Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas House Bill HB4335

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the creation of and the powers of a comprehensive multimodal urban transportation authority.

Impact

If enacted, HB4335 will significantly alter the landscape of urban transportation governance in Texas. It could lead to the consolidation of existing transportation entities under a new authority, which will streamline decision-making processes and potentially reduce redundancies. The bill empowers the authority to dedicate resources specifically for advanced transportation and comprehensive mobility enhancement projects, which may include pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure as well as technological upgrades to traffic systems. This could foster a more integrated and efficient transportation network across urban areas.

Summary

House Bill 4335 proposes the establishment of a comprehensive multimodal urban transportation authority in Texas. The authority will have broad powers to plan, develop, finance, operate, and maintain a wide range of transportation projects, including mass transit systems, commuter rail, fixed guideways, and associated facilities. The bill is aimed at improving transportation infrastructure and enhancing mobility for urban populations, specifically targeting areas with populations exceeding 700,000. The authority will also handle property acquisition, debt issuance, and may impose various taxes related to transportation improvements.

Contention

The bill may face scrutiny regarding the extent of its authority over local governance and the financial implications of establishing a new transportation body. Some may argue that the creation of the urban transportation authority centralizes power and could limit local municipalities' ability to address unique transportation needs effectively. Additionally, the financial mechanisms outlined for funding will likely raise questions about potential tax implications for residents and the efficiency of taxpayer funds in operationalizing the authority's initiatives.

Companion Bills

TX SB2096

Identical Relating to the creation of and the powers of a comprehensive multimodal urban transportation authority, including the power to impose taxes, issue bonds, and exercise limited eminent domain authority.

Previously Filed As

TX HB5400

Relating to the creation of the Presidio International Port Authority District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

TX SB2614

Relating to the creation of the Presidio International Port Authority District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

TX HB2190

Relating to the terminology used to describe transportation-related accidents.

TX HB1379

Relating to the development and operation by a regional mobility authority of an urban green space or aesthetic enhancement located above, adjacent to, or connected to an interstate highway.

TX SB848

Relating to the development and operation by a regional mobility authority of an urban green space or aesthetic enhancement located above, adjacent to, or connected to an interstate highway.

TX HB5352

Relating to the approval and creation of the Williamson County Development District No. 1; and to the administration, powers, duties, operation, and financing of the district, including the authority to impose an assessment, a tax, and issue bonds.

TX HB2191

Relating to mobile source emissions reductions and transportation electrification.

TX SB2508

Relating to mobile source emissions reductions and transportation electrification.

TX HB5359

Relating to the creation of the Williamson County Development District No. 1; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

TX HB3002

Relating to the authority of certain political subdivisions to issue certificates of obligation.

Similar Bills

TX SB2096

Relating to the creation of and the powers of a comprehensive multimodal urban transportation authority, including the power to impose taxes, issue bonds, and exercise limited eminent domain authority.

TX HB2423

Relating to the creation of regional transit authorities; granting the power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds.

TX HB2229

Relating to the creation of regional transit authorities; granting the power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds and charge fees.

TX HB2655

Relating to the creation of regional transit authorities; granting the power of eminent domain; providing authority to impose a tax and issue bonds.

TX SB1721

Relating to the creation of regional transit authorities; granting the power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds and charge fees; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB71

Relating to the creation of regional transit authorities; granting the power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds and charge fees; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB1986

Relating to the creation of regional transit authorities; granting the power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds and charge fees; creating a criminal offense.

TX SB2139

Relating to the creation of regional transit authorities; granting the power of eminent domain; providing authority to issue bonds and charge fees; creating a criminal offense.