81R6156 JTS-D
 
  By: Carona S.B. No. 1540
 
 
 
A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
 
AN ACT
  relating to a nonsubstantive revision of statutes relating to
  railroads; including conforming amendments.
         BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
  ARTICLE 1. GENERAL MATTERS
         SECTION 1.01.  PURPOSE OF ACT. (a) This Act is enacted as a
  part of the state's continuing statutory revision program under
  Section 323.007, Government Code. The program contemplates a
  topic-by-topic revision of the state's general and permanent
  statute law without substantive change.
         (b)  Consistent with the objectives of the statutory
  revision program, the purpose of this Act is to make the law
  encompassed by this Act more accessible and understandable by:
               (1)  rearranging the statutes into a more logical
  order;
               (2)  employing a format and numbering system designed
  to facilitate citation of the law and to accommodate future
  expansion of the law;
               (3)  eliminating repealed, duplicative, expired, and
  executed provisions; and
               (4)  restating the law in modern American English to
  the greatest extent possible.
  ARTICLE 2. TRANSFER OF PROVISIONS FROM TITLE 112, REVISED
  STATUTES, TO TRANSPORTATION CODE
         SECTION 2.01.  Subtitle A, Title 5, Transportation Code, is
  redesignated as Subtitle B, Title 5, Transportation Code, and the
  subtitle heading is amended to read as follows:
  SUBTITLE B [A]. STATE RAIL FACILITIES [TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF
  TRANSPORTATION]
         SECTION 2.02.  Title 5, Transportation Code, is amended by
  adding a new Subtitle A to read as follows:
  SUBTITLE A. GENERAL PROVISIONS
  CHAPTER 81. GENERAL PROVISIONS
  Sec. 81.001.  DEFINITIONS 
  Sec. 81.002.  APPLICABILITY 
  SUBTITLE A.  GENERAL PROVISIONS
  CHAPTER 81.  GENERAL PROVISIONS
         Sec. 81.001.  DEFINITIONS. In this title:
               (1)  "Commission" means the Texas Transportation
  Commission.
               (2)  "Department" means the Texas Department of
  Transportation.  (New.)
         Sec. 81.002.  APPLICABILITY. In this title, a reference to a
  railroad company includes:
               (1)  a railroad incorporated before September 1, 2007,
  under former Title 112, Revised Statutes; or
               (2)  any other legal entity operating a railroad,
  including an entity organized under the Texas Business Corporation
  Act or the Texas Corporation Law provisions of the Business
  Organizations Code.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6259a.)
         SECTION 2.03.  Title 5, Transportation Code, is amended by
  adding Subtitles C and D to read as follows:
  SUBTITLE C. RAILROADS GENERALLY
  CHAPTER 111. REGULATION BY TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
  SUBCHAPTER A. GENERAL PROVISIONS
  Sec. 111.001.  DEFINITION OF PERSON 
  Sec. 111.002.  POWER AND AUTHORITY 
  Sec. 111.003.  TRANSFER OF RAILROAD AUTHORITY 
  Sec. 111.004.  REFERENCE TO RAILROAD COMMISSION 
  [Sections 111.005-111.050 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER B. REGULATION OF RAILROADS BY DEPARTMENT
  Sec. 111.051.  INSPECTION OF BOOKS AND PAPERS; PENALTY 
  Sec. 111.052.  INFORMATION SOLICITED BY DEPARTMENT 
  Sec. 111.053.  REFUSAL TO ANSWER BY RAILROAD COMPANY
                  OFFICER OR EMPLOYEE; CRIMINAL PENALTY 
  Sec. 111.054.  REFUSAL TO ANSWER BY RAILROAD COMPANY;
                  PENALTY 
  Sec. 111.055.  WITNESSES 
  Sec. 111.056.  DEPOSITIONS 
  Sec. 111.057.  PENALTY NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED 
  Sec. 111.058.  SUITS FOR PENALTY 
  [Sections 111.059-111.100 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER C. DEPARTMENT SAFETY REGULATION
  Sec. 111.101.  IMPLEMENTATION OF FEDERAL SAFETY LAWS;
                  FEES 
  Sec. 111.102.  HAZARDOUS MATERIALS INSPECTIONS 
  SUBTITLE C. RAILROADS GENERALLY
  CHAPTER 111. REGULATION BY TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
  SUBCHAPTER A. GENERAL PROVISIONS
         Sec. 111.001.  DEFINITION OF PERSON.  In this chapter:
               (1)  "person" includes a corporation, as provided by
  Section 312.011, Government Code; and
               (2)  the definition of "person" assigned by Section
  311.005, Government Code, does not apply.  (New.)
         Sec. 111.002.  POWER AND AUTHORITY.  To the extent not
  preempted by federal law, the department:
               (1)  has power and authority over:
                     (A)  railroads, including suburban, belt, and
  terminal railroads;
                     (B)  public wharves, docks, piers, elevators,
  warehouses, sheds, tracks, and other property used in connection
  with railroads; and
                     (C)  persons, associations, and private or
  municipal corporations that own or operate a railroad, or a wharf,
  dock, pier, elevator, warehouse, shed, track, or other property
  used in connection with a railroad; and
               (2)  shall govern and regulate those railroads,
  persons, associations, and corporations and prevent abuses in the
  conduct of their business. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6445, Subsec. (a).)
         Sec. 111.003.  TRANSFER OF RAILROAD AUTHORITY. On October 1,
  2005, all powers and duties of the Railroad Commission of Texas that
  related primarily to railroads and the regulation of railroads and
  that existed on that date were transferred to the department, as
  provided by Chapter 281, Acts of the 79th Legislature, Regular
  Session, 2005.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6445, Subsec. (b).)
         Sec. 111.004.  REFERENCE TO RAILROAD COMMISSION.  Any
  reference in law to the Railroad Commission of Texas that relates
  primarily to railroads and the regulation of railroads means the
  department.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6445, Subsec. (c).)
  [Sections 111.005-111.050 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER B. REGULATION OF RAILROADS BY DEPARTMENT
         Sec. 111.051.  INSPECTION OF BOOKS AND PAPERS; PENALTY.  (a)  
  A member of the commission or a person authorized in writing by a
  member of the commission under the hand and seal of the department
  may at any time:
               (1)  inspect the books and papers of a railroad
  company; and
               (2)  examine under oath a railroad company officer,
  agent, or employee in relation to the business and affairs of the
  company.
         (b)  A railroad company that refuses to permit an examination
  of the company's books and papers under Subsection (a) is liable to
  the state, for each violation, for a penalty of not less than $125
  or more than $500 for each day the company fails or refuses to
  permit the examination.
         (c)  An officer, agent, or employee of a railroad company who
  possesses or controls any book or paper of the company commits an
  offense if, after proper demand, the officer, agent, or employee
  fails or refuses to exhibit, to any member of the commission or any
  person authorized to investigate, the book or paper.  An offense
  under this subsection is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not
  less than $125 or more than $500.  (V.A.C.S. Arts. 6464, 6465,
  6559i-1.)
         Sec. 111.052.  INFORMATION SOLICITED BY DEPARTMENT.  (a)  
  The department shall as often as necessary provide each railroad
  company a questionnaire designed to elicit all information
  concerning the railroad.
         (b)  A railroad company receiving a questionnaire under
  Subsection (a) shall properly fill out the questionnaire and answer
  each question fully and correctly.  A railroad company that is
  unable to answer a question shall give satisfactory reason for the
  inability to answer.
         (c)  A railroad company shall return the completed
  questionnaire, sworn to by the proper officer of the company, to the
  department not later than the 30th day after the date the company
  received the questionnaire.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6467.)
         Sec. 111.053.  REFUSAL TO ANSWER BY RAILROAD COMPANY OFFICER
  OR EMPLOYEE; CRIMINAL PENALTY.  (a)  An officer or employee of a
  railroad company commits an offense if the officer or employee:
               (1)  fails or refuses to fill out and return a
  questionnaire to the department as required by law;
               (2)  fails or refuses to answer any question in a
  questionnaire;
               (3)  gives a false answer to any question in a
  questionnaire if the answer to the question is within the officer's
  or employee's knowledge; or
               (4)  evades the answer to any question in a
  questionnaire.
