BILL ANALYSIS

Senate Research Center                                                                                                        S.B. 893

80R6569 JTS-F                                                                                                               By: Zaffirini

Transportation & Homeland Security

3/19/2007

As Filed

AUTHOR'S / SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT

Cities along the border are authorized to construct a railroad toll bridge. However, border counties lack similar authority. Currently, Webb County is considering development of a new rail bridge to facilitate commerce between the United States and Mexico.

As proposed, S.B. 893 grants border counties the authority to construct a railroad toll bridge and to enter into agreements with other government entities for the purpose of constructing and maintaining such a bridge.

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 A, Chapter 364, Transportation Code, by adding Section 364.0001, as follows:

Sec. 364.0001. DEFINITION. Defines "bridge."

SECTION 2. Amends Subchapter B, Chapter 364, Transportation Code, by adding Section 364.025, as follows:

Sec. 364.025. AGREEMENTS RELATING TO TOLL BRIDGE. Authorizes a county to enter into and make payments under an agreement with another governmental entity for the purpose of jointly acquiring, constructing, maintaining, or operating a toll bridge. Authorizes a government entity to enter into an agreement for that purpose.

SECTION 3. Effective date: September 1, 2007.