Hoyer Statement on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Bill

WASHINGTON, DC - House Democratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement today in opposition to the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development appropriations bill that passed the House this evening:

“While the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development appropriations bill considered by the House today includes a number of positive provisions, I could not support it in its current form because it guts federal support for a number of important transit and housing programs.  This bill would undermine tenant-based Section 8 rental assistance and cut housing opportunities for Americans living with HIV/AIDS.  Moreover, this bill closes the door on new transit projects to help save on energy costs and improve safety for freight rail, and it slashes funding for Amtrak by $200 million, which would force it to defer system repairs.  I hope that the final version of this bill will correct these issues and restore funding for important transportation and housing priorities that support economic growth and middle-class opportunities.”