– Today, Rep. Dean Phillips (D-MN) voted to pass a bipartisan infrastructure deal, an historic investment in the nation’s roads, bridges and overall economy.  

The core infrastructure plan is based on a framework agreed to by the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus – where Phillips serves as Vice Chair – earlier this year. Phillips and other Problem Solvers Caucus leaders met with Sen. Joe Manchin, Republican Maryland Governor Larry Hogan, industry groups, and stakeholders to build consensus and chart a path forward on infrastructure legislation, releasing a policy framework that became a core part of the final deal. 

“Investments in roads, bridges, waterways, energy, broadband, and the future of our nation is a unifying need and opportunity,” said Rep. Phillips. “This package will allow our nation to make smart, fiscally responsible investments in our infrastructure and in our people. We must send this legislation to President Biden’s desk as soon as possible, so we can get shovels in the ground and people to work.” 

How The Infrastructure Deal Benefits Minnesota 

• Minnesota would receive:  

• Highways: $4.5 billion for federal-aid highway apportioned programs and
• Public transportation: $818 million to improve our public transportation
• Water Infrastructure: $680 million over five years to improve water infrastructure 
• Bridges: $302 million for bridge replacement and repairs 
• Broadband internet: $100 million 
• Wildfire protection: $20 million 
• Cybersecurity: $17 million 

Source: The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act will Deliver for Minnesota 

In addition to sorely-needed support for American infrastructure, Phillips will vote in favor of the rule to move forward transformative investments in child care, clean energy, and Americans’ health care in the Build Back Better Act.  

Once the Build Back Better Act is passed into law, a top priority for Phillips will be to rally support for aid for the restaurant, gym and live-event industries, which have all suffered tremendously from the rising Delta variant of COVID-19. Earlier this fall, Phillips successfully secured a promise from Democratic leaders for a vote on a targeted relief package for these small business owners.  

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