Texas Senate Bill SB184

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

• Filed: 11/17/14

Caption

Relating to the state highway fund.

Impact

If enacted, SB184 would significantly impact how resources within the state highway fund are allocated. The changes would facilitate specific uses of the fund, primarily focusing on the enhancement of the state highway infrastructure. Furthermore, the bill encourages investments in both public and private transportation facilities, potentially broadening the scope of projects that can receive financial support, thereby fostering increased investment in Texas's transportation capabilities.

Summary

SB184 is legislation aimed at amending existing laws regarding the utilization of the state highway fund in Texas. The bill involves revisions to multiple sections of the Transportation Code, with the primary goal of clarifying and expanding permissible uses of funds allocated to the state highway system. Notably, the bill allows for the state highway fund to be used not only for the improvement of the state highway system but also for mitigating adverse environmental impacts resulting from highway construction and maintenance.

Contention

There are points of contention surrounding the bill, particularly regarding its implications for environmental considerations associated with highway projects. While proponents argue that the flexibility offered by the bill is vital for addressing urgent infrastructure needs, critics may express concerns over the potential prioritization of development over environmental protection. The repeal of prior provisions related to the use of funds might also raise alarms among various stakeholders regarding oversight and environmental standards in highway construction and maintenance practices.