Missouri House Bill HJR127

Missouri 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/5/24
• Refer: 2/8/24

Caption

Proposes a constitutional amendment modifying provisions relating to revenue derived from highway users that is deposited into the state road fund

Impact

The proposed amendment is expected to increase transparency and budgetary oversight for the Department of Transportation. It would require the department to submit its annual budget for approval to the General Assembly, aligning it with the practices of other state departments. By doing this, HJR127 aims to prevent the misallocation of funds and ensure that revenues from highway users are specifically directed toward highway-related projects, thereby enhancing the overall infrastructure within the state.

Summary

HJR127 is a proposed joint resolution aimed at amending the Missouri Constitution to modify how revenue derived from highway users is handled, specifically concerning the state road fund. The resolution seeks to repeal Section 30(b) of Article IV and replace it with a new section that establishes stricter controls over revenue allocation. This change would mandate that all state revenue collected from highway users, which includes various fees and taxes associated with motor vehicles, be deposited directly into the state road fund for use in the construction and maintenance of state highways.

Contention

The resolution has raised some points of contention among lawmakers and stakeholders. Supporters argue that having a clear and regulated system for highway funding is necessary to ensure that the funds are appropriately used for their intended purposes. Conversely, opponents express concerns that this additional layer of oversight could lead to bureaucratic delays in funding critical transportation projects. Moreover, there are apprehensions that strictly earmarking funds could inadvertently limit the flexibility needed to address unforeseen infrastructure needs in the future.