FIFTY-SEVENTH WYOMING LEGISLATURE

APPROVED INTERIM COMMITTEE STUDIES

2004 INTERIM

JOINT TRANSPORTATION, HIGHWAYS AND MILITARY AFFAIRS INTERIM COMMITTEE

Initial Approved Budget: $20,000

Topic #1:            WyDOT issues.

(a)      Interstate-80.  Traffic volume, especially truck traffic, has increased significantly and is projected to continue increasing rapidly.  DOT may need additional statutory authority to regulate traffic during weather and other emergencies, in order to take full advantage of the new federally-funded information signs.

Note: As part of this study, Management Council directed that the Committee study lower speed limits for large motor vehicles for the purpose of improving public safety on Interstate 80.

(b)      Graduated driver's licenses/driver's education.  In light of legislator and public observation that 2004HB0195 was  a worthy concept that needed improvement and coordination with driver's education, the committee will study an improved GDL bill and methods/funding to increase the availability of driver's education.

(c)      Highway Patrol.  The committee will study the number of troopers required, in light of increased enforcement needs, and their geographical distribution.

(d)      Uninsured motorists.  Concerns have been raised about the number of people whose insurance is cancelled for non-payment of premium but who continue to drive.  The committee will study methods to require insurers to report cancellations to WyDOT and county treasurers for the purpose of suspending vehicle registration.

Note: As part of this study, Management Council directed that the Committee include a review of minimum levels of insurance.

(e)      Multi-lane highways.  The committee will revisit recommendations and funding sources, in light of federal highway act reauthorization, for improving major two-lane highways in the state to multi-lane configuration.

Topic #2:            Military Department.

This is a new assignment for this committee.  The committee will conduct a general study of the status and concerns of the department, with particular focus on improving support for activated national guard members.

Note: As part of this study, Management Council directed that the Committee include the topic of federal funding and planning for homeland security and that the committee report its findings to the Joint Appropriations Interim Committee.

Topic #3:                        Veterans' Commission.

This is also a new subject area for the committee.  The committee will conduct a general study of the status and concerns of the commission, including a complete review of Title 19, Chapter 14 and other veteran-specific statutes. Note: at the request of Management Council, the committee will consider the concerns of other veterans' groups.