SRC-JJJ H.B. 3061 76(R) BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research Center H.B. 3061 76R6697 DWS-FBy: Hill (Bernsen) Infrastructure 5/10/1999 Engrossed DIGEST H.B. 3061 attempts to streamline the issuance of various permits authorizing the operation of oversize and overweight vehicles and loads by exempting governmental entities from payment of fees for all size and weight permits; removing the requirement for a windshield sticker for weight tolerance permits; and removing the requirement that applications for certain permits be dated and signed by the applicant. PURPOSE As proposed, H.B. 3061 establishes conditions regarding the issuance of permits for the operation of certain vehicles that exceed maximum size or weight limitations. 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 Chapter 621E, Transportation Code, by adding Section 621.357, as follows: Sec. 621.357. PAYMENT OF FEES BY GOVERNMENTAL ENTITY. Prohibits the Texas Department of Transportation (department) from charging a governmental entity a fee for a permit issued by the department that authorizes the operation of a vehicle and its load or a combination of vehicles and load exceeding size or weight limitations. SECTION 2. Amends Section 623.011, Transportation Code, to delete text regarding the issuance of a sticker in order to aid in the enforcement of weight limitations, and that failing to display the sticker is a Class C misdemeanor. SECTION 3. Amends Section 623.0112, Transportation Code, to make conforming changes. SECTION 4. Amends Sections 623.074(b) and (d), Transportation Code, to delete text requiring an application to be dated and signed; considering an electronic application to be dated and signed if certain conditions exist; and the definition of "digital signature." Makes conforming changes. SECTION 5. Amends Section 623.123, Transportation Code, to delete text requiring an application to be signed and dated by the applicant. Makes conforming changes. SECTION 6. Emergency clause. Effective date: upon passage.