JWW H.B. 1664 75(R)BILL ANALYSIS


PUBLIC SAFETY
H.B. 1664
By: Oliveira
3-25-97
Committee Report (Unamended)



BACKGROUND 

Currently there is no law that makes it a crime to remove, destroy, or
conceal signs that warn of potential hazards.  This can create a problem
when a potential buyer is looking at a piece of land to buy, they may not
know of the hazards that lie below the ground.  A prime example of this is
farm land, located near an energy plant, that is to be turned into
residential use. 

PURPOSE

To create a class B misdemeanor for the removal, damage, or intentional
concealment of a sign or maker that gives the location of certain
underground facilities. 

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. 

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1. (a)  anyone removing, damages, or intentionally conceals a
marker or sign   regarding the location of an underground pipeline,
electric transmission line,   telegraph or telephone line, or other
facility potentially hazardous to public health;   and the marker or sign
provides notice of penalty for the offense. 
  
  (b)  this offense is a class B misdemeanor.

SECTION 2. EMERGENCY CLAUSE