Peace Garden News

U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer and Mark Kelly have put forward the Transportation Asset Management Simplification Act (TAMSA) to alleviate the reporting obligations faced by state departments of transportation (DOTs). The proposed legislation seeks to reduce the burden imposed by current law, which mandates state DOTs to submit both a Transportation Asset Management Plan (TAMP) every four years and separate annual reports detailing the implementation of their TAMPs. These annual submissions, which require significant labor and review, are considered redundant by many.

The newly introduced TAMSA aims to streamline the process by integrating the annual reports into the quadrennial TAMP submissions. Furthermore, the bill allows states more time to address any shortcomings by aligning the resolution period with the 90-day TAMP deficiency cure period. The Secretary of Transportation would also have the authority to extend this period upon a state’s request.

Cramer emphasized that the bill is designed to "reduce red tape," thus allowing state DOTs to prioritize the maintenance of roads and bridges over bureaucratic reporting tasks. He describes the measure as a "commonsense, responsible" approach to eliminating unnecessary bureaucracy while ensuring states continue to manage their infrastructure responsibly.

Kelly added, "States shouldn’t have to waste time on redundant federal paperwork when they could be focused on maintaining safe and reliable roads and bridges." He believes the streamlined requirements will allow more resources and focus on improving infrastructure that communities rely on.

North Dakota Department of Transportation expressed gratitude to Senator Cramer for the initiative, noting that the proposed changes would save substantial work hours, emphasizing that the reform does not compromise the benefits to citizens.

Statements from transportation authorities highlighted that state DOTs are adept at managing transportation investments, and the bill will allow them to hone their focus on maintaining infrastructure and reducing lifecycle costs. They acknowledged Cramer and Kelly’s effort to "streamline and modernize" the reporting requisites, enabling states to better sustain programs of transportation investments.

The bill text is available for those interested in further details.