TRUST is the acronym for Transportation Revenues Used Strictly for Transportation. TRUST was formed in late 2005 as a project of Oklahomans for Safe Bridges & Roads, Inc., the non-profit organization that led the campaign to pass SQ 723. SQ 723 was a ballot initiative to raise the state fuel tax with new revenue dedicated toward infrastructure maintenance and improvement across Oklahoma. The measure was defeated by Oklahoma voters.
Following the defeat of SQ 723, it became evident that an advocacy organization dedicated to transportation funding was needed in order to help restore Oklahoma’s dilapidated transportation infrastructure. TRUST became that organization and began its advocacy efforts during the 2006 state legislative session.
TRUST mission statement
TRUST is a legislative advocacy coalition dedicated to restoring Oklahoma’s transportation infrastructure. We are committed to creating a culture with Oklahoma state government that values transportation as a key function and priority of state government.
TRUST principles
- All state transportation-related taxes and fees should be used strictly for transportation needs
- Protecting and growing dedicated funds for Oklahoma’s transportation system
- Educating legislative and executive branch policy makers and the general public on the importance of highway and bridge investment
- Supporting policy makers who are committed to transportation as a priority of state government
- Use of high-quality, lasting materials in constructing and maintaining highways and bridges
- Efficiency and accountability within the Oklahoma Legislature and Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT)
Building TRUST
It took decades for Oklahoma to produce one of the most neglected transportation systems in the United States. Over the past six years, former and current legislators and governors have made a tremendous commitment, with the backing and encouragement of TRUST, to reverse Oklahoma’s position, however it will take many additional years to reach the point where Oklahoma’s transportation infrastructure is the model for which other states strive to equal.
TRUST events
TRUST sponsors a variety of forums and events throughout the year to assist new and veteran legislators and state officials in understanding Oklahoma’s critical transportation needs. Individual events are held for members of the Senate and House Transportation committees while Congressional Forums include members of Oklahoma’s congressional delegation. Event topics include how surface transportation is funded at state and federal levels, how highways and bridges are designed, built and maintained, how market fluctuations affect construction costs and maintenance, new technologies available and project bidding processes.
TRUST hosts the annual Transportation Innovation Banquet for policy makers and TRUST members featuring a nationally renowned speaker. The Transportation Innovation Banquet also features the awarding of the TRUST Guardian of Transportation Award, an annual honor presented to an Oklahoman who has dedicated their time and expertise to the betterment of Oklahoma’s transportation infrastructure.
TRUST also hosts it annual Transportation Day at the Capitol where TRUST members have the opportunity to visit personally with legislators and hear legislative and budget reports from leaders of the Senate and House.
Public Relations
TRUST communicates on a regular basis with its members, policy makers and transportation advocates through a variety of methods:
SURFACE – a biannual newsletter featuring news on transportation-related legislation, TRUST events and special features
Oklahoma Transportation News – a weekly email newsletter recapping TRUST activity as well as state and federal transportation-related topics
News releases, position statements – TRUST conducts news conferences and produces news releases and position statements as needed to advocate on specific transportation-related topics
TRUST maintains a website (www.restoreTRUST.org) with a wide variety of information on our mission as well as historical and contact information
TRUST maintains a Facebook page and can be followed on Twitter
TRUST maintains resources to conduct paid media campaigns through television, radio and billboards as needed
Why Join TRUST?
Be a part of the voice for transportation advocacy that works with legislators to implement solutions. Without your support and membership to TRUST we risk losing momentum gained since 2006. Within the state Legislature, we must have a constant and growing voice for transportation. We hope you will join TRUST in this vital cause. CLICK HERE to become a member.