Rail Improvement Design and Expansion for Faster Advanced State Transportation Act; RIDE FAST Act
Summary
H.R. 5677, the RIDE FAST Act, proposes an amendment to the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, specifically targeting the extension of grant authorizations for intercity passenger rail projects. The bill aims to extend the availability of these grants under section 24911 of title 49, United States Code, through fiscal year 2032. This extension would provide continued federal support for the development and enhancement of passenger rail infrastructure.
The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives by Mr. Costa, Mr. Moulton, and Mr. Beyer and was referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
The primary impact of this bill is to ensure the continued funding and development of intercity passenger rail projects, potentially leading to improved transportation options and economic benefits.
Expected Effects
The RIDE FAST Act's passage would extend the authorization for grants dedicated to intercity passenger rail projects through 2032. This extension would allow for the continuation of existing projects and the initiation of new ones, fostering improvements in rail infrastructure.
This could lead to increased ridership, reduced travel times, and enhanced connectivity between cities. The amendment directly impacts Section 22106(a) of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, updating the end date from 2026 to 2032.
Potential Benefits
- Continued funding for intercity passenger rail projects.
- Potential for improved transportation infrastructure and reduced travel times.
- Job creation in construction and related industries.
- Enhanced connectivity between urban centers.
- Support for economic development along rail corridors.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased government spending and potential budget deficits.
- Risk of inefficient allocation of funds or project mismanagement.
- Potential displacement of communities or environmental impacts due to rail expansion.
- Dependence on federal funding for long-term rail projects.
- Opportunity cost, as funds could be allocated to other infrastructure priorities.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) of the U.S. Constitution, which grants Congress the power to regulate interstate commerce. Investing in and improving intercity passenger rail facilitates the movement of people and goods across state lines, falling under the purview of interstate commerce regulation.
Additionally, the bill's appropriation of funds aligns with Congress's power to collect taxes and provide for the general welfare (Article I, Section 8, Clause 1). The allocation of funds for infrastructure projects is a recognized aspect of promoting the general welfare.
However, the extent of federal involvement in local transportation projects could raise questions about the balance of power between the federal government and the states, although the states are not compelled to accept the grants.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).