Representative Jeff Crank (CO-05) voted in favor of several appropriations bills on January 22, 2026, including the Defense Appropriations Act, the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, and the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act for 2026.
The Defense Appropriations Act aims to maintain U.S. military strength and improve efficiency within the Department of War. It also addresses border security and support for military personnel by providing a 3.8% pay raise for service members and a 1% raise for civilian employees. The act includes funding for missile defense, space programs, new aircraft for the Air National Guard, GPS satellites produced in Colorado, and directs modernization of space launch infrastructure.
The Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act supports initiatives aligned with President Trump’s focus on reducing federal spending while prioritizing primary care in rural areas. It increases funding for nutrition research at the National Institutes of Health and mental health treatment programs.
The Transportation, Housing and Urban Development bill focuses on transportation safety and maintaining housing assistance programs. Among its provisions is $1 million secured by Rep. Crank for safety improvements at Constitution Avenue and Peterson Road in El Paso County. Planned upgrades include enhanced crosswalks, pedestrian signals, refuge areas, intersection realignment, and improved signal timing to increase both pedestrian and vehicle safety.
“I am pleased that Congress continues to pass comprehensive appropriations packages that benefit all Americans,” said Rep. Crank. “Included in this package of bills are not only wins for our service members in our district, but directly affects all the people of El Paso County. Our office has secured improvements at Constitution Avenue and Peterson Road which will have enhanced crosswalks, pedestrian signals, and more to ensure the safety and well-being of all of Colorado’s Fifth Congressional District and its visitors.”
Carrie Geitner, chair of the El Paso County Board of Commissioners commented: “Congressman Jeff Crank has shown strong leadership on behalf of El Paso County. Because he’s from this community, he understands our needs and knows how to move local priorities through the legislative process. His support for the Constitution and Peterson Road safety project reflects a deep commitment to the residents who travel through this area every day, and his efforts helped advance funding that will enhance safety and deliver real benefits for our community.”
Additional highlights from these acts include increased funding for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), reinforcing English language proficiency requirements for truck drivers as well as citizenship requirements for housing assistance.