San Diego Association of Governments: San Diego County Regional Transportation Commission: transactions and use tax: expenditure plan.
One of the significant provisions of AB 1398 concerns the San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) and its regional transportation commission responsibilities. The bill imposes restrictions on SANDAG's board regarding changes to the allocation of revenues in the TransNet Extension Ordinance's expenditure plan. SANDAG cannot alter revenue allocations beyond a specified percentage without undergoing a legislative process that includes public meetings and voter approval. This provision is intended to ensure community engagement and transparency in transportation funding decisions, safeguarding local interests in regional development.
Assembly Bill 1398, known as the Government Modernization Act of 2019, aims to enhance the operational efficiency of California's state government by establishing a Government Modernization Working Group. The bill directs the Secretary of Government Operations to collaborate with various state departments to streamline and improve state operations, ensuring that the government keeps pace with technological advancements. It also emphasizes the importance of engaging various industry experts to provide insights into effective service delivery and operational management improvements, thereby aligning state practices with contemporary needs.
The sentiment surrounding AB 1398 appears to be cautiously optimistic among supporters who advocate for modernization and efficiency in state governance. Many stakeholders express hope that the establishment of the working group will foster innovative approaches and improve public service delivery. However, some concerns linger about the extent to which community voices are considered, especially regarding transportation funding and the potential bureaucratic challenges involved in complying with new requirements for public input and voter engagement.
Notable points of contention within the discussions of AB 1398 include concerns regarding the potential complications that could arise from requiring public meetings and special elections to approve expenditure plan changes. Critics argue that this could hinder swift transportation improvements, as it places additional procedural burdens on SANDAG. Conversely, proponents believe these requirements will lead to greater democratic participation and accountability in how transportation funds are allocated and used, reflecting the broader community's needs.