SRC-HRD S.B. 567 75(R) BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research Center S.B. 567 By: Truan International Relations, Trade & Technology 2-17-97 As Filed DIGEST Currently, the Union Pacific and Southern Pacific Railroads are not merged. This bill requires the comptroller to study the economic effects in Texas of a merger between the two railroads. PURPOSE As proposed, S.B. 567 requires the comptroller, in conjunction with the Texas Transportation Institute at Texas A&M University, to conduct a study of the economic effects in Texas of the merger of the Union Pacific and Southern Pacific railroads. RULEMAKING AUTHORITY This bill does not grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency. SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS SECTION 1. Requires the comptroller, in conjunction with the Texas Transportation Institute at Texas A&M University, to conduct a study of the economic effects in Texas of the merger of the Union Pacific and Southern Pacific railroads. Requires the study to specifically include the merger's effect on the cost and availability of rail transportation between Texas and Mexico and the impact of the merger on trade with Mexico. Requires the comptroller to, not later than December 15, 1998, file a written report with the lieutenant governor and the speaker of the house of representatives detailing the results of the study. SECTION 2. Emergency clause. Effective date: upon passage.