BILL ANALYSIS

H.B. 2222

By: Canales

Transportation

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The 2030 Committee, which was established in 2008, conducted a study to develop a range of future transportation and infrastructure goals in Texas and calculated the transportation funding necessary to achieve those goals. The committee released two reports, one in 2009 and one in 2011, which are broadly viewed as an unbiased assessment of Texas' transportation needs and reflect the impact of a variety of different investment strategies. These reports have served as the basis for significant legislation, voter-approved initiatives, increased transportation funding, and improved long-range planning. Since the 2011 report was completed, changes in economic, technological, and demographic factors have necessitated an updated analysis looking ahead to 2045. H.B. 2222 seeks to prepare Texas for future transportation needs by providing for a new study that identifies those needs, the associated costs, and the resulting benefits of meeting the needs.

CRIMINAL JUSTICE IMPACT

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly create a criminal offense, increase the punishment for an existing criminal offense or category of offenses, or change the eligibility of a person for community supervision, parole, or mandatory supervision.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency, or institution.

ANALYSIS

H.B. 2222 requires the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), in consultation with the Texas A&M Transportation Institute, to conduct a study on the state's projected transportation needs, costs, and the resulting benefits of meeting those needs for the year 2045. The bill sets out the required components of the study and requires the Texas Transportation Commission to appoint a committee composed of experienced and respected business and community leaders in Texas to provide guidance and direction to TxDOT and the Texas A&M Transportation Institute for purposes of conducting the study. The bill requires TxDOT to submit a report to the legislature that includes the results of the study and any associated recommendations not later than December 1, 2022. The bill's provisions expire January 1, 2023.

EFFECTIVE DATE

On passage, or, if the bill does not receive the necessary vote, September 1, 2021.