Lawmakers are once again working to end a surcharge program they say is ineffective and unfair. But the program also provides millions of dollars to trauma centers across Texas.
Transportation
Reporting on roads, transit, infrastructure, and policy shaping travel and mobility across the state, from The Texas Tribune.
Defining the Transportation Debate
Before anything can be done on transportation funding, What constitutes a budget diversion? Is a fee increase the same thing as a tax hike? The debate over transportation funding next session could hinge on how
In Taking On Distracted Driving, Texas Cities Go in Different Directions
More cities in Texas are passing texting-and-driving bans, but some say such laws are ineffective and infringe on personal freedom.
A Trip Down the Fastest Highway in America
The newly opened stretch of State Highway 130 from Austin to Seguin has an 85 mph speed limit, the fastest in the country. Beyond the debate over whether it’s safe, what’s it like to drive?
Fee Hike Among Options for Raising Road Money
Two ideas are gaining momentum as Texas lawmakers consider ways to raise more money for road projects: raising the vehicle registration fee by $50 and dedicating the sales tax on car purchases to transportation.
Texas Highways, Heavy Trucks, and the Panama Canal
A possible boost in imports to Texas has prompted state officials to consider allowing heavier trucks on some of the state’s interstate highways.
Shelton Requests Criminal Investigation of Davis and NTTA
State Rep. Mark Shelton, R-Fort Worth, called for a criminal investigation into state Sen. Wendy Davis, D-Fort Worth, on Wednesday in the latest development in this increasingly bitter race for Davis’ Senate seat.
Study Says Inadequate Roads Cost Texans Billions
A study by a transportation research group suggests that issues with Texas roadways cost drivers $23 billion a year in lost time and vehicle damage.
A Boom on Texas Roads
Think older drivers might be a problem now? Wait for the baby boomers, who are reaching retirement age.
Faster Speed Limit May Drive Trucks Away From New Texas Toll Road
The 85 mph speed limit assigned to a new toll road opening in Central Texas is drawing plenty of interest, but it may not draw many truck drivers, according to an official with the Texas Motor Transportation Association.


