Texas Lawmakers Get Update on Transportation Fund

Members of the House Appropriations and Transportation Committees are holding hearings

State lawmakers will hear from officials and experts on the future of transportation funding in Texas.

Members of the House Appropriations and Transportation Committees are holding hearings to get a preview of the problems they'll face when the Legislature meets again next year.

Lawmakers fund Texas highways with a combination of federal money, fuel taxes, government bonds and contracts with private companies. But lawmakers have not raised fuel taxes since 1993 and more fuel efficient vehicles means revenues are not keeping up with the need for roads and bridges. Privately-operated toll roads have also become unpopular.

The testimony on Monday will update legislators on the transportation budget and experts will offer recommendations on fixing the funding shortfall and what changes in federal transportation laws mean for Texas.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
Contact Us