Commission supports TxDOT overhaul

AUSTIN (KXAN) - The Sunset Commission , comprised of senators and representatives, voted almost unanimously to support an overhaul of the Texas Department of Transportation on Tuesday.

"It's an agency operating like it is in the 1920s," said Chair Rep. Carl Isett (R-Lubbock).

The Sunset staff made several key recommendations for the agency. They want a Legislative Oversight Committee to be appointed to oversee the agency both when the legislature is in and out of session. They also want more transparency within TxDOT as well as restrictions on TxDOT's lobbying capabilities. The aim is restore the public's faith in a state agency that has come under fire for tollroads, various road projects and discrepancies in the budget.

"They've had free rein to do whatever they want to do," said anti-tollroad activist Mel Borel. "They have abused legislation made years ago and imposed projects on the people of Texas."

When asked if TxDOT agreed with an oversight committee being appointed to oversee the agency, the spokesperson said they would follow whatever the legislature wanted.

"We look forward to working with the Legislature to implement policies they create," said Chris Lippincott.