Bill Caption

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Department of Transportation; authorizing an increase in rates charged for the use of state aircraft to provide for the acquisition of replacement aircraft.

Fiscal Notes

No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.

Bill Analysis

SB 312 would make many procedural changes to the laws which control the Department of Transportation. In addition, this bill would postpone sunset review to 2029; require training for members of the Transportation Commission before full duties can be assumed; require more stringent evaluation of transportation projects, including the impact on current and future roads; and would require more reports related to department activities to be publicly available on the department’s website. SB 312 would also consolidate the State Aircraft Pooling Board into the Department of Transportation and repeal provisions requiring citizens to report certain vehicle accidents to the department.

Vote Recommendation Notes

This bill supports the principle of limited government by fostering transparency through the availability of reports, consolidating governmental bodies, and encouraging accountability through higher evaluation standards for transportation projects. For these reasons, we support SB 312.