Statement: Biden expresses transformative vision in ‘Build Back Better’ infrastructure plan

Investments in shovel-worthy infrastructure projects are top priorities for supporting public health, environment

Maryland PIRG

Baltimore — President Joe Biden will unveil his “Build Back Better” infrastructure package on Wednesday in Pittsburgh, the same Pennsylvania city where he first announced his presidential campaign in 2019. Based on the fact sheet released by the White House on Wednesday morning, his plan focuses infrastructure investments on key measures to improve public health and the environment, including expanding electric transportation, removing lead from drinking water and strengthening our electric grid.

These are among the priorities proposed by our sister organization Maryland PIRG Foundation in a report last November. That report laid out a transformative vision for stronger, more sustainable infrastructure that would support public health, the environment and build a future powered by clean energy. Across the political spectrum, the public widely supports investments in our nation’s infrastructure: More than 360 local officials delivered a letter earlier this month to the Biden administration and Congress calling for infrastructure investment.

Maryland PIRG Director Emily Scarr said:

“It’s long past time to revive our outdated transportation system, revamp our energy infrastructure, and replace our lead-laden pipes. Our outdated infrastructure impacts our health and safety, our quality of life, and the planet. President Biden’s plan truly will help us ‘Build Back Better.’

“Here in Baltimore, and in every community across the entire state, Biden’s plan will help Marylanders. By reinstating the Polluters Pays Tax and eliminating tax preferences for the fossil fuel industry, we can invest in infrastructure that helps clean up our air and water, and protects public health.”

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