing the bill before September 2026."

Capito, who also serves on other Senate Committees, is committed to advancing this transportation initiative, stressing its significance to the U.S. economy and mobility.