Senate Votes for "Transparent" TxDOT

The Texas Department of Transportation Sunset bill that got caught up in the backlog of legislation last session passed the Senate today.

Sen. Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa, D-McAllen, introduced the bill, and said it is designed to increase the transparency of the agency, from setting up a hotline to report fraud or abuse, to requiring the agency to develop a "public involvement" policy and come up with a better system to track complaints.

The bill also addresses commission member ethics — including rules surrounding campaign contributions, lobbying or business relationships with transportation-related industries. And it requires annual "cash flow" and other financial reporting to ensure the agency's fiscal health. 

“It will help ensure transparency, accountability and maintain public trust,” Hinojosa said.