Federal Issues

U.S. House Passes Extension of SAFETEA-LU

The U.S. House of Representatives on March 5 narrowly approved HR 2847, the Hiring Incentives to Restore Employment (HIRE) Act that, among other things, would bolster the Highway Trust Fund (HTF) with $19.5 billion to meet current obligations and extend reauthorization of the highway and transit programs through the end of 2010. Read more about the extension of SAFETEA-LU

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The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act

The League has compiled information on the various provisions of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), also known as the federal stimulus package, that are most likely to impact cities. The ARRA Information Guide contains brief overviews of each funding area, as well as total funding amounts in the package and the Minnesota share, where applicable.

Read more about federal stimulus funds that may be available to cities

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About the National League of Cities

While the League focuses primarily on state legislative issues, we also advocate on federal issues directly and through our partner organization, the National League of Cities (NLC).

NLC is a key advocacy and information resource for elected city officials. NLC keeps members apprised of federal regulations, solutions to problems, and challenges for the future.

In 1924, the League of Minnesota Cities and other state municipal leagues formed NLC to have a voice for city issues in Washington, D.C. Today, NLC continues its advocacy role and includes a wide variety of learning and leadership development opportunities.

Elected officials from League of Minnesota Cities member cities can attend NLC conferences and leadership training seminars, serve on policy committees, and access NLC’s information resources. Your city can also become an NLC Direct Member City, allowing you to receive additional discounts and strengthen your level of participation in NLC.

Learn more about the National League of Cities at www.nlc.org