The Senate Environment and Public Works Committee unanimously passed new bipartisan transportation legislation out of committee on July 30. Overall, America’s Transportation Infrastructure Act of 2019 (S. 2302) authorizes $287 billion over five years for surface transportation programs, included within that is $250 million for a new wildlife crossings pilot program. In addition, the bill adds new funding eligibilities for the construction of wildlife crossing structures within formula and competitive programs and prioritizes the research and development of animal detection systems to reduce the number of wildlife-vehicle collisions.

“America’s Transportation Infrastructure Act will make a historic investment in Wyoming’s roads and bridges,” said bill sponsor and EPW Committee Chairman John Barrasso (R-WY). “Since his election, President Trump has called on Congress to fix the nation’s infrastructure. This bipartisan legislation answers the president’s call. The legislation … will help reduce the number of accidents that involve animals by improving wildlife crossings.”