Indiana Task Force Proposes Infrastructure Investment

Indiana lawmakers are pushing for increased investment in transportation infrastructure to address significant road and bridge shortfalls, as highlighted by the Funding Indiana’s Roads for a Stronger, Safer Tomorrow Task Force (FIRSST). Co-Chair Rep. Jeff Thompson emphasized that neglecting current infrastructure equates to future debt burdens for taxpayers. The task force's report concluded that improvements are not only necessary but should be funded by those who utilize the network. Potential funding mechanisms discussed include increasing transportation fees, implementing road usage fees, and tolling more roads. Meanwhile, in Washington, congressional leaders are close to a deal on a three-month stopgap spending bill to prevent a government shutdown, which includes substantial disaster relief funding and economic assistance for farmers. Concerns persist regarding the impact of this temporary funding measure on local private shipyards and their supporting companies.