In a historic vote late Friday evening, both chambers of Congress approved the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, sending the $1.2 trillion package to President Biden's desk for his signature.
The legislation, which passed the Senate with bipartisan support and the House along near party lines, represents the most significant investment in American infrastructure in decades.
What's in the Bill
The package includes $550 billion in new spending over five years, with the remainder coming from previously authorized programs. Key provisions include:
- $110 billion for roads, bridges, and major projects
- $66 billion for passenger and freight rail
- $65 billion for broadband infrastructure
- $55 billion for clean drinking water
- $39 billion for public transit modernization
"This is a generational investment in America's future," said Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. "We're finally going to fix roads and bridges that have been neglected for far too long."
Political Implications
The bill's passage comes as a major win for President Biden, who has made infrastructure a centerpiece of his domestic agenda. However, progressive Democrats remain focused on the larger social spending package still making its way through Congress.