Bill Caption

Relating to the operation of state travel information centers by private and nonprofit entities.

Fiscal Notes

LBB notes: There will be an impact of $0 through the biennium ending August 31, 2015. TxDOT reports transferring operations for all 12 travel information centers to a local government, private, or nonprofit entity would save $3.5 million per fiscal year in State Highway Funds. If TxDOT continues to operate any travel information centers rather than transfer their operations, the amount of savings and reduction in full-time equivalents would decrease No fiscal implication to units of local government is anticipated.

Bill Analysis

Note:  SB 1017 is identical to HB 3423.  The House version of this bill was left pending in the transportation committee on 4-16-13.

Summary: This legislation would authorize TxDOT to enter into an agreement with a local government or private or nonprofit organization for the operation and maintenance of a travel information centers in Texas.  This bill would authorize the department to sell commercial advertising space unless such space would otherwise have a negative effect on the amount of federal highway dollars awarded to the state. Additionally this bill would authorize the sale of items for the purpose of advertising resources of Texas. 

Analysis:  Transferring operations to local governments or private businesses should save the State money in the long run and generate revenue from advertising and promoting Texas. TPPA supports private business and smaller government. VOTE yes on SB 1017.