Texas House Bill HB499

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

• Filed: 12/12/14

Caption

Relating to the public transportation advisory committee.

Impact

By reshaping the terms and appointment process of the public transportation advisory committee, HB 499 aims to enhance the effectiveness and continuity of public transportation policy in Texas. The provisions of the bill are designed to ensure that the committee remains stable while allowing for periodic updates to its membership, which can bring fresh perspectives and ideas to the table. The bill results in a clear structure for vacancies and appointments, which could improve organizational efficiency.

Summary

House Bill 499 focuses on the governance of the public transportation advisory committee in Texas. This bill amends Section 455.004(c) of the Transportation Code, adjusting the terms of committee members to have staggered six-year terms with specific expiration dates. The bill mandates that the governor, lieutenant governor, and speaker of the house will each appoint three members to the committee, ensuring a broader representation in decision-making regarding public transportation in the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 499 appears to be largely positive, as reflected in the unanimous support it garnered during the voting process—138 in favor and none against. Supporters view the bill as a necessary reform that will strengthen the public transportation advisory committee by creating a more structured and predictable appointment process, highlighting a commitment to the state's transportation needs.

Contention

Although there seems to be little public contention regarding HB 499, the focus on appointing committee members by state leadership did raise some concerns about representation. Some individuals may argue that such appointments could lead to a lack of regional diversity or may not reflect the views of grassroots stakeholders in the transportation sector. Nonetheless, the bill's provisions seek to balance clarity and efficiency in committee governance.