COVERITLIVE.COM

2:24

Michael Lindenberger/DMN - Welcome to your live coverage of the Texas House debate on the future of Texas Department of Transportation. Settle in and grab a cup of coffee: we'll be here a while.

The debate was scheduled to begin at 2 p..m., but apparently the clerks are still making copies of the 162 amendments filed for the bill, which is HB 300. We'll get started soon.

If you aren't watching live, you can do so by clicking here.

Meanwhile, keep this is mind: Whatever happens today, it ain't over till it's over. And that means the House will have its say today, and then the will get its say. And then the House will have another chance to argue with what the Senate has done. And by then, time will be tight.

So jump right in and tell us what you think.

3:36	[Comment From Guest] A suburban safety official emailed me that 14 sunset amendments woudl either outlaw or severely restrict red-light cameras. Police are concerned, since these cameras have saved lives and injuries. Based on the statistics I've seen, these are awful amendments.

3:51

Michael Lindenberger/DMN - The comment above, about red light cameras, comes from Rodger Jones, our editorial writer here at The News. I think he hits on something important -- the Sunset Bill, as complicated as it already was, is going to be a vehicle for dozens of other ambitions.

Texas Transportation Commission chairperson Deirdre Delisis said as much last week, when she the reform bill will turn out being a "Christmas tree." With 162+ amendments -- 14 of which apparently deal with red light cameras -- that's a conclusion it's hard to argue with.

3:59	[Comment From Guest] Red light cameras are nothing but revenue generators. Traffic engineering can correct most red light running issues

4:00	[Comment From guest] any company that has $1 billion in funding swings would have staff layoffs or comensurate hirings. TxDOT did not lay off in the downturn, did not contract out for help when they received over a billion in ARRA funds. that's a huge concern

4:00	[Comment From James] I have heard that they are trying to take the Quality Based Selection process out and replace it with going with the lowest fee for professional services. This will endanger the public in my opinion.

4:02	Michael Lindenberger/DMN - Thanks for the comments. We're still waiting for the debate to begin. Right now, the House is in the middle of a testy debate about expanding kindergarten.

4:09	[Comment From steve] Where can I go to view the hearings?

4:10	Michael Lindenberger/DMN - You can follow the hearings by clicking here. http://www.house.state.tx.us/fx/av/live/extlive80kchamber.ram

4:11	Michael Lindenberger/DMN - Not hearings, I should add. It's a House floor debate, and should begin any minute.

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