AED's HTF Stop Gap Statement expreses relief and concern.
Press Release Summary:
Regarding final passage of legislation to patch Highway Trust Fund (HTF) (H.R. 5021), which keeps federal surface transportation programs operating through May 2015, statement released by AED President and CEO Brian McGuire expressed relief and concern. McGuire, claiming Congress' procrastination brought highway program and the construction industry "to the brink of disaster," said that "this isn't a moment to celebrate" and expressed hope in renewed effort towards "long-term solvency."
Original Press Release:
AED: Passage of Highway Stop-Gap No Reason to Celebrate
WASHINGTON – Associated Equipment Distributors (AED) President & CEO Brian McGuire released the following statement regarding final passage of legislation to patch the Highway Trust Fund (HTF) (H.R. 5021) and keep federal surface transportation programs operating through May 2015.
"While we're relieved that H.R. 5021 is on its way to the president's desk, this isn't a moment to celebrate," McGuire said. "By waiting until the last minute to solve a problem we've known for years was coming, Congress brought the highway program and the construction industry to the brink of disaster. We hope this exercise has underscored to everyone on Capitol Hill that the Highway Trust Fund is in dire shape and needs additional revenues, be it from a gas tax increase or some other source. Providing the infrastructure that allows the economy to function is a core obligation of federal government. Now it's up to Congress to fulfill that obligation and put the HTF back on the road to long-term solvency."
AED is an international trade association representing companies involved in the distribution, rental, and support of equipment used in construction, mining, energy, forestry, power generation, agriculture, and industrial applications. More information is available at www.aednet.org.
AED Government Affairs Office
121 North Henry Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
Telephone: 703.739.9513
Facsimile: 703.739.9488
Electronic Mail: aeddc@aednet.org
