WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) released the following statement regarding his vote in the House of Representatives to pass H.R. 3684, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act:

“The best social program is a good-paying job, and today the Democratic majority in the House voted to make historic and long-overdue investments in infrastructure that will create millions of jobs for hardworking families. Every stretch of asphalt, every concrete pillar, and every mile of broadband will help rebuild our economy, help South Jersey families put food on the table, pay for their child’s education, and meet their everyday needs.

“By building America’s infrastructure, workers will rebuild their communities and local economies. They will receive more than just a paycheck. Whether they are welders, builders, or electricians, they’ll receive stability in what has been an incredibly stressful 19 months. This bill invests in America’s future by connecting businesses to market and working people to opportunity. That’s what rebuilding our infrastructure is about: creating jobs and building opportunities for people and our nation for generations to come.”

Congressman Norcross, who is an electrician by trade and rose through the ranks of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers before being elected to Congress, also supports the Build Back Better Act, which includes equally important investments in America’s middle class. He added:

“The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act is an incredible first step, but our work will not be done until we pass the Build Back Better Act. The Build Back Better Act invests in support infrastructure like affordable child care, among other vital investments, to make jobs accessible. I was once a young, single dad, raising my son and working on construction sites. I know how important child care is to hold down a job. To build back better and deliver for the American people, we must pass the Build Back Better Act.”

Background

The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act meets critical needs for New Jersey. The American Society of Civil Engineers gave New Jersey infrastructure a grade of “D+.” In New Jersey 502 bridges and nearly 4,000 miles of highway are in poor condition. Poor road conditions cost the average New Jersey driver over $700 in vehicle repairs. Investments to expand broadband access will connect the 31% of New Jersey households that do not currently have an internet connection.

Infrastructure Investments for New Jersey

The Infrastructure Investments and Jobs Act includes historic investments for New Jersey, including:

• $7.9 billion to repair highways, roads, and bridges. 
• $4.1 billion to improve public transit infrastructure.
• $1 billion to improve water infrastructure, including ensuring drinking water is clean and safe.
• $272 million to improve airport infrastructure.
• $104 million to support the expansion of an EV charging network.
• $100 million to help provide broadband coverage.
• $17 million to protect against cyberattacks against vital infrastructure.
• $15 million to protect against wildfires.

Figure 1The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act is the third largest percentage increase since the Highway Trust Fund was established in 1957.

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Contact: Britton Burdick, Communications Director
britton.burdick@mail.house.gov