To amend title 23, United States Code, with respect to the amounts States are guaranteed under the highway apportionment formula, and for other purposes.
- Sponsor
- Rep. Pappas, Chris [D-NH-1]
- Committees
- Transportation and Infrastructure Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Apr 16, 2026
Bottom line
This bill ensures that all states receive a larger guaranteed minimum share of federal highway funding, potentially reallocating funds from larger to smaller states.
What it actually does
H.R. 8348 amends title 23, United States Code, to increase the minimum guaranteed share of total federal highway apportionment for states. Specifically, it raises the minimum percentage a state is guaranteed from 0.5 percent to 0.75 percent of the total funds distributed under the highway apportionment formula.
Proponents argue
Proponents argue that this amendment ensures a more equitable distribution of federal highway funds, preventing smaller states or those with less dense populations from receiving a disproportionately small share. It guarantees a baseline level of funding necessary for maintaining and improving critical infrastructure across all states, promoting national connectivity and economic development.
Opponents contend
Opponents might argue that increasing the minimum guarantee could divert funds from larger, more populous states that contribute more to the Highway Trust Fund and have greater infrastructure needs due to higher traffic volumes and more extensive road networks. This could be seen as an inefficient allocation of resources, potentially penalizing states with higher economic activity and population growth.
The bill text is extremely short and easy to read, allowing for quick comprehension of its direct impact.
Section 1, amending Section 104(c)(1)(B) of title 23, United States Code.
Increase in Minimum Guaranteed Highway Apportionment for States
This provision modifies the existing formula for distributing federal highway funds to states. Currently, states are guaranteed at least 0.5 percent of the total highway apportionment. This bill increases that minimum guarantee to 0.75 percent, meaning no state will receive less than three-quarters of a percent of the total federal highway funds allocated.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this ensures all states, particularly smaller ones, have adequate and predictable funding for essential infrastructure maintenance and development, fostering regional equity and preventing critical infrastructure decay.
Critics contend
Critics might contend that this reallocation could disadvantage states with greater population and vehicle miles traveled, where the need for extensive highway maintenance and expansion is arguably higher, potentially leading to underinvestment in high-traffic areas.
Tradeoffs
The bill balances the principle of equitable minimum funding for all states against the principle of allocating funds based on factors like population, road mileage, and vehicle miles traveled, which typically favor larger states.