Article
On Monday, August 5, the Third Called Special Session of the 83rd Legislature came to a close after the Legislature passed two measures that address funding for transportation projects.
Senate Joint Resolution 1 provides that a portion of oil and gas severance tax revenues be directed to the State Highway Fund for the construction and maintenance of non-tolled roadways. These funds will provide about 1/4 of the additional revenue needed to fund and maintain the state's highway system. Unlike other forms of legislation, since SJR 1 is a constitutional amendment, it required a 2/3 vote of both the Senate and House, but was not required to be sent to the governor for signature or veto. It will, however, be sent to voters for approval and will appear on the November 2014 ballot.
The House and Senate also passed House Bill 1, which was signed by the governor on Wednesday. HB1 is enabling legislation for SJR 1 and requires the Department of Transportation to identify $100 million in cost savings before 2015. It also establishes legislative committees to study transportation funding options and to make recommendations on ways to fully fund transportation before the next regular legislative session.
For more information on any state matter, please contact my office by writing to P.O. Box 2910, Austin, TX 78768-2910 or by emailing me at larry.phillips@house.state.tx.us. My district office phone number is (903) 891-7297.
Gallery