Although Congress recently passed another Highway bill extension, HR 4348, was introduced yesterday which would mirror the extension passed in March but extend the authorizations further until September 30.

The purpose in moving the Surface Transportation Extension Act Part II is to move a straight extension bill to conference where some compromises with the Senate can be achieved.

Although the bill will not include policy changes for surface transportation programs, the bill will contain a provision that would approve the Keystone XL pipeline – maintaining the issue as an election year focal point.