Texas House Bill HB3395

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to the establishment of the Transportation Legislative Oversight Committee.

Impact

The establishment of this committee represents a significant effort to enhance the oversight of Texas’s transportation system. By conducting in-depth analyses on the use of both public and private funding, the committee aims to identify pressing issues such as funding constraints and long-term transportation needs. The committee's recommendations will be directed to the legislature to inform policy priorities and strategies aimed at resolving identified problems. The establishment of such a committee is expected to promote transparency and accountability within the Texas Department of Transportation.

Summary

House Bill 3395 aims to establish the Transportation Legislative Oversight Committee in Texas. The committee is tasked with providing objective research, analysis, and recommendations regarding the operation and needs of the state transportation system. Comprised of six members, including the chairs of the Senate and House transportation committees, as well as appointed senators and representatives, this committee will play a critical role in studying the effectiveness of the state’s transportation policies and practices. They will also have the authority to hire staff and contract outside experts to assist in their responsibilities.

Contention

While the bill seeks to ensure a more structured approach to transportation governance, potential points of contention include the balance of power between the Transportation Legislative Oversight Committee and the Texas Department of Transportation. Critics may express concerns regarding the committee's ability to independently evaluate the department’s performance and the effectiveness of its projects. Furthermore, the potential implications of applying performance measurements across different transport planning entities could lead to debates about equity and resource distribution.

Overall_significance

Ultimately, HB3395 reflects a legislative initiative to address systemic challenges within Texas’s transportation framework. By potentially improving the efficiency of transportation funding and project delivery, the bill could pave the way for enhanced infrastructure development across the state. The work of the committee, which includes evaluating and recommending organizational structures and performance benchmarks, may also lead to significant reforms within the Texas Department of Transportation.