Texas House Bill HB819

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to the authority of certain entities to enter into a comprehensive development agreement.

Impact

The modifications made by HB819 are significant for public-private partnerships in transportation projects within Texas. They establish a clearer procedural framework requiring local governance involvement through county commissioners' courts, which can enhance accountability and transparency in the decision-making process for large-scale developments. The bill's provisions will only apply to comprehensive development agreements made after its effective date, which means existing agreements will remain unaffected by these changes.

Summary

House Bill 819 relates to the authority of certain entities in Texas to enter into comprehensive development agreements. This bill amends sections of the Transportation Code, specifically requiring additional approvals and environmental clearances before such agreements can be made. One of the key components is that before entering into a comprehensive development agreement, entities must obtain environmental clearance and present a full financial plan that outlines methodology and cost proposals for the project. This aims to ensure that adequate planning and compliance with regulations are met before development begins.

Contention

While proponents of HB819 argue that the bill is a necessary step towards better governance and oversight in transportation projects, critics may raise concerns about the potential for additional bureaucratic delays. The requirement for local approvals could complicate the process for initiating projects, thereby stifling timely development in areas where rapid response to infrastructure needs is essential. Furthermore, the focus on environmental clearance might also be viewed as a double-edged sword: while ensuring environmental compliance is crucial, it could lead to extended timelines, impacting the overall efficiency of transportation project implementations.