SB85 Summary

• Creates the Alabama Public Transportation Trust Fund in the State Treasury to fund activities that increase public transportation options across Alabama, maintained and administered by the Department of Economic and Community Affairs.

• Establishes the Alabama Public Transportation Trust Fund Advisory Committee with 13 members representing legislative bodies, senior services, disability organizations, regional councils, municipalities, counties, and public transportation users to advise on fund administration and awards.

• Requires ADECA to adopt rules, conduct annual independent audits, prepare annual performance reports to the Legislature and Governor, conduct statewide public transportation needs assessments every five years, and establish competitive grant award processes prioritizing disabled, elderly, and rural populations.

• Limits ADECA's annual administrative fee to 10 percent of total annual deposits and prohibits contracts with for-profit entities; all funded transportation systems must comply with Americans with Disabilities Act design standards.

• Authorizes not-for-profit organizations, municipalities, counties, and public transit authorities to apply for trust fund grants; becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and approval.