Washington, DC - December 3, 2015 - U.S. Representative Kathleen Rice released the following statement today after the House of Representatives passed the Conference Report on H.R. 22, the Fixing America's Surface Transportation Act:

“Today the House passed the Conference Report on H.R. 22, the Fixing America's Surface Transportation Act, with overwhelming bipartisan support. This bill is good for our country, our economy and our workforce. It will finally provide the long-term transportation funding that we need to create good jobs for millions of Americans by rebuilding our crumbling infrastructure on Long Island and across the country. H.R. 22 also maintains the High Density States program, a critical funding source for New York and other Northeast states with unique transportation needs.

“I am also extremely pleased that the final bill included my amendment to improve safety standards for new drivers. The amendment will incentivize states to adopt strict safety requirements for Graduated Driver’s License programs, including an explicit ban on cell phone use for drivers under 18, reducing the deadly risk of distracted driving.

“Finally, H.R. 22 will reauthorize the Export-Import Bank’s charter until 2019, providing critical financial support to thousands of small businesses across the country, including 10 in New York’s fourth congressional district. I’m proud to have contributed to and voted for this legislation, and I’m eager to see it pass in the Senate and sent to the President for his signature.”