Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Transportation topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Committee Approves Framework for GDOT Rail Program; No Immediate State Funds Required
Summary
Senator Gooch said SB371 sets up a framework for a rail program under GDOT and allows the department to begin implementation work without obligating state funds until appropriations are passed; the committee approved a do-pass recommendation by voice vote.
Senate Bill 371, which establishes a framework for a rail program under the state Department of Transportation, was advanced by the committee on a do-pass recommendation.
Senator Gooch said the bill "sets up a, basically, a framework for a rail program under GDOT" and stressed that it "does not require the expenditure of any state funds until they're appropriated," although he said requirements for funding would likely arise later. He framed the bill as an effort to address freight logistics and to involve Class I rail partners in moving freight from ports to inland markets.
Representative Prince moved the do-pass recommendation and Chairman Hitchens seconded. The committee carried the motion by voice vote and the chair announced the motion passes. The transcript contains no roll-call tally for the vote.
Senate Resolution 19, related to a freight commission and noted in the meeting, was identified by the chair as having been moved from the transportation committee to the rules calendar.
