Texas Senate Bill SR1107

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Suspending limitations on conference committee jurisdiction, H.B. No. 300.

Impact

One significant impact of SR1107 involves limiting the authority of the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) concerning comprehensive development agreements that relate to toll projects. By prohibiting certain non-competition provisions, the bill reinforces the department’s obligations to construct and maintain nontolled highways without compromising the services offered by private entities involved in toll projects. These provisions facilitate a more competitive environment for managing transportation infrastructure funding.

Summary

Senate Resolution SR1107 primarily addresses amendments to the Transportation Code of Texas, focusing on the authority and procedures surrounding transportation funding, toll projects, and land reclamation projects using scrap tires. The bill aims to streamline the management of transportation funds and enhance compliance with transportation planning at local levels by establishing stringent rules regarding funding formulas and project allocations. It includes specific regulations for transportation entities that participate in planning processes, thereby expanding their roles and responsibilities.

Contention

Notable points of contention in the discussions surrounding SR1107 include concerns from local authorities regarding their autonomy in transportation planning. The bill's requirements for local governments to engage with state-level planning organizations may be perceived as an undue inconvenience, particularly in regions with specific local needs. Critics argue that the bill could lead to a one-size-fits-all approach that inadequately addresses unique local transportation challenges while proponents assert that a unified strategy could drive overall efficiency.