SRC-MAX H.B. 2101 75(R) BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research Center H.B. 2101 By: Siebert (Cain) State Affairs 5-15-97 Engrossed DIGEST Currently, Section 471.002, Transportation Code, requires railroad companies to place crossbuck signs at first or second class public roads and provides that if the railroad does not, and an accident occurs, then the railroad is responsible. Once the sign has been properly placed, the motorist would be obligated to yield. This bill sets forth provisions regarding stopping at railroad grade crossings and provides penalties. PURPOSE As proposed, H.B. 2101 sets forth provisions regarding stopping at railroad grade crossings; provides penalties. 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 Section 545.251, Transportation Code, to require an operator approaching a railroad grade crossing to stop not closer than 15 feet or farther than 50 feet from the nearest rail if a crossing gate is lowered, or a flagger warns of, rather than signals, the approach or passage of a train; an approaching train is plainly visible to the operator and is in hazardous proximity to the crossing, or the operator is required to stop by certain provisions of law. Sets forth provisions for an operator of a vehicle with respect to railroad crossings. Provides that an operator commits an offense if the operator drives around, under, or through a crossing gate or a barrier at a railroad crossing while the gate or barrier is closed, being closed, or being opened. Sets forth a provision regarding prosecution under this section. Provides that an offense under this section is punishable by a fine of not less than $50 or more than $200. SECTION 2. Provides that this Act conforms Section 545.251, Transportation Code, to Section 1, Chapter 881, Acts of the 74th Legislature, 1995. Provides that this Act prevails in any conflict between this Act and another Act of the 75th Legislature. SECTION 3. Effective date: September 1, 1997. SECTION 4. Emergency clause.