MDOT:  COMMUNITY BENEFITS ASSISTANCE

House Bill 6128

Sponsor:  Rep. Rashida Tlaib

Committee:  Transportation

Complete to5-10-10

A SUMMARY OF HOUSEBILL 6128 AS INTRODUCED5-4-10

The bill would require the Michigan Department of Transportation to help communities affected by an international crossing project to enter into community benefits agreements with contractors and developers implementing the international crossing.  The bill is an amendment to Public Act 286 of 1964, the act under which the State Transportation Commission and the Department of Transportation are organized.

The term "community benefits agreement" refers to a private contract between a contractor or developer and representatives of communities, including labor, environmental, and faith-based organizations that implements benefits to the community to mitigate the negative impacts of the proposed development.  Such benefits could include replacement of community resources displaced by the project, job training facilities, and modifications or remedies for structures or equipment affected by the development.

Specifically, the bill requires the state transportation department to provide, wherever possible, technical support, advice, and resources to assist community representatives.  This would apply in cases where construction has not yet begun or where it has begun and is continuing as of the effective date of the bill.

MCL 247.806c

FISCAL IMPACT:

The bill would establish a new mandate for the Michigan Department of Transportation to provide technical support, advice, and resources to assist certain communities with regard to the community benefits agreements with contractors and developers.  However the mandate is qualified, "wherever possible," and is limited to communities affected by an international crossing project where construction has not begun or is in process at the time of the bill's enactment.

 

The fiscal impact on the state is indeterminate.  There is no apparent fiscal impact on local units of government.

                                                                                           Legislative Analyst:   Chris Couch

                                                                                                   Fiscal Analyst:   William E. Hamilton

■ This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan House staff for use by House members in their deliberations, and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.