US: The Portland Cement Association (PCA) has expressed its support of the House of Representatives' new Infrastructure and Jobs Act, consisting of a US$1.2Tn infrastructure spending plan. The plan includes US$550bn in new federal investments before 2027. US$16bn is set aside for 'major projects' requiring special funding arrangements. The legislative body voted in favour of the bill on 7 November 2021. The act awaits the signature of US President Joe Biden. Biden previously unveiled a proposed US$2.25Tn infrastructure package in March 2021.
PCA president and chief executive officer Michael Ireland said "The PCA applauds the US House of Representatives for finally passing the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. This bipartisan infrastructure bill not only addresses years of underinvestment in the nation’s infrastructure but will spur economic growth and job creation in communities across the country, improving the quality of life and our nation’s global competitiveness. As many are still recovering from the Covid-19 pandemic, this legislation will further our nation’s recovery, creating thousands of well-paying jobs."
He continued "PCA members across the country appreciate the legislation passing a long-term reauthorisation of the surface transportation programme, including significant investments in our water infrastructure, providing funding for the department of energy to focus on the research, developmentand deployment of technologies for manufacturers to capture carbon emissions, and the exemption of cement from Buy America requirements. We are eager for President Biden to sign this legislation into law and start building a better future for America.”
