Bill > HB5391

This bill amends the Texas Transportation Code to expand the factors the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) must consider when developing transportation projects. In addition to existing considerations like safety, durability, environmental impact, and community economy, the bill now requires TxDOT to evaluate alternative designs proposed by local governing bodies (municipalities, counties, or metropolitan planning organizations), and to consider the negative impacts from previous transportation projects. The bill mandates that TxDOT review these alternative designs through a process similar to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) review. However, TxDOT can reject an alternative design if it determines the proposal is frivolous, unreasonable, or deliberately intended to delay the project. These new requirements only apply to transportation projects subject to NEPA review, and the bill will take effect on September 1, 2025. The goal appears to be increasing local community input and ensuring that transportation projects more comprehensively consider local perspectives and potential community impacts.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB5391