Today members of the Senate Committee on Transportation and Homeland Security approved an amended Committee substitute bill that is considered a major victory for the Public's Right to know. The Freedom of Information Foundation of Texas and the Texas Association of Broadcasters initially opposed legislation which would have effectively prevented public access to an estimated 3 million accident records involving Texas roadways. Without this information, it would be virtually impossible to perform independent data analysis of dangerous roadways, specific accident prone areas, poor roadway engineering, motor carrier repeat violators, etc. After a week of negotiations involving the FOIFT, TAB, bill sponsor Senator John Carona's (R-Dallas) staff and representatives of the Texas Department of Transportation - a negotiated compromise was reached late yesterday afternoon. The amended committee substitute was approved today on a vote of 8 - 0 and now moves to be the full Texas Senate for approval. This bill must also be voted out of the Texas house.As always, your continued support and donations are appreciated which make it possible for us to continue working for you!
Posted by Keith Elkins, Executive Director at 9:52 AM 0 comments
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