Representative William M. Straus, a Democrat from Mattapoisett, has been re-appointed by Speaker Robert DeLeo to serve as House Chair of the legislature’s Joint Committee on Transportation, a position he has held since 2011.

The appointment was confirmed during a Thursday afternoon Democratic caucus on Feb. 14, and once again puts Representative Straus in position to shape policy on a number of transportation issues affecting South Coast residents, including commuter rail service and local road and bridge funding.

“I am honored to serve in this leadership position and welcome the challenge of overseeing legislation to improve state and regional transportation systems,” said Chairman Straus.  “Connecting South Coast commuters to the Boston area remains an issue of great importance to my district and the surrounding region, and I look forward to exploring and promoting opportunities for regional airports and port facilities.” 

 During his time as co-chair, Chairman Straus has worked on passage of a $12.7 billion transportation bond bill, legislation overhauling governance and management of the MBTA, and annual funding for local road and bridge projects.  He also continues to serve as a member of Governor Baker’s autonomous vehicles working group.