Bill > S1867

This bill proposes changes to the composition of the board of directors for the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT), which is the state agency responsible for transportation infrastructure and services. Currently, the board is governed by Section 2 of Chapter 6C of the General Laws. This bill would amend that section to specify that the board will consist of 8 members, each serving a 4-year term. The Governor would appoint 7 of these members, with specific qualifications required for several of them: 3 must have experience in public or private finance and management, 1 in public policy, 1 in transportation planning and policy, and 1 must be a registered civil engineer with at least 10 years of experience. The Secretary of Transportation would serve as an ex-officio member, meaning they hold the position automatically due to their role as Secretary. Additionally, the Mayor of Boston would appoint 1 member with experience in transportation planning and policy. The Governor would also designate a chairperson from the appointed members, excluding the ex-officio member, and the board would elect a vice-chairperson annually. The bill also includes provisions regarding political party representation on the board, compensation (directors serve without pay but can be reimbursed for expenses up to $3,000 annually), filling vacancies, reappointment eligibility, and removal of directors for cause by the appointing authority. This act would take effect immediately upon passage.