The Senate has passed a short-term federal funding package Aug. 9, 2026, that extends Highway Trust Fund authority and keeps key highway and transit programs operating as lawmakers work toward a broader agreement on transportation funding.
The measure, approved by the Senate as part of a broader continuing resolution, extends federal government funding through Dec. 11, giving Congress additional time to negotiate fiscal year 2027 appropriations and longer-term transportation legislation.
The Senate package also includes the Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2026, which extends covered federal highway, transit and related programs.
The Highway Trust Fund is a central source of federal support for transportation infrastructure, providing funding to states and local governments for roads, bridges and transit programs. Without congressional action, portions of the federal transportation authorization were scheduled to expire at the end of fiscal year 2026 on Sept. 30.
The Senate measure provides a temporary bridge rather than a permanent reauthorization of federal surface transportation programs. Transportation advocates have urged Congress to use the additional time to develop a long-term funding framework as the current infrastructure law approaches the end of its authorization.
Under the Senate legislation, Highway Trust Fund contract authority for covered programs would continue through the duration of the extension. The measure also protects certain unobligated Highway Trust Fund resources from expiring at the end of September by extending their availability into 2027.
Industry groups have warned that uncertainty surrounding the next transportation authorization could make it harder for states and local governments to plan major highway, bridge and transit projects.
The Senate package maintains many transportation programs at current funding levels but does not continue certain advance appropriations provided under the 2021 infrastructure law. Transit advocates have raised concerns about the absence of those funds and are pressing Congress for a more comprehensive transportation funding agreement.
The Senate's action shifts the next step to the House, which must consider the Senate-passed funding package. If lawmakers ultimately approve the measure and it is signed into law, transportation programs covered by the extension will avoid an immediate funding lapse while Congress continues negotiations.