         (b)  An offense under this section is a misdemeanor
  punishable by a fine of $500 for each day that the officer or
  employee violates this section after the date the questionnaire is
  due to the department.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6559i-2.)
         Sec. 111.054.  REFUSAL TO ANSWER BY RAILROAD COMPANY;
  PENALTY.  (a)  A railroad company is liable to the state for a
  penalty of $500 if:
               (1)  an officer or employee of the company:
                     (A)  fails or refuses to fill out and return a
  questionnaire under Section 111.052;
                     (B)  fails or refuses to answer a question in a
  questionnaire under Section 111.052;
                     (C)  gives a false answer to a question in a
  questionnaire under Section 111.052 and the fact inquired of is
  within the officer's or employee's knowledge; or
                     (D)  evades the answer to such a question in a
  questionnaire under Section 111.052; and
               (2)  it appears that the officer or employee acted in
  obedience to the company's direction, permission, or request in the
  officer's or employee's failure, refusal, or evasion.
         (b)  The department may prescribe a system of bookkeeping to
  be observed by each railroad company that receives a questionnaire
  under Section 111.052, under the penalties of Subsection (a).  
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6468.)
         Sec. 111.055.  WITNESSES. (a) This section applies only to
  the extent that it does not conflict with Chapter 2001, Government
  Code.
         (b)  In an examination or investigation under this chapter,
  the department may compel the attendance of witnesses and may issue
  subpoenas for witnesses in accordance with rules prescribed by the
  department. The officer to whom process is directed shall serve it.
         (c)  A witness who appears before the department by order of
  the department at a place outside the county where the witness
  resides is entitled to receive for the witness's attendance:
               (1)  $1 for each day; and
               (2)  three cents for each mile the witness travels, by
  the nearest practical route, in going to and returning from that
  place.
         (d)  On the presentation of proper vouchers, sworn to by the
  witness and approved by the department, the comptroller shall pay
  the witness the amount to which the witness is entitled.
         (e)  A witness is not entitled to fees or mileage if, when
  summoned at the request of a railroad, the witness:
               (1)  is directly or indirectly interested in the
  railroad;
               (2)  is in any way interested in stock, a bond, a
  mortgage, or a security, or the earnings of the railroad; or
               (3)  was an officer, agent, or employee of the
  railroad.
         (f)  A witness furnished with free transportation may not
  receive pay for the distance the witness travels on the free
  transportation.
         (g)  The department may issue an attachment as in civil cases
  for a witness who fails or refuses to obey a subpoena and may compel
  the witness to appear before the department and testify on a matter
  as the department requires.
         (h)  If a witness, after being summoned, fails or refuses to
  attend or to answer a question asked of the witness that the witness
  would be required to answer if in court, the department may fine and
  imprison the witness for contempt in the same manner that a judge of
  the district court might do under similar circumstances.
         (i)  The claim that testimony might tend to incriminate the
  person giving the testimony does not excuse a witness from
  testifying, but the evidence or testimony may not be used against
  the witness in a criminal trial. (New; V.A.C.S. Art. 6471.)
         Sec. 111.056.  DEPOSITIONS. (a)  The department may in its
  discretion issue process to take the testimony of a witness by a
  written or oral deposition instead of compelling the personal
  attendance of the witness.
         (b)  An officer executing process issued under a provision of
  this subtitle or Subtitle D may charge a fee as determined by the
  department, not to exceed fees prescribed by law for similar
  services. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6472.)
         Sec. 111.057.  PENALTY NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED.  A railway
  company doing business in this state is liable to the state for a
  penalty of not more than $5,000 each time the railway company:
               (1)  violates any provision of this subtitle or
  Subtitle D or fails or refuses to perform any duty imposed upon it
  for which a penalty has not been provided by law; or
               (2)  fails, neglects, or refuses to obey any
  requirement, order, judgment, or decree of the department.  
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6476.)
         Sec. 111.058.  SUITS FOR PENALTY.  (a)  For a penalty
  provided under this chapter that is recoverable by the state, the
  attorney general, or an attorney acting under the direction of the
  attorney general, may bring suit in the name of the state in:
               (1)  Travis County; or
               (2)  any county in or through which the railroad runs.
         (b)  The attorney bringing a suit under this section is
  entitled to receive:
               (1)  a fee to be paid by the state of $50 for each
  penalty recovered and collected by the attorney; and
               (2)  10 percent of the amount collected.
         (c)  In all suits arising under this chapter or Section
  112.003, the rules of evidence shall be the same as in ordinary
  civil actions, except as otherwise provided by this chapter.  
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6477 (part).)
  [Sections 111.059-111.100 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER C.  DEPARTMENT SAFETY REGULATION
         Sec. 111.101.  IMPLEMENTATION OF FEDERAL SAFETY LAWS; FEES.  
  (a)  The department may perform any act, adopt any rules, and issue
  any orders as permitted by the Federal Railroad Safety Act of 1970,
  originally codified as 45 U.S.C. Sections 421, 431 et seq. and
  recodified in 1994 as 49 U.S.C. Sections 20101-20117, 20131,
  20133-20141, 20143, 21301, 21302, 21304, 21311, 24902, and 24905
  and Sections 4(b)(1), (i), and (t) of Pub. L. No. 103-272.
         (b)  The department by rule shall:
               (1)  adopt reasonable fees to be assessed annually
  against railroads operating within the state; and
               (2)  establish the method by which the fees are
  calculated and assessed.
         (c)  The total amount of fees estimated to be collected by
  rules adopted by the department under this section may not exceed
  the amount estimated by the department to be necessary to recover
  the costs of administering the department's rail safety program.
         (d)  In adopting a fee structure, the department may consider
  the gross ton miles for railroad operations within this state for
  each railroad operating in the state to provide for the equitable
  allocation among railroads of the cost of administering the
  department's rail safety program.
         (e)  A fee collected under this section shall be deposited to
  the credit of the general revenue fund to be used for the rail
  safety program. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6448a.)
         Sec. 111.102.  HAZARDOUS MATERIALS INSPECTIONS.  (a)  The
  department may enter private property on which a railroad facility
  that is connected to but not a part of a general railroad system of
  transportation is located at a reasonable time and in a reasonable
  manner to perform an inspection, investigation, or surveillance of
  facilities, equipment, records, and operations relating to the
  packaging, loading, or transportation of hazardous materials to
  determine whether the railroad facility complies with the
  applicable safety requirements of this chapter or a rule adopted
  under this chapter.
         (b)  In performing an inspection under this section, the
  department may not require a railroad facility owner or operator to
  alter or cease rail operations.
         (c)  Any inspection, investigation, or surveillance
  performed on the site of a manufacturing facility shall be
  performed in compliance with the safety rules of the facility,
  including a rule regarding security clearance at the front gate if
  appropriate.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6448b.)
