Texas House Bill HB1253

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to repeal of authority for the establishment and operation of the Trans-Texas Corridor.

Impact

If enacted, HB 1253 would significantly impact the statutes governing state transportation and taxation policies. The repeal of the authority for the Trans-Texas Corridor is expected to diminish the role of private entities in managing state highway systems and potentially redirect state funding toward public ownership and management of these transportation networks. Consequently, this could lead to an emphasis on expanding state-controlled transportation projects instead of relying on privately managed toll roads and facilities.

Summary

House Bill 1253 focuses on the repeal of the authority for the establishment and operation of the Trans-Texas Corridor. This bill seeks to dismantle the legislative framework which previously allowed the Texas Department of Transportation to lease and license state transportation facilities to private entities, specifically in relation to the Trans-Texas Corridor project. The bill aims to amend multiple sections of the Tax Code and the Transportation Code, eliminating provisions that granted tax exemptions on properties associated with the Corridor.

Contention

Notably, there may be points of contention surrounding the implications of this repeal. Proponents of the bill argue that it is a necessary step to curtail potential overreach by private companies in public infrastructure management, emphasizing the need for taxpayer accountability and public transparency. Conversely, opponents might voice concerns about the unintended consequences of stripping away private-sector engagement, which could result in increased fiscal constraints on the state’s ability to maintain and expand transportation facilities effectively.