Assignment of responsibility for maintenance, an essential function in the administration and operation of all highway systems as a means of protecting public investment and preserving standards of safety and economy, is a matter of primary concern for all state legislatures. This is a survey of state laws or statutes on maintenance. Statutory definition of maintenance and legislative duty and authority to maintain roads are summarized. In this definitive statement, the maintenance jurisdiction of the state, county, and cities is established in terms of road systems and road financing. Both mandatory and permissive provisions for each jurisdiction are outlined.