  CHAPTER 112. POWERS AND DUTIES OF RAILROADS
  SUBCHAPTER A. GENERAL PROVISIONS
  Sec. 112.001.  DEFINITION OF PERSON 
  Sec. 112.002.  GENERAL RIGHTS OF RAILROADS 
  Sec. 112.003.  DAMAGES 
  [Sections 112.004-112.050 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER B. ACQUISITION AND USE OF PROPERTY BY RAILROAD OR OF RAILROAD
  RAILROAD
  Sec. 112.051.  ENTRY ONTO PRIVATE PROPERTY 
  Sec. 112.052.  ACQUISITION OF PROPERTY FOR CHANGE,
        
                  LINE 
  Sec. 112.053.  CONDEMNATION OF PROPERTY: WHEN RAILROAD
                  COMPANY AND OWNER DISAGREE 
  Sec. 112.054.  CONDEMNATION OF PROPERTY: CERTAIN
                  TERMINAL SWITCHING RAILROADS 
  Sec. 112.055.  RIGHT-OF-WAY ACQUIRED BY CONDEMNATION 
  Sec. 112.056.  CONDEMNATION OF PROPERTY FOR CERTAIN
                  ROADS 
  Sec. 112.057.  CONSTRUCTION ON OR NEAR CERTAIN
                  WATERWAYS OR ROADS 
  Sec. 112.058.  INTERSECTION OF RAIL LINE AND ROAD OR
                  STREET 
  Sec. 112.059.  CROSSINGS OF PUBLIC ROADS 
  Sec. 112.060.  CONVERSION OF PROPERTY IN CUSTODY OF
                  RAILROAD COMPANY 
  Sec. 112.061.  SUIT INVOLVING RAILROAD COMPANY PROPERTY 
  Sec. 112.062.  RAILROAD COMPANY PROPERTY SUBJECT TO EXECUTION;
                  CHARACTERIZATION OF ROLLING STOCK 
  [Sections 112.063-112.100 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER C.  SAFETY
  Sec. 112.101.  CATTLE GUARDS 
  Sec. 112.102.  LIABILITY FOR DEATH OR INJURY TO STOCK 
  Sec. 112.103.  DUTY TO STOP AND RENDER AID; OFFENSE 
  [Sections 112.104-112.150 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER D. LIABILITY FOR INJURIES TO EMPLOYEES
  Sec. 112.151.  APPLICABILITY OF SUBCHAPTER 
  Sec. 112.152.  LIABILITY GENERALLY FOR INJURY TO OR
                  DEATH OF EMPLOYEE 
  Sec. 112.153.  CONTRIBUTORY NEGLIGENCE 
  Sec. 112.154.  ASSUMED RISK 
  Sec. 112.155.  CERTAIN PROVISIONS VOID 
  Sec. 112.156.  LIABILITY OFFSET 
  Sec. 112.157.  CONSTRUCTION OF CERTAIN SECTIONS 
  Sec. 112.158.  INJURY TO FELLOW SERVANT 
  CHAPTER 112.  POWERS AND DUTIES OF RAILROADS
  SUBCHAPTER A. GENERAL PROVISIONS
         Sec. 112.001.  DEFINITION OF PERSON.  In this chapter:
               (1)  "person" includes a corporation, as provided by
  Section 312.011, Government Code; and
               (2)  the definition of "person" assigned by Section
  311.005, Government Code, does not apply.  (New.)
         Sec. 112.002.  GENERAL RIGHTS OF RAILROADS. (a)  A railroad
  company has the right to succession.
         (b)  A railroad company may:
               (1)  sue, be sued, plead, and be impleaded in its
  corporate name;
               (2)  have and use a seal and alter the seal at will;
               (3)  receive and convey persons and property on its
  railway by any mechanical power, including the use of steam;
               (4)  regulate the time and manner in which, and the
  compensation for which, passengers and property are transported,
  subject to the provisions of law;
               (5)  exercise the power of eminent domain for the
  purposes prescribed by this subtitle or Subtitle D;
               (6)  purchase, hold, and use all property as necessary
  for the construction and use of its railway, stations, and other
  accommodations necessary to accomplish company objectives, and
  convey that property when no longer required for railway use; and
               (7)  take, hold, and use property granted to the
  company to aid in the construction and use of its railway, and
  convey that property in a manner consistent with the terms of the
  grant when the property is no longer required for railway use.
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6341.)
         Sec. 112.003.  DAMAGES. A railroad subject to this subtitle
  or Subtitle D is liable to a person, firm, or corporation injured
  for the damages resulting from:
               (1)  a prohibited or unlawful act or thing that the
  railroad does or causes or permits to be done; or
               (2)  failure of the railroad to perform an act the
  railroad is required to perform under this subtitle or Subtitle D.
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6475.)
  [Sections 112.004-112.050 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER B. ACQUISITION AND USE OF PROPERTY BY RAILROAD OR OF
  RAILROAD
         Sec. 112.051.  ENTRY ONTO PRIVATE PROPERTY. (a)  A railroad
  company is entitled to make an examination and survey for the
  company's proposed railway, to be performed as necessary to select
  the most advantageous route for the proposed railway, and, subject
  to Subsection (c), may enter on the lands or waters of any person or
  corporation for that purpose.
         (b)  A railroad company is responsible for any damages
  arising from an examination or survey under this section.
         (c)  Except for the purposes of performing a lineal survey, a
  railroad company may not enter on private real property for the
  purpose of condemning the property or any material on the property
  for any purpose until the company agrees with and pays the owner of
  the property all damages that may be caused to the owner's property
  by the condemnation of the property and by the construction of the
  company's road.  (V.A.C.S. Arts. 6318, 6337.)
         Sec. 112.052.  ACQUISITION OF PROPERTY FOR CHANGE,
  RELOCATION, OR ABANDONMENT OF RAILROAD LINE. (a)  Subject to
  Subsection (b), a railroad company or a receiver of a railroad that
  changes, relocates, or abandons a line of railroad in this state may
  acquire by condemnation or otherwise land for:
               (1)  right-of-way;
               (2)  depot grounds;
               (3)  shops;
               (4)  roundhouses;
               (5)  water supply sites;
               (6)  sidings;
               (7)  switches;
               (8)  spurs; or
               (9)  any other purpose connected with or necessary to
  the building or operating of the line of railroad, as changed,
  relocated, or abandoned.
         (b)  Property acquired under this section must be declared
  for and charged with public use.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6351.)
         Sec. 112.053.  CONDEMNATION OF PROPERTY: WHEN RAILROAD
  COMPANY AND OWNER DISAGREE. (a) A railroad company may acquire
  property by condemnation if the company cannot agree with the owner
  for the purchase of the property and the property is required for
  any of the following purposes:
               (1)  the incorporation of the railroad;
               (2)  the transaction of company business;
               (3)  depots, station buildings, and machine and repair
  shops;
               (4)  the construction of reservoirs for the water
  supply;
               (5)  the right-of-way, or new or additional
  right-of-way;
               (6)  a change or relocation;
               (7)  a roadbed;
               (8)  the shortening of a line;
               (9)  the reduction of grades;
               (10)  the double tracking of the railroad or the
  construction and operation of tracks; or
               (11)  any other purpose connected with or necessary to
  the building, operating, or running of the railroad.
         (b)  A railroad company may not, under this section, condemn
  property that is located more than two miles from the company's
  right-of-way.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6336.)
         Sec. 112.054.  CONDEMNATION OF PROPERTY: CERTAIN TERMINAL
  SWITCHING RAILROADS. (a)  This section applies only to the
  condemnation of property for a terminal switching railroad that:
               (1)  handles fewer than 10,000 but more than 3,000
  carloads a year; and
               (2)  operates in a single county that:
                     (A)  has a population of 110,000 or more;
                     (B)  is not adjacent to the Texas border; and
                     (C)  does not contain a portion of a national
  forest.
         (b)  The power to condemn property given to a railroad
  company under this subtitle or Subtitle D, including Section
  112.052 or 112.053, does not apply to any property used for or
  designated under local zoning regulations for residential use
  unless the use of the condemned property is authorized under or in
  conformity with local zoning or development regulations. (V.A.C.S.
  Art. 6336a.)
         Sec. 112.055.  RIGHT-OF-WAY ACQUIRED BY CONDEMNATION. (a)  
  A right-of-way that a railway company in this state acquires by
  condemnation does not include a fee simple estate in public or
  private land.
         (b)  A right-of-way that a railway company acquires by
  condemnation is not lost on forfeiture or expiration of the railway
  company's charter. The right-of-way remains subject to an
  extension of the charter or the grant of a new charter, and a new
  condemnation of the way is not required. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6339.)
         Sec. 112.056.  CONDEMNATION OF PROPERTY FOR CERTAIN ROADS.
  (a)  Subject to Subsection (b), a corporation created to build,
  maintain, and operate a line of railroads to a mine, gin, quarry,
  manufacturing plant, or mill may acquire by condemnation land
  necessary for the right-of-way for a road connecting the mine, gin,
  quarry, manufacturing plant, or mill to the nearest line of
  railroad.
         (b)  The corporation may condemn property under this section
  only if the corporation declares itself a common carrier and its
  railroads public highways, placing the road under the control of
  the department.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550.)
