SRC-JBJ H.B. 2230 77(R) BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research Center H.B. 2230 77R11023 JD-FBy: McReynolds (Ogden) Criminal Justice 5/10/2001 Engrossed DIGEST AND PURPOSE Currently, there is a conflict in the Transportation Code regarding certain accident reports filed with the Department of Public Safety (DPS). Under one provision, a peace officer who is notified of a motor vehicle accident with damages to an apparent extent of at least $500 may investigate the accident and file justifiable charges relating to the accident, while under another provision, enforcement action by DPS is restricted to those cases with reported damage of an amount that is at least $1,000. H.B. 2230 amends various provisions to set the applicable minimum estimated costs of damages at $1,000. RULEMAKING AUTHORITY This bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency. SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS SECTION 1. Amends Section 550.041(a), Transportation Code, to authorize a peace officer who is notified of a motor vehicle accident resulting in injury to or death of a person or property damage to an apparent extent of at least $1,000, rather than $500, to investigate the accident and file justifiable charges relating to the accident without regard to whether the accident occurred on property to which this chapter applies. SECTION 2. Amends Section 550.061(a), Transportation Code, to make a conforming change. SECTION 3. Amends Section 550.062(a), Transportation Code, to make a conforming change. SECTION 4. Amends Section 601.004(a), Transportation Code, to make a conforming change. SECTION 5. Effective date: September 1, 2001. Makes application of this Act prospective.