SRC-SLL H.B. 297 75(R) BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research Center H.B. 297 By: Driver (Galloway) State Affairs 5-18-97 Engrossed DIGEST The Texas Transportation Commission is authorized by the Transportation Code to adopt a manual and specifications for a uniform system of traffic-control devices. The Texas Department of Transportation and local authorities may place traffic control devices on a state highway to implement the system. Chapter 545B, Transportation code, requires driving in the right lane unless certain conditions apply. This bill will provide regulations regarding certain signs controlling use of traffic lanes. PURPOSE As proposed, H.B. 297 provides regulations regarding certain signs controlling use of traffic lanes. RULEMAKING AUTHORITY This bill does not grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency. SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS SECTION 1. Amends Chapter 544, Transportation Code, by adding Section 544.011, as follows: Sec. 544.011. LANE USE SIGNS. Requires a sign to read "left lane for passing only" if, on a highway having more than one lane with vehicles traveling in the same direction, the Department of Public Safety or a local authority places a sign that directs slower traffic to travel in a lane other than the farthest left lane. SECTION 2. Requires the Texas Transportation Commission, before January 1, 1998, to amend the sign manual adopted under Section 544.01, Transportation Code, to comply with Section 544.011, Transportation Code, as added by this Act. Provides that this Act does not require the Texas Department of Transportation or a local authority to replace or repaint a sign. Provides that Section 544.011, Transportation Code, as added by this Act, applies only to a sign originally placed on a highway on or sighne replaced or repainted, or after the effective date of this Act for a reason other than compliance with Section 544.011, Transportation Code. SECTION 3. Effective date: September 1, 1997.