SRC-JJJ H.B. 1492 76(R)   BILL ANALYSIS


Senate Research Center   H.B. 1492
76R5328 JD-FBy: Alexander (Cain)
Infrastructure
5/3/1999
Engrossed


DIGEST 

Currently, a person between 15 and 18 years of age is eligible for a
special restricted Class M license to operate a motorcycle that has not
more than a 125 cubic centimeter displacement.  Some have complained that
motorcycles of this type are not available in sufficient quantity and are
unsafe in traffic.  H.B. 1492 would establish conditions regarding the
classification of a motor-driven cycle or moped and a driver's license
issued for the operation of certain motorcycles. 

PURPOSE

As proposed, H.B. 1492 establishes conditions regarding the classification
of a motor-driven cycle or moped and a driver's license issued for the
operation of certain motorcycles. 

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 Sections 521.224(b) and (e), Transportation Code, to
authorize the Texas Department of Transportation (department) to issue a
special restricted Class M license that authorizes the holder to operate
only a motorcycle that has not more than a 250, rather than 125, cubic
centimeter piston displacement.  Makes a conforming change. 

SECTION 2.  Amends Section 521.225, Transportation Code, by adding
Subsection (d), to require the department to certify whether a vehicle
alleged to be a moped is a moped.  Sets forth conditions by which the
department shall determine that a vehicle is a moped.   

SECTION 3.  Amends Section 541.201(10), Transportation Code, to redefine
"motor-driven cycle." 

SECTION 4.  Repealer:  Section 521.226, Transportation Code (regarding
certification). 

SECTION 5.  Effective date: September 1, 1999.

SECTION 6.  Emergency clause.