(RALEIGH) -- The State House Transportation Committee began debate this week on a measure to bar the state Transportation Department from accepting $460 million in federal funds to expand high-speed rail.   The only reason the money would be accepted is if the Republican-led General Assembly approves.

Democratic Rep. Ray Rapp of Madison County said this is a chance the state cannot pass on.  "This is a way to double track about 25 miles over near Greensboro, improve the efficiency and economy of the delivery of services on the rail line, so it just makes sense to me that we accept this money which has no state match required," said Rapp.

While the state would not have to come up with matching fund to use the federal money, bill sponsor Rep. Rica Lillian of Charlotte said he is worried the state will be left with a big annual maintenance bill for the train service. "Is it worth spending up to $41.4 million a year from the Highway Trust Fund to operate and maintain this line which will not do anything to relieve congestion and have that burden on the citizens of our state indefinitely," asked Rica.  "I don't think so."