This bill represents a major shift in how the government views the relationship between transportation and housing. Currently, many urban planners believe the best way to reduce traffic and help the environment is to build housing right next to trains and buses so people don't have to drive. This bill's supporters want to move away from that, arguing that federal transportation dollars should be strictly reserved for moving people from point A to point B, not for real estate development.

If this bill becomes law, it could slow down the growth of 'transit villages' and dense urban neighborhoods. On the other hand, it might ensure that limited federal funds are focused entirely on fixing aging tracks, bridges, and roads rather than being split with private-sector housing or retail projects.