Washington, DC
, July 1, 2020 – The House of Representatives today passed H.R. 3684, the INVEST in America Act. The American Heart Association, the world's leading voluntary organization focused on heart and brain health, issued the following statement in support of the INVEST in America Act:
"The INVEST in America Act will help make bicycling, walking, rolling and taking transit safe and accessible. Providing more affordable active transportation options improves public health and reduces congestion and air pollution in our communities. These investments support safe and equitable active transportation in all communities and provide valuable opportunities for an active lifestyle in historically disadvantage communities.
"The American Heart Association has long prioritized increasing physical activity across the U.S. population to improve cardiovascular health and decrease the likelihood of chronic disease. The critical improvements to and increased funding for the Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) in the INVEST in America Act will ensure that local governments can build sidewalks, bike lanes, trails and crosswalks, which will greatly expand opportunities for physical activity for Americans. Active transportation – while practicing physical distancing – is essential for wellness and recreation and can also create economic revitalization in communities.
"Promoting active transportation is a leading evidence-based strategy to increase physical activity across the lifespan and the INVEST in America Act will help states create safer and more accessible communities. We are grateful to the House for making active transportation a priority and look forward to the Senate considering a transportation reauthorization soon."
