Skip to main content

Norton Calls Infrastructure Framework A First Step, Wants Human Infrastructure in Final Bill

June 25, 2021

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), chair of the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure's Subcommittee on Highways and Transit, said that the infrastructure framework announced by President Biden yesterday is an indication of bipartisan progress on the President's infrastructure agenda but falls far short in total funding and on climate change. However, she said that even this framework is unlikely to pass unless it meets Speaker Nancy Pelosi's ultimatum that there will be no House vote on the physical infrastructure bill until the Senate also passes the President's human infrastructure bill, including childcare and nutrition.

Norton met with President Biden and Transportation Secretary Buttigieg to discuss infrastructure in March, shortly after the President took office.

"This first step encourages me to continue to press for the specific funding I got in the INVEST in America Act, including for Amtrak, which would be the largest investment in rail since Amtrak was created, and other forms of public transportation, which are indispensable for D.C. residents to get to work and school. Although the framework has a long way to go, I am encouraged by President Biden's long experience in getting legislation accomplished."