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.