Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Chair of the Senate Western Caucus, has addressed a letter to Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX), Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, and Ranking Member Maria Cantwell (D-WA). In her letter, she detailed the top transportation priorities for the Western Caucus as Congress begins discussions on the next Surface Transportation Reauthorization Bill. This legislation forms the foundation for maintaining and enhancing infrastructure and transportation systems in the United States. The current authorization is due to expire on September 30, 2026.
Lummis emphasized that western states face unique geographic challenges. She stated, “The region’s vast landscapes and rugged terrain require transportation infrastructure solutions that prioritize rural connectivity, maintain and improve critical highways and roadways, and support multimodal networks capable of withstanding our unique challenges. We respectfully request that the reauthorization includes improved funding mechanisms that accurately reflect the needs of our rural communities.”
The letter aims to ensure that future federal transportation policy considers rural needs and supports robust funding approaches for areas with challenging terrain.
