Texas House Bill HB1276

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Out of House Committee: 4/19/11
• Introduced: 2/10/11
• Refer: 3/1/11
• Report Pass: 4/4/11

Caption

Relating to state actions necessary to maximize federal funding for certain transportation projects and activities in this state.

Impact

The bill significantly impacts how transportation planning is conducted in Texas by encouraging cooperation between state and local planning entities. It outlines the necessity for the Texas Department of Transportation to engage with local transportation planning bodies in pursuing federal funding. This collaboration is meant to enhance the allocation of federal resources towards eligible projects, including those that qualify for programs like the scenic byways initiative. As a result, localities can better leverage available federal funds for their transportation needs, potentially leading to improved infrastructure and services.

Summary

House Bill 1276 is aimed at enhancing Texas' ability to secure federal funding for transportation projects by amending the Transportation Code. The bill mandates the inclusion of a component in transportation planning that evaluates potential federal funding opportunities across all transportation modes. This proactive approach ensures that the state can identify and act on opportunities to obtain federal grants, which could significantly boost funding for various transportation improvements within Texas.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding HB 1276 is its emphasis on establishing uniform hazardous materials transportation standards as a part of broader transportation planning efforts. This aspect may raise concerns among local governments and businesses involved in transporting hazardous materials, as these standards could impose additional regulatory requirements. Furthermore, while the bill positions itself as a means to secure more funding, some stakeholders might worry about the adequacy of oversight and the division of responsibilities between state and local entities in the implementation of projects financed through federal grants.