SRC-DBM H.B. 496 76(R) BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research Center H.B. 496 By: Flores (Lucio) Border Affairs - Special 5/4/1999 Engrossed DIGEST Currently, the state operates stolen vehicle checkpoints at all border crossings into Mexico. The program has proved to be successful, but changes related to increased traffic and congestion along the border have created a need to fine-tune the program. H.B. 496 would set forth provisions regulating the operation of vehicle theft checkpoints near the Mexican border. PURPOSE As proposed, H.B. 496 sets forth provisions regulating the operation of vehicle theft checkpoints near the Mexican border. 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 411.0095, Government Code, as follows: Sec. 411.0095. New heading: VEHICLE THEFT CHECKPOINTS AT BORDER CROSSING. Authorizes the Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas (department) to establish a program for the purpose of establishing border crossing checkpoints to prevent stolen vehicles, farm tractors or implements, construction equipment, aircraft, or watercraft from entering Mexico. Authorizes a checkpoint to be established under Subsection (a), if the checkpoint is located within 250 yards of a federally designated crossing facility located at or near the actual boundary between this state and Mexico; and located on a public highway or street leading directly to an international border crossing. Authorizes the department to establish the border crossing checkpoint program in conjunction with local law enforcement authorities. Defines "motor vehicle" and "watercraft." Deletes text authorizing the department to establish a program in conjunction with local law enforcement authorities for the purpose of establishing checkpoints to prevent stolen vehicles, farm tractors or implements, or construction equipment from entering Mexico. Deletes text authorizing a checkpoint to be established under Subsection (a) under certain conditions. Makes conforming changes. SECTION 2.Effective date: September 1, 1999. SECTION 3.Emergency clause.