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The Senate Environment and Public Works Committee conducted a hearing on the National Surface Transportation Policy and Revenue Study Commission’s report to Congress, Transportation for Tomorrow. Similar to the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee hearing earlier this month, the Senators attending the hearing were very complimentary and appreciative of the Commission’s effort and final report, and agreed to give the report serious consideration as a blueprint for the upcoming SAFETEA-LU reauthorization process.
As during the House hearing, no member publicly accepted the Commission’s recommendation to increase the federal fuel tax, but all members signaled their support for increased investment in the nation’s surface transportation system. Senators expressed concern with the desirability and ability of Congress to enact such a large increase in the federal fuel tax and were instead enthusiastic of recommendations in the report to accelerate towards a miles-based financing mechanism. Senators did express disappointment with what they perceive as a lack of creativity in presenting a range of funding options.
Senators also made substantial comments regarding the Commission’s recommendation to streamline the project delivery process, and discussed with the Commissioners ideas to improve freight mobility and promote passenger rail.
 
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