Fresh to the core

摘要

Focusing on our motto, "Safer Roads Save Lives," is the message that American Traffic Safety Services Association (ATSSA) staff and volunteers are taking to Capitol Hill in support of the creation of a core roadway safety program as a key element of TEA-21 reau-thorization. And the Senate, House of Representatives and White House are all listening. Each of their proposals includes the creation of such a program, with funding between $7.5 and $7.9 billion annually. Although this is good news for our industry, we share our members' frustration with the continued delays in moving a bill through Congress. Recent visits to our members have given me a first-hand look at what many on the "front line" are experiencing in today's tough market. State after state has raided highway funds or reduced expenditures in order to meet balanced budget requirements. Many local governments also have felt the effect of three years of economic downturn.