         Sec. 112.057.  CONSTRUCTION ON OR NEAR CERTAIN WATERWAYS OR
  ROADS.  (a)  A railroad company may construct the company's road
  across, along, or on any stream of water, water course, street,
  highway, turnpike, or canal where the route of the company's
  railway intersects or touches the stream, water course, street,
  highway, turnpike, or canal.
         (b)  The railroad company shall:
               (1)  restore the stream, water course, street, highway,
  turnpike, or canal to its former state or to a state in which its
  usefulness is not unnecessarily impaired; and
               (2)  keep the crossing in repair. (V.A.C.S. Art.
  6320.)
         Sec. 112.058.  INTERSECTION OF RAIL LINE AND ROAD OR STREET.
  Sections 112.051, 112.053, 112.054, 112.055, 112.057, 112.059, and
  112.061 do not affect a law that requires a railroad company to
  provide a proper crossing at each intersection of a road or street.
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6326.)
         Sec. 112.059.  CROSSINGS OF PUBLIC ROADS. (a)  Each railroad
  company in this state shall place and keep the portion of the
  company's roadbed and right-of-way over or across which a public
  county road runs in proper condition for the use of the traveling
  public.
         (b)  A railroad company is liable for a penalty of $10 for
  each week the company does not comply with the requirements of this
  section if:
               (1)  the overseer of a public road gives written notice
  to the company's person responsible for maintaining the area where
  the work is needed; and
               (2)  the company fails to complete the work or repairs
  within 30 days after the date written notice is given under
  Subdivision (1).
         (c)  A county attorney, on the making of an affidavit of the
  facts by any person, shall immediately institute a suit against the
  railroad company to recover the penalty provided by this section. A
  county attorney's wilful failure or refusal to comply with this
  subsection is sufficient cause for the county attorney to be
  removed from office unless it is evident that the suit could not
  have been maintained.
         (d)  A proceeding under this section shall be conducted in
  the name of the county and in the same manner as a proceeding in a
  civil suit.
         (e)  A county attorney is entitled to a fee of $10, taxed as
  costs, for each suit maintained by the county attorney under this
  section. If two or more penalties are sought in the same suit only
  one fee may be recovered under this subsection.
         (f)  If the county is cast in the suit, the county may not be
  charged costs.
         (g)  A penalty collected under this section shall be
  deposited in the road and bridge fund of the county in which the
  suit is brought. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6327.)
         Sec. 112.060.  CONVERSION OF PROPERTY IN CUSTODY OF RAILROAD
  COMPANY. (a)  A railroad company in this state or a receiver of a
  railroad company in this state may not confiscate or otherwise
  convert to the company's or receiver's own use, in whole or in
  substantial part, a carload shipment of any article or commodity of
  freight traffic received by the company or receiver for
  transportation and delivery without the express consent of the
  owner or consignee of the shipment.
         (b)  An act of an agent, officer, or employee of a railroad
  company or receiver under this section that is within the apparent
  scope of the agent's, officer's, or employee's duties or authority
  with respect to the confiscation or conversion is considered to be
  an act of the company or receiver.
         (c)  This section does not apply to a conversion of freight
  that has been damaged or intermingled with other freight in wrecks,
  or to refused or unclaimed freight, that the railroad is unable to
  deliver.
         (d)  In addition to all other remedies or penalties that may
  be provided by law, a railroad company or receiver that violates
  this section is subject to:
               (1)  a penalty in favor of the state of not less than
  $125 or more than $500; and
               (2)  an additional penalty in favor of the owner or
  consignee of the converted shipment equal to twice the amount of the
  purchase price of the converted shipment.  (V.A.C.S. Arts. 6366,
  6367.)
         Sec. 112.061.  SUIT INVOLVING RAILROAD COMPANY PROPERTY.
  (a)  If a railroad company is sued for property occupied by the
  company for railroad purposes or for damages to property occupied
  by the company for railroad purposes, the court in which the suit is
  pending may determine all matters in dispute between the parties,
  including the condemnation of the property, on petition or cross
  bill by the defendant requesting that remedy.
         (b)  A plea for condemnation under Subsection (a) is
  considered an admission of the plaintiff's title to the property.  
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6338.)
         Sec. 112.062.  RAILROAD COMPANY PROPERTY SUBJECT TO
  EXECUTION; CHARACTERIZATION OF ROLLING STOCK. (a)  All or any part
  of a railroad company's real and personal property is subject to
  execution and sale in the same manner as the property of
  individuals.
         (b)  No portion of a railroad company's real or personal
  property is exempt from execution and sale.
         (c)  The rolling stock and all other movable property
  belonging to a railroad company is considered personal property.  
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6420.)
  [Sections 112.063-112.100 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER C.  SAFETY
         Sec. 112.101.  CATTLE GUARDS.  (a)  A railroad company whose
  railroad passes through a field or enclosure shall construct and
  keep in good repair a good and sufficient cattle guard or stop at
  each location the railroad enters the field or enclosure.
         (b)  If a field or enclosure through which a railway passes
  is enlarged or extended, or the owner of any land over which a
  railway runs clears and opens a field so as to include the track of a
  railway, the railroad company shall construct and keep in repair
  good and sufficient cattle guards or stops at the borders of the
  extended enclosures or fields or the new fields.
         (c)  A cattle guard or stop required by this section shall be
  constructed and kept in repair to protect the fields and enclosures
  from the depredations of stock of any kind.
         (d)  If a railroad company fails to construct and keep in
  repair a cattle guard or stop required by this section, the owner of
  the enclosure or field may:
               (1)  have the required cattle guards or stops
  constructed at the proper places and kept in repair; and
               (2)  recover from the company the costs of constructing
  or repairing the required cattle guards or stops, unless it is shown
  that the enlargement or extension was made capriciously and with
  intent to harass and molest the company.
         (e)  A railroad company that neglects to construct or keep in
  repair a proper cattle guard or stop as required by this section is
  liable to a party injured by the neglect for all damages that may
  result from the neglect. The injured party may seek to recover the
  damages by filing suit. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6400.)
         Sec. 112.102.  LIABILITY FOR DEATH OR INJURY TO STOCK.  (a)
  Subject to Subsection (b), a railroad company is liable to the owner
  for the value of all stock killed or injured by the company's
  locomotives and cars operating over the company's railways,
  regardless of whether the county or subdivision of a county in which
  the death or injury occurs has, under Subchapter B or D, Chapter
  143, Agriculture Code, prohibited certain animals from running at
  large.
         (b)  A railroad company that fences its railway is liable
  only for injury to stock that results from a want of ordinary care.
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6402.)
         Sec. 112.103.  DUTY TO STOP AND RENDER AID; OFFENSE.  (a)  In
  this section, "operator" means the person assigned by a railroad
  company to be responsible for the operation of a train.
         (b)  An operator who is involved, while operating a
  locomotive, in an accident resulting in injury to or death of a
  person or damage to a vehicle that is driven or attended by a person
  shall immediately stop the locomotive at the scene of the accident.
         (c)  The operator shall render to a person injured in the
  accident reasonable assistance, including transporting, or the
  making of arrangements for transporting, the person to a physician,
  surgeon, or hospital for medical or surgical treatment if it is
  apparent that treatment is necessary or if the injured person
  requests transportation.
         (d)  A person who violates this section commits an offense.
  An offense under this subsection is a Class C misdemeanor.
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6419b; New.)
  [Sections 112.104-112.150 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER D.  LIABILITY FOR INJURIES TO EMPLOYEES
         Sec. 112.151.  APPLICABILITY OF SUBCHAPTER.
  Notwithstanding any other law, this subchapter does not apply to
  the portion of a person's, receiver's, or corporation's operations
  that:
               (1)  consists solely of the fabrication, manufacture,
  repair, or storage of rail rolling stock; or
               (2)  uses rail cars solely as a part of its own internal
  manufacturing or production process. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6432A.)
