Representative Johnson supports increased funding for transportation

State Representative Eric Johnson (D-Dallas) voted in favor of transportation funding measures, House Bill (HB) 1 and Senate Joint Resolution (SJR) 1.

“Texas has experienced dramatic population growth for years and our transportation infrastructure is feeling the strain,” said Representative Johnson. “If we wish to avoid crippling gridlock for our citizens and our economy, then we must invest in transportation infrastructure, and that is why I voted in favor of this legislation. The future of Texas depends on it.”

SJR 1 provides that the portion of revenue from oil and gas production taxes currently allocated to the Economic Stabilization Fund be split between the Economic Stabilization Fund and the State Highway Fund. Each fund will receive 50% of the revenue previously allocated to the Economic Stabilization Fund.

HB 1 provides that a minimum balance for the Economic Stabilization Fund will be set by a select committee made up of 5 House members and 5 Senators. That minimum balance could be increased or decreased by a resolution passed by a simple majority in both chambers.

House Bill 1 also requires the Texas Department of Transportation to identify $100 million in efficiency savings to be applied toward existing debt and provides for the study of transportation financing by a select committee over the interim. The bill also provides for equitable distribution of funds to ensure that all regions of Texas benefit from increased transportation funding.

Eric Johnson represents District 100, which includes parts of Dallas and Mesquite, in the Texas House of Representatives.