Texas Senate Bill SB1719

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 3/11/11
• Out of Senate Committee: 4/4/11
• Voted on by Senate: 4/7/11
• Refer: 3/23/11
• Out of House Committee: 5/12/11
• Report Pass: 4/4/11
• Voted on by House: 5/20/11
• Engrossed: 4/7/11
• Governor Action: 6/17/11
• Refer: 4/29/11
• Report Pass: 5/11/11
• Enrolled: 5/21/11
• Passed: 6/17/11

Caption

Relating to certain comprehensive development agreements of the Texas Department of Transportation.

Impact

The enactment of SB1719 will have implications for the way TxDOT manages its comprehensive development agreements. It reinforces the department's responsibility to honor previous commitments while embarking on new projects, thereby ensuring that stakeholders involved remain protected and that projects adhere to prescribed standards. This clarifying legislation is expected to improve the transparency of the development processes and may influence future transportation planning decisions in Texas.

Summary

Senate Bill 1719 addresses comprehensive development agreements specifically related to the Grand Parkway project (State Highway 99) by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). The bill clarifies that any agreements made by TxDOT for improving the Grand Parkway do not exempt the department from fulfilling its obligations under prior agreements related to the project. This is crucial for maintaining regulatory compliance and ensuring that the development and operational conditions stipulated in these earlier agreements are adhered to.

Contention

While the bill appears straightforward, it may encounter scrutiny from those concerned with the balance of power between state authority and local compliance. Questions may arise regarding how this mandate affects local jurisdictions involved in transportation projects, as well as the possible repercussions of non-compliance with previous agreements. Stakeholders may debate the effectiveness of such legislation in fostering state and local cooperation, especially considering the intricate nature of public-private partnerships in transportation.