         Sec. 112.152.  LIABILITY GENERALLY FOR INJURY TO OR DEATH OF
  EMPLOYEE. (a) A corporation, receiver, or other person operating a
  railroad in this state is liable for damages to a person who, while
  employed by the railroad operator, is injured as a result of:
               (1)  the negligence of an officer, agent, or employee
  of the railroad operator; or
               (2)  any defect or insufficiency due to the railroad
  operator's negligence in its cars, engines, appliances, machinery,
  track, roadbed, works, boats, wharves, or other equipment.
         (b)  If an employee dies as a result of the negligence,
  defect, or insufficiency described by Subsection (a), the railroad
  operator is liable to the employee's personal representative for
  the benefit of the employee's surviving spouse and children and the
  employee's parents or, if the employee is not survived by a spouse,
  child, or parent, to the employee's next of kin who is dependent on
  the employee.
         (c)  Damages recovered under Subsection (b) are not liable
  for the debts of the deceased and shall be divided among the persons
  entitled to the benefit of the action who are living, in shares the
  fact finder considers proper.
         (d)  An action under Subsection (b) may be brought without
  administration by all parties entitled to damages under that
  subsection, or by any one or more of those parties, for the benefit
  of all of those parties. If all parties entitled to recover are not
  before the court, the action may proceed for the benefit of the
  parties who are before the court.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6439.)
         Sec. 112.153.  CONTRIBUTORY NEGLIGENCE. (a) In an action
  under Section 112.152, the employee's contributory negligence is
  not a bar to recovery but the fact finder shall reduce the
  employee's damages in proportion to the amount of contributory
  negligence attributable to the employee.
         (b)  An employee may not be found contributorily negligent in
  a case in which the railroad operator's violation of a statute
  enacted for the safety of employees contributed to the employee's
  injury or death.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6440.)
         Sec. 112.154.  ASSUMED RISK. (a)  The plea of assumed risk
  is not available as a bar to recovery of damages in a suit brought in
  a court in this state against a corporation, receiver, or other
  person operating a railroad, interurban railway, or street railway
  in this state for the recovery of damages for the death of or
  personal injury to an employee caused by the wrong or negligence of
  the railroad or railway operator. An employee assumes the ordinary
  risk incident to the employee's employment but does not assume the
  risk resulting from any negligence of the employee's employer,
  regardless of whether the negligence is known to the employee.
         (b)  If in a suit described by Subsection (a) it is alleged
  and proven that the deceased or injured employee was negligent in
  continuing in the service of the railroad or railway operator in
  view of the risk, dangers, and hazards of which the employee knew or
  must necessarily have known, in the ordinary performance of the
  employee's duties, that fact does not bar the employee's recovery,
  but is considered contributory negligence. If contributory
  negligence described by this subsection proximately caused or
  contributed to the cause of the death or injury, the damages
  recoverable by the employee or the employee's heirs or
  representatives shall be reduced only in proportion to the amount
  of negligence attributable to the employee.
         (c)  An employee of a railway company who is injured while
  engaged in the operation of a train in this state that is propelled
  by two or more engines is not considered to have assumed the risk of
  that injury if the injury is a result of the operation of two or more
  engines on the train rather than one.
         (d)  In an action against a railroad operator under Section
  112.152, an employee may not be held to have assumed the risk of the
  employee's employment in a case in which the railroad operator's
  violation of a statute enacted for the safety of employees
  contributed to the employee's injury or death. (V.A.C.S. Arts.
  6437, 6438, 6441.)
         Sec. 112.155.  CERTAIN PROVISIONS VOID. A provision of a
  contract, rule, or device the purpose of which is to exempt a
  railroad operator from liability under Section 112.152 is void to
  the extent of the purported exemption.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6442
  (part).)
         Sec. 112.156.  LIABILITY OFFSET. In an action against a
  railroad operator under Section 112.152, the railroad operator may
  offset the railroad operator's liability by the amount of the
  railroad operator's contribution or payment to any insurance,
  relief benefit, or indemnity from which benefits have been paid to
  the injured employee or another person entitled to the benefits as a
  result of the injury or death that is the subject of the action.
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6442 (part).)
         Sec. 112.157.  CONSTRUCTION OF CERTAIN SECTIONS. (a)
  Sections 112.152, 112.153, 112.154(d), 112.155, and 112.156 do not:
               (1)  limit the duty or liability of a railroad operator
  or impair the rights of an employee under the Revised Statutes of
  1925; or
               (2)  affect a right of action under another law of this
  state.
         (b)  Except as provided by Section 112.151, a section listed
  in Subsection (a) controls over any other provision of the Revised
  Statutes of 1925 with which it conflicts. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6443.)
         Sec. 112.158.  INJURY TO FELLOW SERVANT. (a)  This section
  applies only to a corporation, receiver, or other person that
  controls or operates a railroad or street railway the line of which
  is located wholly or partly in this state.
         (b)  An entity described by Subsection (a) is liable for
  damages sustained by an employee of the entity while the employee is
  engaged in the work of operating the cars, locomotives, or trains of
  the entity as a result of the negligence of any other employee of
  the entity, regardless of whether the negligent employee and the
  employee who sustained the damages are considered fellow servants.
         (c)  Persons who are engaged in the common service of an
  entity described by Subsection (a) are considered fellow servants
  only if the persons are:
               (1)  employed in the same grade of employment;
               (2)  doing the same character of work or service; and
               (3)  working together at the same time and place and at
  the same piece of work for a common purpose.
         (d)  A person engaged in the service of an entity described
  by Subsection (a) is considered a vice principal of that entity if
  the person is entrusted by the entity with the authority of
  superintendence, control, or command of the other employees of the
  entity, with the authority to direct any other employee in the
  performance of any duty of the employee.
         (e)  A vice principal of an entity described by Subsection
  (a) is not considered a fellow servant with other employees of the
  entity.
         (f)  A contract between an employer and employee that limits
  the employer's liability under this section in the event of the
  death of or injury to the employee or setting damages that may be
  recovered under this section is not valid or binding.
         (g)  This section does not impair or diminish the defense of
  contributory negligence if the injury of the employee is
  proximately caused by the employee's own contributory negligence.  
  (V.A.C.S. Arts. 6432, 6433, 6434, 6435, 6436.)
  [Chapters 113-130 reserved for expansion]
  SUBTITLE D. MISCELLANEOUS RAILROADS
  CHAPTER 131. MISCELLANEOUS RAILWAYS
  SUBCHAPTER A. GENERAL PROVISIONS
  Sec. 131.001.  DEFINITION OF PERSON 
  [Sections 131.002-131.010 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER B. ELECTRIC RAILWAYS
  Sec. 131.011.  DEFINITION 
  Sec. 131.012.  EMINENT DOMAIN 
  Sec. 131.013.  RIGHT-OF-WAY 
  Sec. 131.014.  CONSTRUCTION OF RAILWAY ALONG OR OVER
                  WATERWAY OR INFRASTRUCTURE 
  Sec. 131.015.  USE OF ELECTRIC STREET RAILWAY TRACKS 
  Sec. 131.016.  TIME REQUIRED FOR CONSTRUCTION 
  Sec. 131.017.  USE OF CONDEMNED TRACK 
  [Sections 131.018-131.030 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER C. MERGER OF INTERURBAN RAILWAY
  Sec. 131.031.  DEFINITION 
  Sec. 131.032.  ACQUISITION OF RAILWAY PROPERTY
                  AUTHORIZED 
  Sec. 131.033.  MUNICIPAL CONSENT REQUIRED 
  Sec. 131.034.  USE OF STREET RAILWAYS 
  Sec. 131.035.  LIMITATION ON ACQUISITION 
  [Sections 131.036-131.060 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER D. PROVISION OF UTILITIES
  Sec. 131.061.  INTERURBAN ELECTRIC RAILWAYS 
  Sec. 131.062.  SUPPLY AND SALE OF ELECTRICITY BY
                  STREET, SUBURBAN, OR BELT LINE RAILWAY 
  [Sections 131.063-131.100 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER E. REDUCED STREET RAILWAY FARES
  Sec. 131.101.  APPLICABILITY 
  Sec. 131.102.  CHILDREN YOUNGER THAN 13 YEARS OF AGE 
  Sec. 131.103.  STUDENTS 
  Sec. 131.104.  CHILDREN YOUNGER THAN SIX YEARS OF AGE 
  Sec. 131.105.  TRANSFER RIGHTS 
  [Sections 131.106-131.900 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER Z. MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS
  Sec. 131.901.  STREET AND SUBURBAN RAILWAYS 
  Sec. 131.902.  FREIGHT INTERURBAN RAILWAYS 
  Sec. 131.903.  BUILDINGS AND OTHER FACILITIES: CERTAIN
                  RAILWAYS 
  Sec. 131.904.  MOTOR BUS LINES 
  SUBTITLE D.  MISCELLANEOUS RAILROADS
  CHAPTER 131. MISCELLANEOUS RAILWAYS
  SUBCHAPTER A. GENERAL PROVISIONS
         Sec. 131.001.  DEFINITION OF PERSON.  In this chapter:
               (1)  "person" includes a corporation, as provided by
  Section 312.011, Government Code; and
               (2)  the definition of "person" assigned by Section
  311.005, Government Code, does not apply.  (New.)
