Congress passed a transportation bill Friday – after nine extensions and more than one-thousand days. Senator Mike Johanns of Nebraska – one of the affirmative votes for the bill – says the legislation is good news for anyone who drives the nation’s highways, lives in flood-prone areas or endeavors to begin college. The bill authorizes federal highway programs for the next two-years and includes an extension of the current student loan interest rate. It also includes a five-year federal flood insurance program reform. National Cattlemen’s Beef Association President J.D. Alexander says the bill is a big deal to farm and ranch families across the country – as it prevents certain farm vehicles from vigorous federal requirements and provides additional uniformity across state lines. The legislation also waives certain restrictions for farmers transporting commodities during planting and harvesting seasons.