SECOND REGULAR SESSION
SENATE BILL NO. 544
90TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY
INTRODUCED BY SENATOR STAPLES.
Pre-filed December 1, 1999, and 1,000 copies ordered printed.
TERRY L. SPIELER, Secretary.
2462S.01I
AN ACT
To amend chapter 620, RSMo, by adding thereto one new section relating to highway enhancement for the purposes of economic development.
Section A. Chapter 620, RSMo, is amended by adding thereto one new section, to be known as section 620.1550, to read as follows:
620.1550. 1. There is hereby established within the department of economic development the "Highway and Transportation Development Commission". The commission is established to aid in the promotion and enhancement of Missouri's highway and transportation system. The commission shall focus its efforts on issues related to highways, transportation and how they relate to the economic development of this state.
2. The commission shall consist of five members who shall be registered voters and appointed by the governor, with the advice and consent of the senate. No two appointees shall reside in the same congressional district.
3. Of the initial members, one shall be appointed for a one year term, two for a term of two years and two for a term of three years. Subsequent appointments shall be for three years. Any vacancy on the commission shall be filled for the unexpired term.
4. The commission shall elect one of its members to serve as chairperson of the commission, and may elect other officers and establish such committees as deemed necessary.
5. Each member of the commission shall serve without compensation but shall be reimbursed for actual and necessary expenses incurred in the performance of his or her duties.
6. The commission shall exercise its powers and duties independently of the department of economic development, except that budgetary, procurement, accounting and other related management functions shall be performed by the department of economic development.
7. The powers and duties of the highway and transportation development commission shall include, but not be limited to, the following:
(1) To study Missouri's needs regarding highways and transportation;
(2) To review the current funding mechanisms that are used to provide for Missouri's highway and transportation system;
(3) To study alternative funding sources that might be used to develop and promote Missouri's highway and transportation system;
(4) To hold public hearings to elicit the views of the public regarding Missouri's present and future highway needs;
(5) Determine from its studies and analysis the need for changes in existing law;
(6) To study the interstate highway system and its impact upon Missouri's economic development;
(7) To consult with appropriate state agencies, commissions, boards and public and private agencies to develop an economic development plan which optimally utilizes Missouri's highway system; and
(8) To perform any other functions or duties consistent with the provisions of this section or otherwise required by law.
8. The highway and transportation development commission shall submit an annual report of its activities to the president pro tem of the senate, the speaker of the house of representatives and the governor before January thirty-first of each year.