Texas Senate Bill SB493

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to the sunset review of regional mobility authorities.

Impact

The implementation of SB493 has significant implications for regional mobility authorities in Texas. By bringing these authorities under the Texas Sunset Act's review process, the bill allows for an evaluation of their performance, governance, and public accountability. This review could potentially lead to the dissolution of authorities that do not demonstrate adequate performance or fiscal responsibility. As such, the bill aims to ensure taxpayers are receiving value for the operations conducted by these entities, contributing to better overall management of transportation resources.

Summary

SB493 is an act related to the sunset review of regional mobility authorities in Texas. The bill amends the Transportation Code by adding Section 370.040, which stipulates that all authorities under the purview of this legislation are subject to review as if they were state agencies, under the Texas Sunset Act. If the authorities are not continued in existence following this review, they will be abolished, and the relevant chapter will expire on September 1, 2019. This provision creates a framework for periodic oversight of the operational effectiveness and necessity of the regional mobility authorities.

Contention

Discussion around SB493 may bring forth points of contention regarding the degree of government oversight required for regional mobility authorities. Proponents argue that the sunset review mechanism fosters transparency and efficiency, ensuring that only effective authorities continue to receive funding and support. On the other hand, critics might claim that such oversight could undermine the autonomy of these authorities and create bureaucratic hurdles to local governance and decision-making. The balance between effective oversight and local control is likely to be a central theme in discussions surrounding the bill.