SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5028

BYSenators Talmadge and Moore

Reorganizing the department of transportation.

Senate Committee on Governmental Operations

Senate Hearing Date(s):January 27, 1987

Senate Staff:Barbara Howard (786-7410); Eugene Green (786-7405)

AS OF JANUARY 22, 1987

BACKGROUND:

The Department of Transportation is the largest state agency headed by an independent commission with a director not appointed by the Governor.  One of the recommendations most frequently advanced for governmental reorganization is to strengthen the line of authority and accountability to the chief executive.

SUMMARY:

Appointment of the Secretary of Transportation is transferred to the Governor from the Transportation Commission.  In turn, the Commission becomes an advisory body for the Secretary and the Department.

All of the major policy responsibilities of the Department -- including programming, budgeting, construction and maintenance, and managing the state ferry system -- are transferred to the Secretary from the Commission.

Compensation of members of the Commission is revised from a salary recommended by the State Committee on Agency Officials' Salaries to actual necessary expenses for travel and performance of duty.  The reorganization does not affect the rights, liabilities and obligations of the Department.

Fiscal Note:      none requested

Effective Date:July 1, 1987