Last chance for DOT reform

The reform of the state Department of Transportation has yet to be meaningfully addressed by the state Senate, despite the compelling evidence for greater accountability and gubernatorial control. But the Senate will have "one more chance to get it right" when a DOT bill is reconsidered Tuesday, according to Sen. Larry Grooms, R-Bonneau. It should seize the opportunity.

Sen. Grooms, recently named chairman of the Senate Transportation Committee, said amendments will be offered to give the governor authority to appoint the agency's executive director and board, subject to the advice and consent of the Senate. Strengthening the governor's relationship to the DOT is essential to providing fiscal responsibility and ensuring that priority projects get priority treatment.

Earlier this session, the Senate rejected a reform bill advanced by a special committee chaired by Sen. Grooms and endorsed by the Transportation Committee. Instead, the Senate approved a bill that would actually increase legislative control over the agency under a special oversight committee.

By contrast, the reform plan endorsed by the House would give the governor the power to appoint the agency's executive director, though legislators would continue to elect highway commissioners.

The Senate action failed to acknowledge the shortcomings of the existing legislative-controlled system cited in an audit of the agency, including wasted millions of dollars, improperly awarded contracts, nepotism and favoritism in hiring.

Sen. Grooms credits Senate President Pro Tempore Glenn McConnell with reviving the reform effort, despite the threats of filibuster. Voters should pay careful attention to determine which senators refuse to acknowledge the necessity of making substantive changes in the way that DOT operates, as the debate resumes this week.

The case for reform is crystal clear, in view of the audit findings, the agency's problems with undertaking priority projects and the substandard conditions of state roads. The documented failures of DOT affect every motorist in South Carolina. They can't be allowed to continue.