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.