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.