House Bill No. 5603 mandates the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) to enhance transparency regarding service contracts related to highway construction projects. The bill amends Section 223.0042 of the Transportation Code to require TxDOT to publish detailed information about each awarded contract on its website. This includes specifics such as the contract number, primary firm, total amount, execution and termination dates, type of contract, scope of services, and any notifications related to the contract. Additionally, the department is required to update this information at least weekly.

Furthermore, the bill introduces new requirements under Section 223.041, which stipulates that if a work authorization is issued for an engineering-related services contract, TxDOT must notify the contractor in writing at least 90 days prior to any changes in the contract's schedule or deliverables. The department must also report this notification to key officials within three days and post it on their website within ten days. This legislation aims to improve accountability and communication between TxDOT and contractors, ensuring that all parties are informed of significant changes in a timely manner. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Transportation Code 223.0042, Transportation Code 223.041 (Transportation Code 223)