BILL ANALYSIS

H.B. 3701

By: Patterson

Transportation

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

In Texas, certain types of three-wheeled vehicles are not allowed to be registered with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles or driven on the roadways because they do not meet the current definition for an autocycle due to the lack of a steering wheel. H.B. 3701 revises the definition of an autocycle to include vehicles that have any type of steering mechanism, instead of just vehicles with a steering wheel. The bill also seeks to ensure that autocycles are equipped with seat belts.

CRIMINAL JUSTICE IMPACT

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly create a criminal offense, increase the punishment for an existing criminal offense or category of offenses, or change the eligibility of a person for community supervision, parole, or mandatory supervision.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency, or institution.

ANALYSIS

H.B. 3701 amends the Transportation Code to revise the definition of an autocycle, for purposes of titling, registration, and provisions relating to protective headgear, by including the condition that the autocycle is equipped with seat belts and by changing from a steering wheel to a steering mechanism the steering equipment for the autocycle. The bill excepts an autocycle that has a partially or fully enclosed cab from the applicability of provisions relating to protective headgear for motorcycle operators and passengers.

EFFECTIVE DATE

September 1, 2023.