Foster Statement on Passage of Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act
Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Bill Foster (D-IL) issued the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, sending it to President Biden to be signed into law:
"For decades, Americans have been asking their elected leaders to fix crumbling roads and bridges and modernize our nation's transportation infrastructure. Illinois residents, including those I'm proud to represent in the 11th District, know all too well what decades of neglect has meant for the infrastructure we rely on every day. I'm proud that Democrats and Republicans worked together to make this historic infrastructure investment that will finally address the concerns we've been hearing from our constituents for far too long. Will County is home to the largest inland port in the nation, and its importance to the supply chain cannot be overstated. The investments included in this legislation will go a long way to make sure it stays that way, and that the jobs it supports stay right here in our community.
"In addition, this bipartisan legislation makes critical investments in broadband infrastructure. This means whether you live in a big city, a suburb, or a rural town, you can access reliable, affordable, high speed broadband internet for work, school, or simply to find information and services. As the digital economy continues to expand, equitable access to the internet couldn't be more important.
"This package also provides $55 billion to replace lead pipes in communities – from rural towns to cities, helping to ensure that millions of people and over 400,000 schools can access safe drinking water.
"This $1.2 trillion investment is historic, and it will help to create millions of new, good paying union jobs in Illinois and across the country. A modern infrastructure will provide the foundation for decades of economic growth in communities large and small.
"I look forward to voting for the historic investments in the Build Back Better Act as soon as possible.
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