6/4/07-A bill died in the House that would have given local governments more power in decisions about toll roads. The Senate previously approved it.
Sponsored by Rep. Mark Strama, D-Austin, HB1574 would have allowed local elected officials to vote before toll revenues from one road can be used on any other road or transportation project. Officials also would have been required to vote before toll projects can be sold to, or built by, private and/or foreign groups.
Another provision in the bill would have allowed local jurisdictions to recoup money they put into road projects that later became toll roads.

3/28/07-A bill in the House Transportation Committee would give local governments more power in decisions about toll roads. The Senate already approved it.
Sponsored by Rep. Mark Strama, D-Austin, HB1574 would allow local elected officials to vote before toll revenues from one road can be used on any other road or transportation project. Officials also would be required to vote before toll projects can be sold to, or built by, private and/or foreign groups.
Another provision in the bill would allow local jurisdictions to recoup money they put into road projects that later became toll roads.
For bill status, call (512) 463-2182. In Texas, call 1-877-824-7038.

2/16/07-Rep. Mark Strama, D-Austin, has filed a bill that would give local governments more power in decisions about toll roads.
HB1574 would allow local elected officials to vote before toll revenues from one road can be used on any other road or transportation project. Officials also would be required to vote before toll projects can be sold to, or built by, private and/or foreign groups.
Another provision in the bill would allow local jurisdictions to recoup money they put into road projects that later became toll roads.
For bill status, call (512) 463-2182. In Texas, call 1-877-824-7038.
An identical Senate bill - SB668 - is awaiting assignment to committee.