Additional extensions of SAFETEA-LU (P.L. 109-59), the long-term surface transportation authorization that expired September 2009, became more of a reality after both the House and Senate adjourned without having introduced new reauthorization legislation.  House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure Chairman John L. Mica (R-FL) and Senate Environment and Public Works Chairman Barbara Boxer (D-CA) have both released outlines on their prospective plans but no legislative text has been introduced.  Chairman Mica is expected to introduce a six-year, $230 billion measure and Chairman Boxer is expected to introduce a two-year, $109 billion measure.

Legislation extending surface transportation programs will likely be introduced when the Congress returns after Labor Day.  The current extension (P.L. 112-5) expires on September 30, 2011.