Mica To Obama: No Compromise On Transportation Bill

The WSJ report indicates that the debate that led to the FAA ticket tax suspension was just a prelude as to what to expect on Sept. 30 when the federal gas tax expires.

1 minute read

August 11, 2011, 2:00 PM PDT

By Irvin Dawid


As House Transportation Committee Chair, John Mica was a key person that led to the disagreement with the Senate that resulted in the July 23 to August 5 suspension of the Federal Aviation Administration ticket tax on air travel that suspended airport infrastructure spending.

"John Mica (R., Fla.) said (August 5) he wouldn't budge from his proposal for a six-year ($230 billion) highway bill that would cut spending from existing levels, so that the government doesn't spend more than the roughly $34 billion a year it receives from the existing federal gas tax."

The House plan will "slash transportation infrastructure spending by about a third from existing levels".

"Opposition to raising the current gasoline tax, which hasn't changed since 1997, is widespread and bipartisan, reflecting public distaste for higher gasoline prices. President Obama has consistently declared his opposition to increasing the levy."

President Obama is depending on considerable transportation infrastructure spending to decrease unemployment and stimulate the economy.

Contributor's note: Access to WSJ link may cease on August 15 for non-subscribers to WSJ.

Thanks to Mark Boshnack

Saturday, August 6, 2011 in The Wall Street Journal/Politics

portrait of professional woman

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

For Lease painted on window of vacant commercial space.

2024: The Year in Zoning

Cities and states are leaning on zoning reform to help stem the housing crisis and create more affordable, livable neighborhoods.

January 8, 2025 - Diana Ionescu

Cyclist on bike in green painted bike lane at intersection with three-story buildings in background.

NACTO Releases Updated Urban Bikeway Guide

The third edition of the nationally recognized road design guide includes detailed design advice for roads that prioritize safety and accessibility for all users.

January 8, 2025 - National Association of City Transportation Officials (NACTO)

Colorado flags draped between buildings in downtown Denver, Colorado.

Denver Pauses Multifamily Development in Westside Neighborhoods Amidst Gentrification Concerns

City officials say the pause on permits for redevelopment projects aims to stop the displacement of long-term residents.

January 9, 2025 - Governing

24-hour parking sign above parking garage entrance through which you can see a white SUV driving

Comprehensive Parking Supply, Cost, and Price Analysis

Every time somebody purchases a vehicle they expect governments and businesses to provide parking for their use. These facilities are costly. For every dollar motorists spend on their vehicles somebody spends about a dollar on parking.

2 hours ago - Comprehensive Parking Supply, Cost and Price Analysis

Red and white "Wildfire Evacuation Route" sign on signpost.

Learning From Wildfire Evacuations

Researchers are working to understand how people behave during wildfire events and how to most effectively get people to safety during deadly fires.

3 hours ago - Wired

Empty large outdoor parking lot with green trees in background.

Parking Reform Yields New Housing

As more cities eliminate or reduce their minimum parking requirements, the impact on housing supply is coming into focus.

4 hours ago - The New York Times

Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools

This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.

Planning for Universal Design

Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.