BILL ANALYSIS
Senate Research Center S.B. 1107
By: Shapiro
Transportation & Homeland Security
AUTHOR'S / SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT
Drivers need to be aware of the danger of partaking in distracting activities while driving, such as talking on a cell phone, before the state issues a driver's license. In addition to cell phone usage, there are many other distractions that cause danger to others on the roadway.
This legislation requires the commissioner of education, in consultation with the Texas Department of Public Safety, by rule to require that information relating to the effect of using a wireless communication device or engaging in other actions that may distract a driver on the safe or effective operation of a motor vehicle be included in the curriculum of each driver education course or driving safety course.
S.B. 1107 amends current law relating to the requirement that driver education curriculum include information regarding distractions while driving.
RULEMAKING AUTHORITY
Rulemaking authority is expressly granted to the commissioner of education in SECTION 1 (Section 1001.110, Education Code) of this bill.
SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS
SECTION 1. Amends Subchapter C, Chapter 1001, Education Code, by adding Section 1001.110, as follows:
Sec. 1001.110. INFORMATION RELATING TO DRIVING DISTRACTIONS. (a) Requires the commissioner of education (commissioner) by rule to require that information relating to the effect of using a wireless communication device or engaging in other actions that may distract a driver on the safe or effective operation of a motor vehicle be included in the curriculum of each driver education course or driving safety course.
(b) Requires the commissioner to consult with the Texas Department of Public Safety in developing rules under this section.
SECTION 2. Requires the commissioner, as soon as practicable after the effective date of this Act, to adopt the rules required by Section 1001.110, Education Code, as added by this Act.
SECTION 3. Effective date: September 1, 2009.