Proposes a constitutional amendment dissolving the authority of the highways and transportation commission and granting authority to the department of transportation

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Louis Riggs

The bill would abolish the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission and transfer its authority, powers, and duties to the Missouri Department of Transportation.

Referred: Emerging Issues(H)

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Overview

HJR 134 (Missouri, 2026) proposes a constitutional amendment that would dissolve the current authority of the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission (HTC) and transfer or grant its authority to the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT). The measure is a Joint Resolution, meaning it would require approval by the Missouri General Assembly and, if enacted, likely voter ratification to amend the state constitution.

Purpose and Intent

The core aim is to reorganize the governance and oversight of transportation policy and project delivery in Missouri.

By dissolving the Highway and Transportation Commission, the bill seeks to concentrate or reallocate decision-making authority related to highways, transportation planning, maintenance, funding, and related programs to MoDOT.

Key Provisions and Changes

Abolishment of HTC Authority: The constitutional authority and powers currently vested in the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission would be terminated or superseded.

Transfer of Authority to MoDOT: The bill envisions transferring the powers, duties, and responsibilities of the HTC to the Missouri Department of Transportation. This could include:

Strategic planning for state highways and major transportation initiatives
Allocation and management of funding for transportation projects
Oversight of construction, maintenance, and operation of transportation infrastructure
Administrative rulemaking and program administration related to highways and transportation

Constitutional Amendment: As a proposed change to the state constitution, passage would require formal amendments through the legislative process and subsequent voter approval.

Who or What Would Be Affected

Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT): Primary recipient of transferred authority and responsibilities.

Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission (HTC): Its current powers and duties would be dissolved or replaced; the commissioners' roles would be affected or eliminated.

Statewide Transportation Programs: Planning, funding allocations, project selection, and governance of highway and related transportation initiatives would be reorganized under MoDOT.

Taxpayers and Road Users: Potential changes in project prioritization, funding mechanisms, and governance transparency could impact highway maintenance, improvements, and related services.

Local and Regional Governments: Coordination mechanisms for transportation planning and infrastructure projects may shift under the MoDOT framework.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

Prefiled: December 5, 2025

Read First Time: January 7, 2026

Read Second Time: January 8, 2026

Referred: Emerging Issues(H) on May 15, 2026

Next Steps (if advanced): The measure would require passage by both chambers of the Missouri General Assembly and then voter ratification for constitutional amendment.

Notes

Sponsor: Co-sponsor Louis Riggs

As a constitutional proposal, even if approved by the General Assembly, final enactment depends on a statewide voter vote.

The summary reflects available bill text and action history; specific statutory implications, transition plans, and implementation timelines would be clarified in the final amended language and related fiscal notes if the bill progresses.