  [Sections 131.002-131.010 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER B.  ELECTRIC RAILWAYS
         Sec. 131.011.  DEFINITION.  In this subchapter, "interurban
  electric railway company" means a corporation chartered under the
  laws of this state to conduct and operate an electric railway
  between two municipalities in this state.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6540
  (part).)
         Sec. 131.012.  EMINENT DOMAIN. A corporation chartered for
  the purpose of constructing, acquiring, maintaining, or operating
  lines of electric railway between municipalities in this state for
  the transportation of freight, passengers, or both freight and
  passengers may:
               (1)  exercise the power of eminent domain with all the
  rights and powers granted by law to a railroad company; and
               (2)  enter, condemn, and appropriate land,
  right-of-way, easements, or other property of any person or
  corporation to acquire:
                     (A)  right-of-way on which to construct and
  operate lines of railway for the acquiring corporation; or
                     (B)  sites for depots or power plants.  (V.A.C.S.
  Art. 6535.)
         Sec. 131.013.  RIGHT-OF-WAY. (a) A corporation described
  by Section 131.012 may:
               (1)  lay out right-of-way not to exceed 200 feet in
  width for its railways;
               (2)  construct its railways and appurtenances on that
  right-of-way; and
               (3)  with compensation being made in accordance with
  law:
                     (A)  take for the purpose of cuttings and
  embankments additional land necessary for the proper construction
  and security of its railways; and
                     (B)  cut down any tree or remove any structure
  that may be in danger of falling on or obstructing its railway.
         (b)  The corporation may:
               (1)  have an examination and survey of its proposed
  railway made as necessary to select the most advantageous route;
  and
               (2)  for the purposes of Subdivision (1), enter on the
  land or water of any person or corporation, subject to
  responsibility for all damages that may be caused by the entrance,
  examination, or survey. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6536.)
         Sec. 131.014.  CONSTRUCTION OF RAILWAY ALONG OR OVER
  WATERWAY OR INFRASTRUCTURE. (a)  A corporation described by
  Section 131.012 may construct its railway along, across, or over
  any stream, water course, bay, navigable water, arm of the sea,
  street, highway, steam railway, turnpike, or canal located in the
  route of its electric railway.
         (b)  The corporation may erect and operate a bridge, tram,
  trestle, or causeway, over, along, or across any stream, water
  course, bay, navigable water, arm of the sea, street, highway,
  turnpike, or canal described by Subsection (a).
         (c)  A bridge or other structure described by Subsection (b)
  may not be erected so as to unnecessarily or unreasonably prevent
  the navigation of the stream, water course, bay, arm of the sea, or
  navigable water.
         (d)  This section does not authorize the construction of an
  electric railway on or across a street, alley, square, or property
  of a municipality without the consent of the governing body of the
  municipality.
         (e)  Before constructing an electric railway along or on a
  highway, turnpike, or canal, an interurban electric railway company
  must obtain the consent of the authority having jurisdiction over
  the highway, turnpike, or canal. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6537.)
         Sec. 131.015.  USE OF ELECTRIC STREET RAILWAY TRACKS. (a)
  An interurban electric railway company's power of eminent domain
  under this subchapter includes the power to condemn for its use and
  benefit easements and right-of-way to operate interurban cars along
  and on the track of an electric street railway company owning,
  controlling, or operating track on any public street or alley in a
  municipality for a purpose described by Subsection (b), subject to
  the consent, authority, and control of the governing body of the
  municipality.
         (b)  Condemnation under Subsection (a) may be used only to
  secure an entrance into and an outlet from a municipality on a route
  designated by the governing body of the municipality.
         (c)  In a proceeding to condemn an easement or right-of-way
  under this section, the court or the jury trying the case shall
  define and establish the terms on which the easement or
  right-of-way may be used.
         (d)  A court rendering a judgment in a proceeding under this
  section may review and reform the terms of a grant and the
  provisions of the judgment on a subsequent application by a party to
  the original proceeding or a person claiming through or under a
  party to the original proceeding.
         (e)  The hearing on an application brought under Subsection
  (d) is in the nature of a retrial of the proceeding with respect to
  the terms on which the easement may be used except that the court
  may not declare the easement forfeited or impair the exercise of the
  easement.
         (f)  An application under Subsection (d) may not be made
  before the second anniversary of the date of the final judgment on
  the most recent application.  (V.A.C.S. Arts. 6538, 6539.)
         Sec. 131.016.  TIME REQUIRED FOR CONSTRUCTION. The rights
  secured under this chapter by an interurban electric railway
  company are void unless the road to be constructed under the charter
  of the company is fully constructed from one municipality to
  another within 12 months of the date of the final judgment awarding
  the company an easement or right-of-way under Section 131.015.  
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6540 (part).)
         Sec. 131.017.  USE OF CONDEMNED TRACK. (a) Unless the
  company whose track is condemned under this subchapter consents, an
  interurban electric railway company exercising the powers granted
  under this chapter may not receive for transportation freight or
  passengers at any location on the condemned track destined to
  another location on the condemned track.
         (b)  A company that wilfully violates Subsection (a)
  forfeits the easement or right-of-way used to provide the
  transportation.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6540 (part).)
  [Sections 131.018-131.030 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER C. MERGER OF INTERURBAN RAILWAY
         Sec. 131.031.  DEFINITION. In this subchapter, "interurban
  railway" means an electric or other interurban line of railway in
  this state.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6543 (part).)
         Sec. 131.032.  ACQUISITION OF RAILWAY PROPERTY AUTHORIZED.
  (a) A corporation organized under the laws of this state that is
  authorized to construct, acquire, and operate an interurban railway
  may:
               (1)  acquire, lease, or purchase the physical property,
  rights, and franchise of any other railway corporation with similar
  powers; or
               (2)  lease or purchase physical property, rights, and
  franchises of any suburban or street railway corporation the
  railway lines of which are to be operated in connection with the
  interurban railway.
         (b)  The owner of physical property or a right or franchise
  described by Subsection (a)(1) or (2) may sell or dispose of the
  property, right, or franchise to the corporation making an
  acquisition, lease, or purchase under Subsection (a).
         (c)  An acquisition or purchase under this section may be on
  the terms:
               (1)  agreed to by the board of directors of each
  corporation; and
               (2)  authorized or approved by a majority of the
  stockholders of each corporation. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6543 (part).)
         Sec. 131.033.  MUNICIPAL CONSENT REQUIRED. (a) Before
  selling property under this subchapter, a corporation that owns or
  operates a street car railway must obtain the consent of the
  governing body of the municipality in which the street car line is
  located.
         (b)  This subchapter does not affect a charter provision of a
  municipality that provides for the right of qualified voters of the
  municipality to vote on the granting or amending of franchise to a
  street or interurban railway. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6543 (part).)
         Sec. 131.034.  USE OF STREET RAILWAYS. A corporation
  authorized to construct, acquire, and operate an interurban railway
  and a corporation owning and operating a street railway may enter
  into a trackage or lease contract to allow for continuous passage
  into or through a municipality, subject to the consent of the
  governing body of the municipality.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6543 (part).)
