The bill amends Sections 29-2-3 and 29-2-4 of the Code of Alabama 1975, focusing on the structure and responsibilities of the Joint Transportation Committee. Key changes include a new process for electing the chair and vice-chair, which will now rotate between House and Senate members, with the chair elected from House members and the vice-chair from Senate members. The chair and vice-chair will serve during the second and third years of each quadrennium, with the vice-chair ascending to chair in the fourth year. The bill also introduces provisions for special meetings, decision-making processes, and attendance requirements, stating that members absent from two meetings will forfeit their position. Additionally, the committee's duties are expanded to include reviewing the transportation department's long-range plans and budget requests, along with a requirement for annual performance reports, with the deadline for these reports extended from 40 to 70 days after the second quarterly meeting.

Furthermore, the bill SB233 introduces new provisions that prioritize public safety and infrastructure projects by emphasizing the need to consider the impact on public safety and first responder vehicles during project planning. It also prioritizes projects in areas with independent local assessments and those providing a county with its first four-lane access to an interstate. The act is set to take effect on the first day of the third month following its passage and approval by the Governor, or upon its otherwise becoming law, reflecting a commitment to improving transportation infrastructure while ensuring public safety considerations are prioritized.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 29-2-3, 29-2-4
Engrossed: 29-2-3, 29-2-4
Enrolled: 29-2-3, 29-2-4