In the face of constant pressure to raise taxes on California’s motorists, Senate Republicans instead advocated that transportation dollars be dedicated to fixing our roads, highways, and bridges. Reforms can be accomplished through a series of legislative solutions proposed by Senate Republicans earlier this summer.
Senator Anthony Cannella (R-Ceres) serves as Vice Chair of the Transportation and Development Committee and issued the following statement:
“Today’s committee hearing was a great first step in finding consensus on a comprehensive fix to our state’s transportation system. We all understand what it will take to not only repair our existing roads, but build for the future. While this will not be an easy process, we must begin by ensuring to taxpayers that the funds we are currently bringing in through vehicle weight fees and the cap-and-trade program along with any new funds are spent on transportation. As our transportation system is the backbone of the state’s economy, I look forward to working with my fellow legislators to come to a consensus to rebuild our infrastructure so that we do not continue to fall behind the nation and the world.”
Senate Republican Leader Jean Fuller (R-Bakersfield) issued the following response to today’s hearing:
“Fixing California’s roads is a priority for Senate Republicans. We can go a long way toward addressing California’s infrastructure problems if we use the money for what it was originally intended for transportation projects,” said Sen. Fuller. “The Senate Republicans’ plan includes significant new investments for road and highway projects and ensures that transportation dollars are spent wisely.”
A second Transportation Conference Committee hearing will be held at the Ontario City Hall on Wednesday, October 21st.
To learn more about the package of transportation bills introduced by Senate Republicans, click here (pdf) or see graphic below.
Source: California State Senate Republican Caucus
