House Bill No. [insert number] establishes the Louisiana Highway Construction Authority by enacting Part IX of Chapter 2 of Title 49 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes. The bill outlines the legislative intent to enhance the maintenance, preservation, rehabilitation, restoration, and improvement of state highways and bridges. It defines the "Authority" as the Louisiana Highway Construction Authority and grants it distinct powers, duties, and responsibilities aimed at improving transportation planning for public needs. Additionally, the bill mandates the creation of personnel to support the Authority's mission and requires the Authority to seek funding for transportation projects.
Furthermore, the bill stipulates that the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) must collaborate with the Authority on all transportation-related projects and plans. The Act will take effect upon the governor's signature or after the expiration of the time for bills to become law without the governor's signature. If vetoed and later approved by the legislature, the Act will become effective the day after such approval.