Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1138

Filed
 
Out of Senate Committee
4/26/11  
Introduced
3/3/11  
Voted on by Senate
5/3/11  
Refer
3/16/11  
Out of House Committee
5/21/11  
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to design-build contracts and comprehensive development agreements of regional mobility authorities.

Impact

The bill amends Section 370.305 of the Transportation Code, providing regional mobility authorities with clearer guidelines for entering into comprehensive development agreements. One of the notable changes is the introduction of a new subchapter dedicated to design-build contracts, which outlines the definitions, scope, methods, and conditions under which these contracts can be utilized. This legislation is expected to centralize various functions, reduce delays, and offer a structured approach to project management and execution in the transportation sector.

Summary

SB1138 is an act that relates to design-build contracts and comprehensive development agreements specifically for regional mobility authorities in Texas. The bill aims to enhance the efficiency of transportation project delivery by allowing authorities to enter into contracts with private entities that cover both design and construction services. This design-build method allows for increased accountability and can potentially expedite project timelines, thereby addressing the ever-growing transportation needs of the state.

Contention

Nevertheless, the bill has sparked some debate among stakeholders regarding the potential implications of public-private partnerships in transportation projects. Critics express concerns about the reduced oversight and possible prioritization of profit over public interest, especially in instances where private entities might retain rights over revenue generation or project operation, which is explicitly limited in SB1138. The bill restricts design-build contracts from granting private entities substantial interests in the projects, aiming to preserve public control and accountability, which some stakeholders argue may still be insufficient.

Companion Bills

TX HB2574

Identical Relating to the authority of regional mobility authorities to enter into comprehensive development agreements.

Previously Filed As

TX SB1864

Relating to the awarding of contracts by the Texas Department of Transportation to private sector providers.

TX SB1608

Relating to operating a motor vehicle without a driver's license or financial responsibility; creating a penalty.

TX SB730

Relating to the conversion of a nontolled state highway or segment of the state highway system to a toll project.

TX SB1104

Relating to the operation, powers, and duties of ship channel districts.

TX SB1422

Relating to coordinated county transportation authorities; creating an offense.

TX SB9

Relating to homeland security; providing penalties.

TX HB2469

Relating to a memorial sign program for victims of motorcycle accidents.

TX HB3510

Relating to the regulation of the towing, booting, and storage of vehicles.

Similar Bills

TX HB1050

Relating to purchasing and other contracts by governmental entities.

TX HB28

Relating to the authority of the Texas Department of Transportation to enter into availability payment agreements for the design, development, financing, construction, maintenance, or operation of a highway project.

TX HB3650

Relating to the authority of the Texas Department of Transportation to enter into availability payment agreements for the design, development, financing, construction, maintenance, or operation of a highway project.

TX HB628

Relating to contracts by governmental entities and related professional services and to public works performance and payment bonds.

TX HB3203

Relating to design-build procedures for certain civil works projects.

TX HB2939

Relating to the deduction of certain officers' compensation as a cost of goods sold for purposes of the franchise tax.

VA HB2041

Speed safety cameras; placement and operation.

TX SB897

Relating to the offenses of interference with public duties, required obedience to the order or direction of a police officer, and assault, certain unsuccessful prosecutions therefor, and related civil liability of a governmental unit.