SRC-DPW S.B. 1679 76(R) BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research Center S.B. 1679 By: Bernsen Infrastructure 4/23/1999 As Filed DIGEST Currently, it is reported that the process by which the Texas Department of Transportation issues permits for the operation of certain vehicles is in need of revision. This bill would set forth revised guidelines for the issuance of permits for the operation of certain vehicles that exceed maximum allowable weight limitations. PURPOSE As proposed, S.B. 1679 revises guidelines for the issuance of permits for the operation of certain vehicles that exceed maximum allowable 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 ENTITIES. Prohibits the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) from charging a governmental entity a fee for a permit issued by TxDOT 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 Subsections (d) - (g), Section 623.011, Transportation Code, to delete existing Subsections (d) - (f), requiring TxDOT to issue a sticker when issuing a permit, requiring a sticker to contain certain information, and an offense for not displaying a sticker. Makes a conforming change. SECTION 3. Amends Section 623.0112, Transportation Code, to delete existing Subdivision (1), regarding costs incurred by TxDOT in issuing a sticker under Section 623.011(d), Transportation Code. Makes conforming changes. SECTION 4. Amends Subsections (b) and(d), Section 623.074, Transportation Code, to delete text requiring an application to be dated and signed by the applicant. Deletes the definition of "digital signature." Makes conforming changes. SECTION 5. Amends Section 623.123, Transportation Code, to make a conforming change. SECTION 6.Emergency clause Effective date: upon passage.