The National Retail Federation today issued the following statement from President and CEO Matthew Shay in response to the announcement that Congressional negotiators and the White House agreed to an infrastructure framework.

“NRF is encouraged by a bipartisan group of Senators and the Biden Administration finding agreement on a framework for an infrastructure package. Infrastructure has always had strong support across the aisle, so crafting a bipartisan pathway for this essential investment is the surest way to achieve progress.

“Now more than ever, the U.S. needs significant investment to ensure we remain competitive on a global basis. The retail industry relies on our nation’s transportation network to move billions of dollars’ worth of merchandise every day to warehouses, distribution centers and stores, and ultimately to consumers’ front doors. The ongoing supply chain disruptions that retailers and others are continuing to face highlight the need for investment and reform.

“As witnessed by the ongoing supply chain challenges facing retailers and others, a major infrastructure package needs to focus on improving the overall system, and prioritize safety, efficiency, resiliency and building for tomorrow’s needs. We need to ensure that the legislation includes sustainable funding mechanisms without overburdening the businesses that are leading our economy out of the pandemic.”