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.