President Donald Trump's administration is backing off its demand for an extra layer of federal scrutiny whenever states seek even minor changes to their transportation plans, after the rescinded requirement sparked concern that some payments for roads, bridges and transit would be delayed or even halted due to policy differences.
Most of the federal money used for transportation projects flows to states almost automatically through formulas established by Congress that consider population and other factors. For decades, states have enjoyed widespread autonomy to set their own priorities and spend the funds on projects they deem as most worthy.
But under the policy the administration put in place last week and reversed this week, no additional money was to be allocated until lawyers in the U.S. Department of Transportation ’s Washington headquarters signed off on any changes. Such amendments to state transportation plans were already subject to a federal review, but it was usually a swift process from a regional office to confirm they didn't violate any U.S. laws.