         Sec. 131.035.  LIMITATION ON ACQUISITION. A corporation
  described by this subchapter may not:
               (1)  acquire, own, control, or operate a parallel or
  competing interurban line; or
               (2)  purchase, lease, acquire, own, or control,
  directly or indirectly, the shares or certificates of stock or
  bonds, a franchise or other right, or the physical property or any
  part of the property, of any corporation in violation of the law
  commonly known as the antitrust law.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6543 (part).)
  [Sections 131.036-131.060 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER D. PROVISION OF UTILITIES
         Sec. 131.061.  INTERURBAN ELECTRIC RAILWAYS. An interurban
  electric railway company, as defined by Section 131.011, is
  entitled to produce, supply, and sell electric light and power to
  the public and to municipalities.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6541.)
         Sec. 131.062.  SUPPLY AND SALE OF ELECTRICITY BY STREET,
  SUBURBAN, OR BELT LINE RAILWAY. A corporation organized under the
  general laws of this state that owns or operates with electric power
  any street or suburban railway or belt line of railways in and near
  a municipality for the transportation of freight and passengers
  within this state may:
               (1)  supply and sell electric light and power to the
  public or a municipality;
               (2)  acquire or otherwise provide appliances necessary
  for an activity authorized by Subdivision (1); and
               (3)  in the manner provided by law, amend its articles
  of incorporation to expressly include the authority under this
  section. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6545 (part).)
  [Sections 131.063-131.100 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER E. REDUCED STREET RAILWAY FARES
         Sec. 131.101.  APPLICABILITY. This subchapter applies only
  to a person or corporation owning or operating a street railway in
  or on the public streets of a municipality with a population of
  40,000 or more.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6544 (part).)
         Sec. 131.102.  CHILDREN YOUNGER THAN 13 YEARS OF AGE. (a)  
  The owner or operator of a street railway shall transport a child
  younger than 13 years of age for half the fare regularly collected
  for the transportation of an adult.
         (b)  This section does not apply to the transportation of a
  child to or from a school or other institution of learning located
  one mile or more outside the corporate limits of the municipality in
  which the street car operates.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6544 (part).)
         Sec. 131.103.  STUDENTS. (a) The owner or operator of a
  street railway shall sell or provide for the sale of tickets for
  half of the regular fare collected for the transportation of adults
  to students younger than 18 years of age who attend academic,
  public, or private school in a grade not higher than the highest
  grade of the public high schools located in or adjacent to the
  municipality in which the railway is located.
         (b)  Tickets under this section must be sold in lots of 20,
  with each ticket valid for one trip over the railway lines.
         (c)  Tickets under this section are not required to be sold
  unless the student making the purchase presents the written
  certificate of the principal of the school the student attends
  stating that the student:
               (1)  is younger than 18 years of age; and
               (2)  is in regular attendance at a school in a grade
  that qualifies under Subsection (a).
         (d)  Tickets under this section are not required to be sold
  and may not be used except during the months when a school
  qualifying under Subsection (a) is in session.
         (e)  A student described by Subsection (a) shall be
  transported at half fare only when the student presents a ticket
  issued under this section.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6544 (part).)
         Sec. 131.104.  CHILDREN YOUNGER THAN SIX YEARS OF AGE. The
  owner or operator of a street railway shall transport free of charge
  a child younger than six years of age when attended by a passenger
  who is at least six years of age.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6544 (part).)
         Sec. 131.105.  TRANSFER RIGHTS. The owner or operator of a
  street railway shall offer a passenger paying a reduced fare or no
  fare under this subchapter the same rights as to the use of
  transfers issued by the owner or operator's line or other lines as
  offered to a passenger paying full fare. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6544
  (part).)
  [Sections 131.106-131.900 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER Z. MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS
         Sec. 131.901.  STREET AND SUBURBAN RAILWAYS. (a) Street and
  suburban railways engaged in the transportation of freight in and
  near a municipality are subject to the control of the department.
         (b)  A street railway company is not exempt from payment of
  assessments that may be imposed against it for street improvements.  
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6545 (part).)
         Sec. 131.902.  FREIGHT INTERURBAN RAILWAYS. (a) An entity
  incorporated as an electric, gas or gasoline, denatured alcohol, or
  naphtha interurban or motor railway that engages in transporting
  freight is subject to the control of the department.
         (b)  A corporation described by Subsection (a) is not exempt
  from payment of assessments that may be imposed against it for
  street improvements.
         (c)  An interurban railway described by Subsection (a):
               (1)  may exercise the same power of eminent domain as
  given by law to railroads;
               (2)  may exercise the power of eminent domain to
  acquire right-of-way on which to construct its railway lines and
  sites for depots and power plants;
               (3)  has the same rights, powers, and privileges as
  granted by law to an interurban electric railway company; and
               (4)  may acquire, hold, and operate other public
  utilities in and adjacent to a municipality in or through which the
  company operates.
         (d)  An interurban railway company described by Subsection
  (a) may not condemn property on which is located a cemetery unless
  it is affirmatively shown, and found by the court trying the
  condemnation suit, that:
               (1)  it is necessary to take the property; and
               (2)  no other route is possible or practicable.
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6546.)
         Sec. 131.903.  BUILDINGS AND OTHER FACILITIES: CERTAIN
  RAILWAYS. A corporation organized before September 1, 1925, under
  any law of this state, that operates a line of electric, gas or
  gasoline, denatured alcohol, or naphtha motor railway in and
  between municipalities in this state, may:
               (1)  own and operate union depots and office buildings;
  and
               (2)  acquire, hold, and operate electric light and
  power plants in and adjacent to a municipality in or through which
  the railway operates.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6547 (part).)
         Sec. 131.904.  MOTOR BUS LINES. (a)  This section applies
  only to a corporation authorized to operate a street or suburban
  railway or an interurban railway and to carry passengers for hire.
         (b)  Subject to the approval of the governing body of the
  municipality in which the corporation operates its railway, the
  corporation may:
               (1)  substitute, wholly or partly, motor bus lines for
  its railway; and
               (2)  maintain and operate automobile motor buses to
  carry passengers for hire on:
                     (A)  public roads, streets, plazas, alleys, and
  highways within the corporate limits of a municipality under
  regulations prescribed by the municipality; and
                     (B)  public roads and highways that are located
  outside the corporate limits of that municipality but within five
  miles of the corporate limits, under regulations prescribed by the
  commissioners court of the county.
         (c)  The substitution of motor buses or the discontinuance of
  a railway under this section does not impair any corporate power of
  a corporation incorporated before August 30, 1933, as a street or
  interurban railway with respect to the operation of other public
  utilities authorized by a corporate charter or statute in effect on
  August 30, 1933.
         (d)  A corporation acting under this section must amend its
  charter and pay any fee provided by law for the filing of the
  amendment.
         (e)  This section may not be construed to impair the rights
  of a municipality under a franchise granted to a corporation or its
  predecessor before August 30, 1933.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6548 (part).)
