This bill amends the process for electing the chair and vice-chair of the Joint Transportation Committee and provides further duties for the committee. The bill also outlines the process for calling special meetings and the decision-making process of the committee. The bill also amends the duties of the Joint Transportation Committee, including reviewing and considering the long-range plan of the transportation department, reviewing and considering the transportation department's annual fund allocation plan and budget requests, and issuing a report comparing the transportation department's actual performance to the original plan for the preceding fiscal year. The committee may also recommend necessary funding for future transportation department budgets and may hold public hearings and file reports of its findings and recommendations with the Legislature and the Governor.

Additionally, SB233 prioritizes certain transportation projects. Priority should be given to projects that have implications on the operation of public safety and first responder vehicles, projects in a location with an independent local assessment, and projects that provide a county with its first four-lane access to an interstate. The bill will become effective on the first day of the third month following its passage and approval by the Governor or its otherwise becoming law.

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