Washington, D.C. (February 12, 2014) – Terry O’Sullivan, General President of LIUNA – the Laborers’ International Union of North America –made the following statement on the U.S. Senate Environment and Public Works Committee hearing on reauthorization of the MAP-21 Highway Bill:

“Today’s hearing is another positive step toward needed discussion and action on securing and strengthening the federal role in maintaining and modernizing our nation’s roads, bridges and transit systems. For too long the duct-tape approach by Congress to transportation infrastructure has destabilized the construction industry, stalled projects, cost jobs and slowed our economy. We need members of both parties to move forward in passing a long-term Highway Bill before our Highway Trust Fund rolls off the fiscal cliff, which it is on track to do in just a few months.

“A long-term investment in America’s transportation system will save taxpayers -- every dollar we invest now could save $14 down the road. Every year we wait to make this investment costs each driver over $320 a year on wasted fuel and repairs due to the deterioration. Adjusting user fees for inflation will help bridge the gap between current investment and what our country needs.

“It is up to Congress to answer the question: are we America the crumbling or America the great? Along with a broad coalition, we continue to call on Congress to help ensure our nation’s greatness and get the job done. The working men and women of LIUNA are ready, willing and able to do their jobs and are eager for Congress to continue moving forward with theirs.”

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The half-million members of LIUNA – the Laborers’ International Union of North America – are on the forefront of the construction industry, a powerhouse of workers who are proud to build America. For the latest news, check out our media kit here.