81R11936 JD-D

By: Brown of Brazos H.B. No. 3599

A BILL TO BE ENTITLED

AN ACT

relating to the operation of certain three-wheeled vehicles in this state.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:

SECTION 1. Section 521.001(a), Transportation Code, is amended by adding Subdivision (6-a) to read as follows:

(6-a) "Motorcycle" includes an enclosed three-wheeled passenger vehicle that:

(A) is designed to operate with three wheels in contact with the ground;

(B) has an unladen weight of at least 900 pounds;

(C) has a single cab with an enclosed passenger seating area and seats similar to those of a passenger vehicle;

(D) at a minimum, is equipped with:

(i) an automotive steering system and a steering wheel used to maneuver the vehicle;

(ii) a motor unit or power train located in front of or behind the operator;

(iii) a safety belt for each passenger;

(iv) a windshield and windshield wipers; and

(v) a roll bar; and

(E) is produced by its manufacturer in a minimum number of 100 in any calendar year.

SECTION 2. Section 521.166, Transportation Code, is amended by adding Subsection (c) to read as follows:

(c) An applicant is not required to comply with Subsection (a) if the motorcycle of the applicant is:

(1) of the type described by Section 521.001(a)(6-a); and

(2) equipped with a seat and a safety belt for both the applicant and the license examiner.

SECTION 3. Section 680.013, Transportation Code, is amended to read as follows:

Sec. 680.013. USE OF PREFERENTIAL LANE BY MOTORCYCLE. A motorcycle, including a motorcycle described by Section 521.001(a)(6-a), may be operated in a preferential lane that is not closed to all vehicular traffic.

SECTION 4. This Act takes effect September 1, 2009.