New Jersey Lawmakers Pushing Re-Authorization Of Federal Highway Trust Fund

PERTH AMBOY, N.J. (CBSNewYork) -- Standing in front of one of the state's 2,300 structurally deficient bridges, Rep. Frank Pallone said the clock is ticking to re-authorize the Federal Highway Trust Fund.

"Theoretically on May 31, if we don't do something in the next two weeks, everything stops," Pallone told WCBS 880's Jim Smith.

The trust fund could run out of money this summer.

Sen. Bob Menendez said not investing in infrastructure would jeopardize commerce, jobs and the economy.

"I categorically reject the idea that we can't afford to fix our transportation system. We can't afford not to fix it," Menendez said.

The lawmaker accused Republicans of trying to fund the program only through December, while Democrats want a multi-year deal, Smith reported.

"We can't keep pretending the problem is going to resolve itself," Menendez said.