HBA-DMH S.J.R. 12 77(R)    BILL ANALYSIS


Office of House Bill AnalysisS.J.R. 12
By: Shapiro
Transportation
4/19/2001
Engrossed



BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE 

Currently, the state constitution prevents the state from contributing a
portion of the cost of a toll project without repayment. Many toll projects
are not built because the projects fail to generate enough revenue to pay
for associated costs. The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT),
acting on behalf of the state, cannot fund needed projects in a timely
manner because necessary funding is not available. As proposed, Senate
Joint Resolution 12 requires the submission to the voters of a
constitutional amendment authorizing TxDOT to expend, grant, or loan money
for turnpikes, toll roads, and toll bridges. 

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

It is the opinion of the Office of House Bill Analysis that this resolution
does not expressly delegate any additional rulemaking authority to a state
officer, department, agency, or institution. 

ANALYSIS

Senate Joint Resolution 12 amends the Texas Constitution to provide that
the legislature may authorize the Texas Department of Transportation to
expend, grant, or loan money, from any source available, for the
acquisition, construction, maintenance, or operation of turnpikes, toll
roads, and toll bridges.  

FOR ELECTION

This proposed constitutional amendment shall be submitted to the voters at
an election to be held November 6, 2001.