This bill amends the existing laws regarding town highway agents by modifying their number, selection process, and term lengths. It introduces new provisions that allow towns to elect one or more highway agents, also referred to as road agents, for a term of one year, unless a majority vote decides otherwise. The bill also allows towns to change the number of highway agents, their method of selection (either elected or appointed by selectmen), and the length of their terms (1, 2, or 3 years) through a majority vote at annual town meetings. The previous requirement for a "major" vote has been changed to a "majority" vote, and the process for making these changes has been clarified.

Additionally, the bill provides towns with the option to appoint an expert highway agent, who would perform the same duties as an elected highway agent, and allows towns to rescind this authorization if they choose. The language specifies that the expert agent serves at the pleasure of the selectmen and outlines the voting process for adopting or rescinding this position. The bill also repeals the previous statute regarding highway agents in large towns and clarifies that the amendments will not affect the current number, selection method, or terms of existing highway agents unless changed by local vote. The act will take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 231:62, 669:17, 231:62-b
As Amended by the House: 231:62, 669:17, 231:64, 231:62-b
HB1213 text: 231:62, 669:17