Congress has begun work on reauthorizing federal surface transportation programs ahead of the September 30, 2026 expiration of current authorities. On May 22, 2026, the U.S. House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure approved the BUILD America 250 Act (H.R. 8870) by a bipartisan vote of 62-2, advancing a five-year, $580 billion surface transportation reauthorization package.
The legislation would provide long-term funding and policy direction for federal highway, transit, freight, rail, and safety programs that support economic growth, mobility, and infrastructure investment across the country. The bill includes approximately $474 billion in contract authority, providing states and local governments with greater certainty for long-term transportation planning and project delivery.
House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Sam Graves (R-MO) and Ranking Member Rick Larsen (D-WA) developed the legislation as a bipartisan compromise and have emphasized the importance of completing reauthorization before current authorities expire. Chairman Graves has stated that he hopes to bring the bill to the House floor as quickly as possible, although House leadership has not yet announced a timetable for consideration.
The committee's action represents the first major step toward enactment of a new surface transportation authorization law. The current authorization, established under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021, expires on September 30, 2026. Reauthorization is critical to ensuring continued federal investment in transportation infrastructure and avoiding disruptions to highway, transit, and freight programs relied upon by states, regions, and local communities.
While the House has advanced legislation, the Senate has not yet released its own reauthorization proposal or announced a timeline for committee consideration. Senate committees are expected to begin developing their approach in the coming months, with stakeholders closely monitoring how Senate priorities may differ from the House package.
Surface transportation reauthorization remains a top priority for economic developers because of its direct impact on regional competitiveness, freight movement, workforce access, infrastructure modernization, and long-term economic growth. Federal transportation investments play a critical role in supporting community development, attracting private investment, and improving connectivity for businesses and residents alike.
Separately, congressional leaders continue to consider transportation safety legislation, including proposals related to aviation safety and rail safety. Some rail safety provisions were incorporated into the House transportation package, reflecting ongoing congressional interest in strengthening safety requirements following several high-profile transportation incidents in recent years.
Next Steps: The House is expected to consider the BUILD America 250 Act later this year. The Senate must still develop and advance its own reauthorization proposal before the two chambers can negotiate a final package. With current authorities scheduled to expire on September 30, 2026, lawmakers face a compressed timeline to complete work on a long-term surface transportation reauthorization.