BILL ANALYSIS

Senate Research Center                                                                                                       H.B. 364

79R8797 DWS-D                                                                                                By: Hegar (Brimer)

Transportation & Homeland Security

4/18/2005

Engrossed

AUTHOR'S/SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT

Traffic control devices allow emergency personnel to manipulate traffic signals in emergency situations.  However, such devices are now available to the general public on the Internet.  Unauthorized use of these devices could cause traffic hazards. 

As engrossed, H.B. 364 prohibits the unauthorized use or possession of a traffic control device.

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 Subchapter K, Chapter 547, Transportation Code, by adding Section 547.615, as follows:

            Sec. 547.615.              MOBILE INFRARED TRANSMITTER PROHIBITED.  (a) Defines       "mobile infrared transmitter."

(b)  Prohibits a person from possessing a mobile infrared transmitter.

(c)  Provides that this section does not apply to possession of a mobile infrared transmitter by a person in connection with official operation of certain vehicles.

SECTION 2.  Effective date:  September 1, 2005.