BILL ANALYSIS

Senate Research Center	S.B. 1034
85R5181 JRR-D	By: Perry
	Transportation
	3/24/2017
	As Filed

AUTHOR'S / SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT

Background and Purpose

� Stakeholders claim that an additional study is timely and needed, because the previous study took place over a decade ago. Further study could determine whether it is more effective for the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) to develop part or the entire corridor as an interstate or to continue with incremental enhancements.

� Investments have been made within the corridor to improve safety and mobility; however, there are still sections that need to be addressed. Further investigation and input is needed from the local communities to address these needs.

� Some areas along the corridor have seen notable population growth and are projected to continue to grow, thus putting more demands on the transportation system.

Key Points:

S.B. 1034 requires TxDOT to conduct a feasibility study on the costs and logistical matters associated with improvements that extend Interstate Highway (IH) 27 from its southern terminus to IH 20, from IH 20 to IH 10, and from IH 10 to the port of entry located in Laredo.

As proposed, S.B. 1034 amends current law relating to a study by the Texas Department of Transportation of the feasibility of certain improvements to Interstate Highway 27.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

This bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency.

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1. (a) Defines "improvement" and "port of entry."

(b) Requires the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) to conduct a study of the feasibility of and the costs and logistical matters associated with improvements that extend Interstate Highway 27 in certain places.

(c) Requires TxDOT, not later than January 1, 2019, to submit a report on the results of the study to the governor, lieutenant governor, speaker of the house of representatives, and the presiding officer of each standing committee of the legislature with jurisdiction over transportation matters.

(d) Provides that this Act expires August 31, 2019.

SECTION 2. Effective date: upon passage or September 1, 2017.