Texas House Bill HB2173

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to a report by the Texas Department of Transportation and the Legislative Budget Board on high-speed rail projects.

Impact

The bill stipulates that any state senator or representative may request a report on a specified high-speed rail project. The report must include an examination of whether the project serves a public use according to the Texas Constitution, an analysis of projected ridership and its sufficiency to cover operational costs, and assessments of how these projects might affect local and state transportation expenses. Public input will be sought through mandatory public hearings, ensuring community engagement in the evaluation process of such projects.

Summary

House Bill 2173 mandates that the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and the Legislative Budget Board collaborate to produce a report concerning proposed high-speed rail projects within the state. This bill defines high-speed rail as intercity passenger rail service capable of reaching speeds of at least 110 miles per hour. The intended outcome is to assess the viability of such projects in terms of public utility, projected ridership, financial implications for local and state transportation initiatives, and potential impacts on community land values.

Contention

One significant aspect of HB 2173 involves concerns regarding the potential use of eminent domain for high-speed rail projects. The bill allows parties involved in legal actions surrounding eminent domain to introduce the results of the TxDOT report in their cases, potentially influencing judicial outcomes based on the assessment of public use. Critics of the bill may argue that it does not sufficiently protect the rights of property owners or address their concerns regarding land usage and value depreciation caused by the rail projects. These issues could lead to a contentious debate among stakeholders, including property owners, local governments, and transportation advocates.