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.