The Local Option Transportation Act (HB 9 / CSSB 855), the region’s highest priority bill this session, was passed to engrossment in the Senate last Wednesday and will be up for third reading and final senate passage Tuesday. Fifteen amendments were attached to the bill during second reading. Counties in three regions were added to the bill–Corpus Christi, the Valley and Waco. A provision was added saying the bill does not take effect unless the Legislature and voters approve a constitutional amendment limiting diversions from the state highway fund. In effect, local option authority is now linked to passage of SJR 9 in addition to SJR 52. Assuming CSSB 855 passes the senate on third reading Tuesday, hearing in House Transportation will be on April 21 at the earliest or more likely on April 28. May 11 is the last day for bills to be reported from House committees.