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Rep. Bill Browne Named to National Panel on Transportation

AUGUSTA – State Rep. Bill Browne has been named to an influential national committee that deals with major transportation issues under the auspices of the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL). Maine House Speaker Hannah Pingree recently announced the appointment, which takes effect immediately.

The NCSL, based in Denver, is a bipartisan organization. Its committees have no actual legislative authority. Instead, they attempt to educate Congress and federal agencies about state concerns regarding the most pressing issues.

Rep. Browne (R-Vassalboro) will join the NCSL’s Standing Committee on Transportation, which has jurisdiction over a vast array of issues, including: aviation; driver licensing; freight mobility; highways; public transportation; traffic safety; and waterways and ports. Committee members also explore traffic congestion; rail issues; commercial vehicle safety; and transportation funding. The panel consists of state legislators and staff from around the country. It convenes three times a year in conjunction with NCSL’s main national meetings.

One of the most pressing items for the committee involves the REAL ID Act. Earlier this year, the committee took a position urging Congress to work with NCSL and its members as PASS ID moves through the legislative process to ensure state costs for its implementation would be funded by the federal government. Congress has introduced the Providing for Additional Security in States’ Identification Act of 2009 – the PASS ID Act. This bill would replace Title II of the REAL ID Act and take steps toward addressing the concerns of state legislatures when it comes to implementing REAL ID.

“I’m honored by this appointment, and I’m looking forward to sharing information and ideas with legislators from other states,” Rep. Browne said. “I’m encouraged by the committee’s position on REAL ID, especially on the cost side. I understand the national security concerns and the need to prevent illegal aliens from obtaining licenses; but the states can’t handle the expense, especially right now. The goal is to work with Congress to develop more practical alternatives and deadlines.”

In the Maine Legislature, Rep. Browne is the ranking Republican on the Transportation Committee, which has jurisdiction over the Department of Transportation; the Bureau of Motor Vehicles; motor vehicle registration and license plates; and driver’s licenses. It also oversees the Highway Fund; the Maine Turnpike Authority; highway and bridge construction and maintenance; highway safety; waterways; railroads; and motor vehicles.

Rep. Browne said one of the strengths of the NCSL is its firm support for state sovereignty. “At a time of growing federal encroachment on states’ rights, we’re fortunate to have this strong advocate for federalism,” he said.

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