Missouri House Bill HB2902

Missouri 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/29/24
• Refer: 5/17/24

Caption

Requires the department of transportation to prioritize federal priority corridors in the statewide transportation improvement program (STIP) and requires any changes to the STIP to be approved by the joint committee on administrative rules

Impact

In terms of legislative impact, HB 2902 amends Chapter 226 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri by adding a new section that outlines priorities for the STIP. The changes are expected to streamline the planning and funding processes for transportation projects, ensuring that the highest priority corridors are addressed in a timely manner. Additionally, any proposed amendments to the STIP during its implementation period will need the approval of the joint committee on administrative rules, thereby incorporating a layer of legislative oversight into transportation planning.

Summary

House Bill 2902 mandates that the Missouri Department of Transportation prioritize federal high-priority corridors when preparing the statewide transportation improvement program (STIP). This legislation reinforces the importance of specific transportation routes recognized at the federal level, which play a significant role in improving state infrastructure. By aligning state priorities with federal directives, the bill aims to enhance connectivity and efficiency within the transportation network across Missouri.

Contention

While the bill is designed to improve transportation infrastructure, there may be points of contention surrounding its implementation. Critics might argue that prioritizing federal corridors could divert attention and resources away from local and regional transportation needs. Additionally, there may be concerns about the constraints placed on the Missouri Department of Transportation in terms of flexibility to adjust the STIP in response to evolving local transportation requirements. The requirement for approval by the joint committee on administrative rules could also slow down the necessary responsiveness of transportation planning.

Notable_points

Supporters of HB 2902 are likely to advocate for its potential to enhance economic growth and facilitate better logistics through improved infrastructure. The alignment with federal priorities is seen as a positive step towards securing federal funding and support. In contrast, local governments and stakeholder groups might express concerns about how this focus could potentially marginalize localized projects that are critical for community development. The balance between federal requirements and local needs will be crucial in the practical application of this bill.