BILL ANALYSIS
Senate Research Center S.B. 175
79R1970 DWS-D By: Brimer
Criminal Justice
AUTHOR'S/SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT
Traffic control devices allow emergency personnel to manipulate traffic signals in emergency situations. However, the devices are now available to the general public on the Internet. Unauthorized use of these devices could cause traffic hazards.
As proposed, S.B. 175 makes possession of a traffic control device a Class B misdemeanor.
RULEMAKING AUTHORITY
SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS
SECTION 1. Provides that this Act may be called the MIRT Act.
SECTION 2. Amends Chapter 544, Transportation Code, by adding Section 544.0055, as follows:
Sec. 544.0055. MOBILE INFRARED TRANSMITTER PROHIBITED. (a) Defines "mobile infrared transmitter."
(b) Provides that a person commits an offense if the person possesses a mobile infrared transmitter.
(c) Makes an exception to the application of Subsection (b) if the mobile infrared transmitter is possessed by a person for use in official emergency response duties, as determined by rules adopted by the Texas Department of Transportation.
(d) Provides that an offense under this section is a Class B misdemeanor.
SECTION 3. Effective date: September 1, 2005.