SRC-JEC, S.B. 631 77(R)   BILL ANALYSIS


Senate Research Center   S.B. 631
77R5175 JMG-FBy: Bernsen
Intergovernmental Relations
2/27/2001
As Filed


DIGEST AND PURPOSE 

Currently, counties lack the regulatory authority to prohibit the use or
possession of aerial fireworks along beaches in unincorporated areas.  As
proposed, S.B. 631 authorizes the commissioners courts of coastal counties
to make this prohibition. 

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 Chapter 61D, Natural Resources Code, as follows:

SUBCHAPTER D.  New heading:  COUNTY REGULATION OF PUBLIC USE OF BEACHES

SECTION 2.  Amends Section 61.122, Natural Resources Code, as follows:

 Sec. 61.122.  New heading:  COUNTY REGULATORY AUTHORITY.

SECTION 3.  Amends Section 61.122, Natural Resources Code, to authorize the
commissioners court of a county bordering on the Gulf of Mexico or its
tidewater limits, by order, to prohibit the use or possession of any aerial
fireworks on a beach in the unincorporated area of the county.  Defines
"aerial fireworks."  

SECTION 4.  Effective date: upon passage or September 1, 2001.