Senate committee advances bill requiring DOT to report on efficiency-review implementation

Senate Bill 542 was advanced by the Senate Transportation Committee after sponsors said it will increase transparency as the Department of Transportation implements recommendations from a recent efficiency review. Senator Reid introduced the bill and said it reflects the Highway Commission Review and Advisory Subcommittee’s work and recommended steps for implementation.

"This bill was recommended by the highway commission review and advisory subcommittee," Senator Reid said, and he noted the department supports the legislation and had sent Director Laurie Tudor to answer questions. Laurie Tudor, who identified herself as director of the Department of Transportation, told the committee the efficiency study compiled reforms the department had already begun implementing and that the bill would provide "transparency and accountability" as the agency moves forward.

Key provisions described to the committee require the department to provide progress reports toward a final recommendation report, submit implementation contracts that cost more than $50,000 to the subcommittee for review, and allow the subcommittee to provide time for public comment on proposed rules and contracts related to implementation. Proponents said the measures are intended to keep the Legislature informed and to support collaborative, continuous improvement.

Senator Chesterfield moved to advance the bill and Senator Hill seconded; the committee took a voice vote and recorded the measure as advanced. Committee members praised Director Tudor’s participation in the efficiency review during brief remarks. The committee then moved on to other agenda items.