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Connecting America’s Active Transportation System Act

3/9/2023, 5:47 PM

Summary of Bill HR 2991

Bill 117 HR 2991, also known as the Connecting America's Active Transportation System Act, aims to improve and expand the infrastructure for active transportation in the United States. Active transportation includes walking, biking, and other forms of non-motorized transportation.

The bill proposes to allocate funding for the development of safe and accessible pathways for pedestrians and cyclists, as well as the enhancement of existing infrastructure to better accommodate these modes of transportation. This includes the construction of sidewalks, bike lanes, and multi-use trails, as well as the installation of signage and other safety measures.

Additionally, the bill seeks to promote active transportation as a means of reducing traffic congestion, improving public health, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. It also aims to increase access to transportation options for individuals who may not have access to a car or public transportation. Overall, the Connecting America's Active Transportation System Act is focused on creating a more sustainable and inclusive transportation system that prioritizes the needs of pedestrians and cyclists.

Congressional Summary of HR 2991

Connecting America's Active Transportation System Act

This bill directs the Department of Transportation (DOT) to carry out an active transportation investment program to provide competitive grants to state, local, and regional government entities, and Indian tribes to construct projects that connect walking and bicycling infrastructure within and between communities, metropolitan regions, or states.

The bill sets forth various limitations on the use of funds by DOT, including that it must

  • obligate at least 30% of funds to projects that connect people with public transportation, businesses, workplaces, schools, residences, recreation areas, and other community activity centers;
  • set aside at least $3 million to provide planning grants for eligible entities; and
  • set aside at least $2 million to cover the costs of administration, research, technical assistance, communications, and training activities under the program.

The federal share of grants must not exceed 80% of the total project cost. However, DOT may increase the federal share to 100% for disadvantaged communities with a poverty rate of over 40%.

Current Status of Bill HR 2991

Bill HR 2991 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since May 4, 2021. Bill HR 2991 was introduced during Congress 117 and was introduced to the House on May 4, 2021.  Bill HR 2991's most recent activity was Referred to the Subcommittee on Highways and Transit. as of May 5, 2021

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 2991

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
1
Republican Sponsors
0
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
38
Democrat Cosponsors
38
Republican Cosponsors
0
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 2991

Primary Policy Focus

Transportation and Public Works

Potential Impact Areas

- Administrative law and regulatory procedures
- Community life and organization
- Competitiveness, trade promotion, trade deficits
- Congressional oversight
- Department of Transportation
- Government trust funds
- Parks, recreation areas, trails
- Pedestrians and bicycling
- Poverty and welfare assistance
- Public contracts and procurement
- Public transit
- Racial and ethnic relations
- Regional and metropolitan planning
- Transportation programs funding
- Transportation safety and security

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 2991

Connecting America’s Active Transportation System Act
To direct the Secretary of Transportation to carry out an active transportation investment program to make grants to eligible applicants to build safe and connected options for bicycles and walkers within and between communities, and for other purposes.
Connecting America’s Active Transportation System Act

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