The Texas Department of Transportation may:(1) purchase, construct, lease, and contract for public transportation systems;(2) use the expertise of recognized private authorities or consultants to plan and design public and mass transportation systems;(3) represent this state in each public and mass transportation matter before a state or federal agency;(4) subject to Section 455.052, apply for and receive a gift or grant from a governmental or private source for use in performing the department's functions under this chapter;(5) contract as necessary to perform a function under this chapter; and(6) recommend legislation necessary to advance this state's interest in public and mass transportation. Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.Amended by: Acts 2017, 85th Leg., R.S., Ch. 434 (S.B. 1523), Sec. 3, eff. June 1, 2017.