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Rep. Knowles Unveils Transportation Bill Funded With Liquor Privatization Profits
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Legislation-- House Bill 2020-- to designate all money generated from the sale of the state liquor stores to the improvement of Pennsylvania's roads and bridges was announced Thursday by Rep. Jerry Knowles (R-Schuylkill).
The legislation, which would create the Infrastructure Future Fund Act, was explained today in downtown Jim Thorpe.
In May 2010, the Pennsylvania Transportation Advisory Committee reported that there are more than 5,600 structurally deficient bridges and 7,000 miles of roads in poor condition throughout Pennsylvania. Additionally, two state and two federal commissions have determined that the state would need an additional $3.5 billion per year to meet its highway, bridge and transit needs.
"My legislation is not a cure-all solution for the problems facing the state's infrastructure, but it is a start," says Rep. Knowles. "This one-time infusion of funds would have an impact on future generations of the motoring public and all citizens of the Commonwealth."
Joining Rep. Knowles at the press conference was Rep. Doyle Heffley (R-Carbon) and Carbon County Commissioner Wayne Nothstein.
"Folks driving around Carbon County on a daily basis can see and feel the poor condition of our roadways. However, more of a concern than a bumpy ride is the significant public safety threat we face if any of our roads or bridges fail," said Rep. Heffley. "State government is searching for money that can help cover the cost for needed repairs and upgrades, and if the state liquor stores are privatized, there will a significant one-time pot of cash that can be used to jumpstart the state's long list of transportation projects. This type of out-of-the-box thinking is what we need in order to tackle a looming public safety issue."
House Bill 2020 was introduced this week and is currently awaiting the consideration of the House Transportation Committee. State liquor store privatization and improving Pennsylvania's infrastructure, roads and bridges are two of the most talked about legislative issues the House will be working on this fall.
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10/17/2011 |
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