Bill > H0053

This bill authorizes Florida to join the Southern Rail Commission (SRC), a multistate interstate compact focused on studying and developing passenger rail transit services along the Gulf Coast. The bill creates a new section of Florida statutes that enables the Governor to execute a compact with Alabama, Louisiana, and Mississippi to establish a joint agency (the SRC) dedicated to exploring the feasibility of rapid rail transit between these states. The commission will consist of each state's governor, representatives from state transportation departments, and five citizen appointees from each state, who will serve four-year terms without compensation but with reimbursement for expenses. The commission's primary responsibilities include conducting studies, holding hearings, seeking funding, cooperating with public and private groups, and developing plans to promote interstate passenger rail services. The compact allows participating states to voluntarily contribute funds to the commission's operations, does not obligate any state to make specific appropriations, and can be withdrawn by any state with six months' notice. The bill is motivated by the potential economic and transportation benefits of passenger rail, including enhanced regional connectivity, emergency evacuation capabilities, reduced highway congestion, and economic development opportunities. The compact will become effective after ratification by the specified states and congressional approval, with an implementation date of July 1, 2026.

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https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2026/53