Texas Senate Bill SB891

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to a prohibition on converting state highway lanes to tolled or other types of managed lanes.

Impact

The implications of SB891 are significant for the state's transportation policy, as it preserves the non-toll status of certain highways. This restriction aims to maintain free access to these roadways, potentially affecting traffic patterns and funding methods for highway maintenance and expansion. Supporters of the bill argue that it protects the interests of commuters and prevents the state from monetizing essential infrastructure indiscriminately. Opponents may contend that this restriction could limit flexibility in managing highway congestion and financing infrastructure improvements.

Summary

Senate Bill 891 aims to prohibit the conversion of non-tolled lanes on state highways into tolled or managed lanes. The bill amends various sections of the Transportation Code to establish limitations on the operations and transfers of unrestricted lanes. Specifically, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) would not be able to operate or delegate the management of any unrestricted lane as a managed lane, ensuring that existing non-tolled highways maintain their status without being monetized through tolling schemes.

Contention

Discussions surrounding SB891 could involve debates on the balance between free access to public highways and the necessity of tolls for funding road maintenance. Proponents may argue that without the possibility of converting lanes to tolls, TxDOT may face funding challenges in operating and upgrading highways effectively. In contrast, opponents may express concern that such funding models may lead to a lack of maintenance and investment in highway infrastructure under existing financial constraints.