House passes Historic Infrastructure & Investment Jobs Act

After months of negotiation, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the $1.2 trillion Infrastructure and Investment Jos Act with bi-partisan support.

The Infrastructure & Investment Jobs Act (IIJA) passed the Senate in August, with Leader McConnell working across the aisle to vote in support of this historic investment and garner support within his party. A vote on the bill was delayed for several months as Democrats worked to gain support within the party to have the legislation separated from the massive $1.85 trillion Build Back Better plan.  GLI championed separating the long-overdue infrastructure package from the uncontrolled deficit spending of the social spending bill.

Late Friday night, Speaker Pelosi announced that the House would take a standalone vote. The bill passed the House in a 228 to 206 vote and now awaits President Biden’s signature.

GLI President and CEO, Sarah Davasher-Wisdom, issued the following statement:

 “GLI applauds the U.S. House of Representatives for passing the largest investment in our nation’s infrastructure in nearly a century. This funding will provide critical improvements and advancements in Greater Louisville’s roads, bridges, and connectivity that will ensure we can continue growing our regional economy and attracting top companies. We commend Leader McConnell and Congressman Yarmuth for voting in favor of the bipartisan legislation. We will be advocating at the state level to ensure allocation of the funds maximizes the economic potential of our region.”

The much-needed investment will bring more than $5 billion in long-term funding to Kentucky, including the following:

• $4.6 billion for federal-aid highway apportioned programs
• $438 million for bridge replacement and repairs
• $391 million to improve public transportation options
• $204 million for airport infrastructure development
• Investments in cybersecurity protections, broadband expansion, electric vehicle charging stations and more.

Read GLI’s op-ed on why this investment is critical to Louisville’s economic growth.