H.3566 would eliminate the seven member Department of Transportation (DOT) Commission which currently sets policy for the DOT. In place of this commission controlled by the legislature, the bill would vest DOT policy decisions in the hands of the Secretary of Transportation who is appointed by the Governor.
This is an excellent reform that would help restore accountability to the DOT. The current system of legislative control leaves citizens unsure of who they should take concerns over DOT decisions too, and incentivizes DOT policies that favor local interests over the interests of the entire state. In contrast, vesting full DOT governing authority to an official appointed by the executive lets citizens know exactly who they should take their concerns to: the Governor. Establishing a clear line of accountability for the DOT would go a long way towards ensuring that maintenance work receives its proper attention, and that each county receives its appropriate share of DOT resources.