Bill > HB4576

This bill makes several modifications to laws governing metropolitan transit authorities, specifically those with principal municipalities having populations under 320,000. First, it adjusts tax exemptions for compressed and liquefied natural gas refueling at transit authority facilities, allowing exemptions for certain motor vehicles. Second, it changes fare-setting procedures, removing a previous date restriction and allowing immediate fare changes with a 60-day notice period subject to potential metropolitan planning organization disapproval. Third, the bill introduces new rules for selecting and retaining insurance brokers for these transit authorities, requiring transparent disclosure of business relationships, prohibiting additional remuneration beyond board-paid fees, and establishing potential disciplinary actions for violations. Fourth, the bill modifies board member service calculations by excluding certain interim appointment periods and shortened terms from length-of-service determinations. The bill will take effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds vote in the legislature, otherwise becoming effective on September 1, 2025. These changes aim to provide more flexibility and transparency in the operations of smaller metropolitan transit authorities in Texas.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB4576