Agricultural and Rural Road Improvement Program Act
Summary
The Agricultural and Rural Road Improvement Program Act aims to improve infrastructure in rural areas by amending Title 23 of the United States Code. It establishes a program focused on enhancing roads and bridges vital for agricultural activities and rural economies. The bill allocates funds to states for projects that improve access to farms, reduce weight limitations on bridges, and enhance the safety and efficiency of rural roads.
Expected Effects
The act will likely lead to improved transportation infrastructure in rural areas, benefiting farmers and businesses reliant on efficient transportation networks. It could also stimulate economic activity in these regions by making it easier to transport agricultural products. The changes to apportionment formulas will shift funding priorities, potentially impacting other transportation programs.
Potential Benefits
- Improved access to farms and agricultural facilities.
- Reduced weight limitations on rural bridges.
- Enhanced safety and efficiency of rural roads.
- Stimulation of economic activity in rural areas.
- Increased infrastructure investment in underserved communities.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential shift in funding away from other transportation priorities.
- The 90% federal cost share may strain federal resources.
- Limited scope, focusing solely on agricultural and rural roads.
- Possible delays in project implementation due to bureaucratic processes.
- Potential for disproportionate benefits to specific regions or agricultural sectors.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's provision for Congress to provide for the general welfare (Article I, Section 8). Specifically, the bill promotes interstate commerce by improving infrastructure that supports the agricultural sector. The allocation of funds to states is consistent with the principles of federalism, allowing states to address their specific needs within the framework of the federal program.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).