Bill > HB5346

This bill establishes a new process for toll project entities in Texas to manage the cessation of tolls on transportation projects, providing clear guidelines for when and how toll roads can transition to being part of the state highway system. Specifically, the bill allows toll roads to become part of the state highway system without tolls once project acquisition and construction costs are paid and all related bonds are either fully paid or have sufficient funds set aside in a trust for their payment. The bill also creates a mechanism for toll project entities to extend tolling for five-year periods through voter approval, requiring an election in the project's territory or affected counties. To initiate a potential extension, the department must notify county commissioners courts at least nine months before the planned toll cessation date and work with them to schedule an election. If a five-year extension expires and no subsequent extension is approved by voters, the toll project automatically becomes part of the state highway system and will be maintained without tolls. The bill amends existing transportation code sections to incorporate these new provisions and provides for immediate effect if it receives a two-thirds vote in the legislature, otherwise taking effect on September 1, 2025.

Budget and Finance

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB5346