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.