Relating to the operation of a state highway or segment of a state highway as a toll project.
Impact
The bill's impact on state laws revolves primarily around existing regulations concerning toll roads and financial management of public highways. By instituting stricter limitations and conditions for designating highways as toll facilities, the bill seeks to prevent arbitrary changes to highway statuses and ensure that local communities are consulted and informed about such major decisions. This could lead to more stable planning and implementation of transportation projects, aligning state actions with the expectations of constituents.
Summary
House Bill 13 is designed to regulate the operation of state highways or segments of state highways as toll projects in Texas. The legislation aims to clarify the conditions under which the Texas Department of Transportation may designate a non-toll highway for toll operation. This includes specific stipulations regarding prior designations, public disclosure, and the requirement for voter approval when converting a highway to a toll project. The intention is to provide a structured framework for managing toll projects while maintaining an element of public oversight and accountability.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding HB 13 include concerns from local governments regarding potential restrictions on their ability to manage local transportation needs. Critics argue that the bill could limit flexibility, particularly in rapidly growing urban areas where transportation needs can shift quickly and unpredictably. Supporters of the bill contend that the existing processes for converting highways to toll facilities were not sufficiently rigorous, potentially leading to misallocation of funds and unanticipated consequences for travelers and local residents.