House Republicans Field Transportation Bill Favoring Oil and Gas

"U.S. House Republican leaders proposed a $260 billion transportation spending bill Tuesday, but its prospects are slim because of controversy over provisions to allow heavier trucks and to pay for new projects with expanded oil and gas production. The bill is important for all 50 states, including Louisiana, because it sets spending parameters for transportation financing critical to repairing and upgrading roadways. The bill also is one of the federal government's biggest job-generators.

But unlike a competing Senate version, which has bipartisan support and doesn't contain the controversial proposals to expand drilling and allow heavier trucks, the House bill was labeled a nonstarter. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood, a former GOP House member, said he doubts the House and Senate will agree on a transportation bill this year."

Bruce Alpert reports for the New Orleans Times-Picayune February 1, 2012.

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"Republicans Want to Throw Kids Under the Bus. Literally." (Mother Jones)