SRC-JBJ, DPW H.B. 2598 76(R) BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research Center H.B. 2598 By: McReynolds (Shapiro) State Affairs 5/13/1999 Engrossed DIGEST Currently, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is responsible for ensuring that highway improvement projects are in compliance with the federal Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Under Texas law, the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (department) adopts standards and specifications necessary to ensure that persons with disabilities have access to certain public buildings and facilities. This bill would require TxDOT to submit to the department plans and specifications for projects on public rights-of-way. PURPOSE As proposed, H.B. 2598 require the Texas Department of Transportation to submit to the Department of Licensing and Regulation plans and specifications for projects on public rights-of-way. 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 5, Article 9102, V.T.C.S., by adding Subsections (i) and (j), to require employees of the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) responsible for the approval of plans and specifications for a project on a public right-of-way to complete applicable training offered by the Department of Licensing and Regulation (department) and requires TxDOT to reimburse the department for costs incurred in providing such training. Requires TxDOT to submit to the department plans and specifications for each project constructed on a public right-of-way containing pedestrian facilities funded by TxDOT (pedestrian projects) to ensure compliance with the accessibility standards adopted under this article. Require TxDOT to submit a report before November 1 of each year regarding TxDOT's compliance with the accessibility requirements in pedestrian projects during the preceding fiscal year. Provides that this subsection expires November 1, 2001. SECTION 2.Emergency clause. Effective date: upon passage.