Connecticut House Bill HB05954

Connecticut 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/24/11
• Refer: 1/24/11

Caption

An Act Concerning The Report Of The Connecticut Public Transportation Commission.

Impact

The implementation of HB 05954 would amend Section 13b-11a of the General Statutes, thereby instituting a regular and formal communication framework between the Department of Transportation and the Connecticut Public Transportation Commission. The intent is to ensure that the insights gathered by the commission are not only acknowledged but systematically addressed by the state government. This will likely improve the quality of public transportation services and related infrastructure development across Connecticut, leading to better informed decision-making based on the commission's annual assessments.

Summary

House Bill 05954 aims to enhance the oversight of the Connecticut Public Transportation Commission by mandating the Commissioner of Transportation to provide annual written comments and analysis regarding the commission's report. This requirement is intended to foster greater accountability and transparency in the state's public transportation sector, ensuring that state officials actively engage with the findings and recommendations put forth by the commission. The bill emphasizes the need for oversight in transportation planning and policy-making, thereby strengthening the dialogue between state agencies and the commission.

Contention

While the bill appears to have a constructive purpose, there may be discussions surrounding the extent of the authority that the Commissioner of Transportation should have in commenting on the commission's reports. Potential concerns could arise regarding the perceived independence of the commission and its ability to operate without undue influence from the state. Stakeholders might debate whether requiring written comments could result in the state unduly impacting the commission's findings or recommendations, ultimately shaping them to align more closely with governmental agendas.