Congressman Smith Concerned About Inflation with Recently Passed Infrastructure Bill

Nov. 18, 2021, 4:03 p.m. ·

Highway 75 traffic in Auburn, Nebraska. A silver minivan is followed by a blue semi, both driving along the road.
Nebraska's highway funding will see a 47 percent boost with the passage of an infrastructure bill, but Congressman Smith warns of its potential inflationary effects. (Photo by Allison Mollenkamp, Nebraska Public Media News)

Nebraska will receive $3 billion for infrastructure spending following the passage of an infrastructure bill in Washington earlier this week. Nebraska’s Third District Congressman Adrian Smith voted no on the bill, saying it could’ve been designed in a less partisan way.

“I am concerned about the financing of it,” Smith said. “You know, I’ve long said that simply spending more money without addressing the bureaucracy and regulations, I think could have an inflationary impact.”

Despite his vote, Smith said Nebraska should take the money. Additionally, he respects his colleagues and their decisions on the bill, including fellow Nebraska congressman Don Bacon who voted yes.

More than $2 billion of the state’s funds from the bill is planned to be allocated for roads, which increases Nebraska’s highway funding by 47 percent. Broadband internet and fire resiliency are other notable areas where the state plans on spending its infrastructure resources.

For a complete break down of where the other $1 billion will go, check out a report from Nebraska Public Media News' Will Bauer.