The president recently initiated conversations with Democratic leaders regarding rebuilding the nation’s roadways, bridges, dams, airports, schools, and other infrastructure. However, the negotiations have been on hold until the passing of a new trade act with Mexico and Canada.
The deal is called the United States, Mexico, Canada Agreement (USMCA) and is designed to promote reciprocal trade in a way that supports high-paying jobs for citizens of all three North American countries. And since the ability to trade depends heavily on the ability to efficiently move materials, the trade deal is closely tied to the infrastructure conversation.
According to the president, “This path-breaking deal, already agreed to by the governments of Canada and Mexico, will boost employment growth and create millions of high-wage jobs. It will benefit farmers, manufacturing workers, unions and businesses throughout our great nation.”
The Current Condition of US Infrastructure
Now more than ever, we need to invest in our nation’s infrastructure, as buildings and structures around the nation have needed some love for years now. Every four years, the American Society of Civil Engineers publishes a report on the condition of our infrastructure, and it’s 2017 report revealed that the infrastructure has not improved since the report taken in 2013.
Undergoing the task of updating infrastructure offers a huge opportunity to boost economic activity across the country, in addition to improving the everyday lives of private citizens. Not only would it provide jobs for the women and men working on these structures, but it would also allow people in other sectors, such as commerce, to more productively and efficiently perform their job responsibilities.
Updates on the Status of Infrastructure Legislation
In late April of this year, the president and Democratic leaders agreed to invest $2 trillion roads, bridges, power grids, water and broadband infrastructure, but the question of where this funding will come from remains on the table.
Rebuilding the nation’s infrastructure benefits every American, and the move has widespread support that crosses party lines. The only question now is how to go about initiating large scale reconstruction and repair.
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