Surface Transportation Reauthorization Moves in Two House Panels

A proposed five-year reauthorization of surface transportation programs cleared two key House committees by Friday morning, but it remains unclear whether a final package can reach the House floor before the Sept. 30 expiration of the 2021 bipartisan infrastructure law.

The proposed $580 billion legislation covering highway, transit, maritime, and rail programs cleared the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Friday morning. Controversial amendments to boost rail safety won approval despite industry opposition.

Another amendment approved by the transportation panel would give rideshare companies liability protections from crimes committed by drivers. It would also preempt state laws.

Legislation to reauthorize safety programs ...