Restoring Essential Public Access and Improving Resilient Infrastructure Act; REPAIR Infrastructure Act
Summary
H.R. 6671, the Restoring Essential Public Access and Improving Resilient Infrastructure Act (REPAIR Infrastructure Act), seeks to reauthorize and improve the reconnecting communities program. It allocates $3 billion annually from the Highway Trust Fund for fiscal years 2027-2031. This funding is split between planning grants ($750 million) and capital construction grants ($2.25 billion).
Expected Effects
The bill aims to improve community connectivity by removing barriers created by divisive roadway infrastructure. It prioritizes projects that promote affordable transportation options, community participation, and address historical economic and physical barriers. The Act also expands eligibility for various transportation programs to include REPAIR infrastructure projects.
Potential Benefits
- Increased funding for reconnecting communities and improving infrastructure resilience.
- Prioritization of projects that address historical inequities and benefit underserved communities.
- Promotion of affordable transportation options and community engagement in project planning.
- Support for community restoration, stabilization, and affordability measures.
- Expanded eligibility for REPAIR infrastructure projects under various transportation programs.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased government spending and debt, depending on how the Highway Trust Fund is managed.
- Risk of funds being misallocated or used for projects that do not effectively address community needs.
- Possible delays or bureaucratic hurdles in the grant application and approval process.
- Potential for unintended consequences from infrastructure projects, such as displacement of residents or negative environmental impacts.
- The bill does not address the source of funding beyond the Highway Trust Fund, potentially creating future funding uncertainties.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to regulate interstate commerce and provide for the general welfare. The focus on infrastructure and transportation improvements falls under this purview. The bill's emphasis on addressing historical inequities and promoting community development could be seen as furthering the goal of promoting the general welfare, as stated in the Preamble.
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).