         SECTION 2.04.  Subtitle I, Title 5, Transportation Code, is
  amended by adding Chapters 172, 173, and 174 to read as follows:
  CHAPTER 172. RURAL RAIL TRANSPORTATION DISTRICTS
  SUBCHAPTER A. GENERAL PROVISIONS
  Sec. 172.001.  DEFINITIONS 
  Sec. 172.002.  NATURE OF DISTRICT 
  Sec. 172.003.  FINDINGS 
  [Sections 172.004-172.050 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER B. CREATION
  Sec. 172.051.  APPLICABILITY 
  Sec. 172.052.  CREATION OF DISTRICT BY MORE THAN ONE
                  COUNTY 
  Sec. 172.053.  CREATION OF DISTRICT BY ONE COUNTY 
  Sec. 172.054.  NOTICE OF CREATION 
  Sec. 172.055.  AUTOMATIC ASSUMPTION OF CONTRACTUAL
        
                  DISTRICTS 
  [Sections 172.056-172.100 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER C. BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND EMPLOYEES
  Sec. 172.101.  CONTROL OF DISTRICT 
  Sec. 172.102.  TERMS 
  Sec. 172.103.  QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE 
  Sec. 172.104.  VACANCY 
  Sec. 172.105.  REMOVAL 
  Sec. 172.106.  OFFICERS 
  Sec. 172.107.  MEETINGS; NOTICE 
  Sec. 172.108.  RULES FOR PROCEEDINGS 
  Sec. 172.109.  EMPLOYEES 
  Sec. 172.110.  PECUNIARY INTEREST IN CERTAIN CONTRACTS
                  PROHIBITED 
  [Sections 172.111-172.150 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER D. GENERAL POWERS AND DUTIES
  Sec. 172.151.  GENERAL POWERS OF DISTRICT; GOVERNMENTAL
                  FUNCTIONS 
  Sec. 172.152.  RULES 
  Sec. 172.153.  AGREEMENTS GENERALLY 
  Sec. 172.154.  AGREEMENTS WITH OTHER ENTITIES FOR JOINT
                  USE 
  Sec. 172.155.  JOINT OWNERSHIP AGREEMENTS 
  Sec. 172.156.  AWARDING CONSTRUCTION OR PURCHASE
                  CONTRACTS 
  Sec. 172.157.  EMINENT DOMAIN 
  Sec. 172.158.  DISPOSITION OF SURPLUS PROPERTY 
  Sec. 172.159.  SUITS 
  Sec. 172.160.  PERPETUAL SUCCESSION 
  [Sections 172.161-172.200 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER E. POWERS AND DUTIES RELATING TO ACQUISITION, CONSTRUCTION, AND OPERATION OF RAIL FACILITIES
  CONSTRUCTION, AND OPERATION OF RAIL FACILITIES
  Sec. 172.201.  GENERAL AUTHORITY OVER RAIL FACILITIES 
  Sec. 172.202.  USE AND ALTERATION OF PROPERTY OF
                  ANOTHER POLITICAL SUBDIVISION 
  Sec. 172.203.  RULES GOVERNING SYSTEM; ROUTINGS 
  Sec. 172.204.  ACQUISITION OF PROPERTY 
  Sec. 172.205.  POWERS RELATING TO DISTRICT PROPERTY 
  Sec. 172.206.  ACQUISITION OF ROLLING STOCK AND OTHER
                  PROPERTY 
  Sec. 172.207.  COMPENSATION FOR USE OF SYSTEM FACILITIES 
  Sec. 172.208.  OPERATION OR USE CONTRACTS 
  Sec. 172.209.  RAIL TRANSPORTATION SERVICES AGREEMENTS
                  WITH OTHER POLITICAL SUBDIVISIONS 
  Sec. 172.210.  ABANDONMENT OF RAIL LINE 
  [Sections 172.211-172.250 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER F. FINANCIAL PROVISIONS
  Sec. 172.251.  FISCAL YEAR 
  Sec. 172.252.  ANNUAL BUDGET 
  Sec. 172.253.  GRANTS AND LOANS 
  Sec. 172.254.  DEPOSITORY 
  Sec. 172.255.  APPLICABILITY OF PUBLIC PROPERTY
                  FINANCING LAW; PROHIBITION ON AD VALOREM TAX 
  Sec. 172.256.  NONNEGOTIABLE PURCHASE MONEY NOTES; BOND
                  ANTICIPATION NOTES 
  Sec. 172.257.  TAX EXEMPTION 
  [Sections 172.258-172.300 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER G. BONDS
  Sec. 172.301.  REVENUE BONDS 
  Sec. 172.302.  SECURITY FOR PAYMENT OF BONDS 
  Sec. 172.303.  BONDS AS AUTHORIZED INVESTMENTS
                  AND SECURITY FOR DEPOSITS OF PUBLIC FUNDS 
  Sec. 172.304.  APPLICABILITY OF PUBLIC IMPROVEMENT
                  FINANCING LAW 
  Sec. 172.305.  LIMIT ON POWER 
  Sec. 172.306.  EXEMPTION FROM REVIEW OF NOTES BY
                  ATTORNEY GENERAL 
  CHAPTER 172.  RURAL RAIL TRANSPORTATION DISTRICTS
  SUBCHAPTER A.  GENERAL PROVISIONS
         Sec. 172.001.  DEFINITIONS. In this chapter:
               (1)  "Board" means a district's board of directors.
               (2)  "Bonds" means:
                     (A)  bonds;
                     (B)  notes, including bond anticipation notes,
  revenue anticipation notes, and grant anticipation notes;
                     (C)  warrants;
                     (D)  certificates of obligation;
                     (E)  interest-bearing contracts;
                     (F)  interest-bearing leases of property;
                     (G)  equipment trust certificates;
                     (H)  commercial paper; and
                     (I)  any obligation issued to refund any type of
  bond.
               (3)  "Director" means a board member.
               (4)  "District" means a rural rail transportation
  district created under this chapter or under Chapter 623, Acts of
  the 67th Legislature, Regular Session, 1981 (Article 6550c,
  Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes), as that chapter existed before
  April 1, 2011.
               (5)  "Maintenance facility" includes a workshop, a
  service, storage, security, or personnel facility, temporary or
  transient lodging for district employees, and equipment for any
  type of facility.
               (6)  "Maintenance and operating expenses" means all
  expenses of operating and maintaining a district and its rail
  facilities, including:
                     (A)  all compensation, labor, materials, repairs,
  and extensions necessary, required, or convenient in the board's
  discretion to render efficient service or to maintain and operate
  the district; and
                     (B)  taxes or other amounts paid, payable, or to
  be paid to the United States under Section 148(f), Internal Revenue
  Code of 1986, or any similar law.
               (7)  "Rail facilities" means:
                     (A)  property, or an interest in that property,
  that the board determines is necessary or convenient to provide a
  rural rail transportation system; and
                     (B)  property or an interest necessary or
  convenient to acquire, provide, construct, enlarge, remodel,
  renovate, improve, furnish, use, or equip the system, including:
                           (i)  a right-of-way;
                           (ii)  an earthwork or structure, including
  clearing and grubbing of right-of-way, demolition of a structure,
  relocation of utilities, a pipeline, or any other obstacle in a
  right-of-way, stripping and stockpiling, removal of subsoil for
  embankment or spoil, a borrow pit, dressing and seeding of a slope,
  construction of a culvert, a road crossing, a bridge, restoration
  of a roadway, drainage within a right-of-way or along a road
  network, and restoration of a hydrologic system;
                           (iii)  trackwork;
                           (iv)  a train control, including signalling,
  interlocking equipment, speed monitoring equipment, an emergency
  braking system, a central traffic control facility, and a
  communication system;
                           (v)  a passenger or freight service
  building, terminal, or station, a ticketing facility, a waiting
  area, a platform, a concession, an elevator, an escalator, a
  facility for handicapped access, an access road, a parking facility
  for passengers, a baggage handling facility, a local maintenance
  facility, and offices for district purposes and includes an
  interest in real property necessary or convenient for an item
  listed under this subparagraph;
                           (vi)  rolling stock; and
                           (vii)  a maintenance facility.
               (8)  "Revenue" means the income, receipts, and
  collections received by, to be received by, or pledged to the
  district from or by any source, except a restricted gift or a grant
  in aid of construction.
               (9)  "Right-of-way" means:
                     (A)  a right of passage over property;
                     (B)  a strip of land in length and width
  determined required, necessary, or convenient by the board over,
  on, or under which trackwork is or is to be constructed or acquired;
  or
                     (C)  a right of precedential passing.
               (10)  "Rolling stock" means a locomotive, an engine, a
  rail car, a repair construction car, or another car designed to
  operate on trackwork.
               (11)  "Trackwork" means track, a track bed, track bed
  preparation, a tie, a rail fastener, a slab, a rail, an emergency
  crossover, a setout track, storage track, and a switch. (V.A.C.S.
  Art. 6550c, Secs. 2(1), (2), (4), (5), (8), (9), (11), (12), (13),
  (14), (15), (16), (17); New.)
         Sec. 172.002.  NATURE OF DISTRICT.  (a)  A district is a
  public body and a political subdivision of this state exercising
  public and essential governmental functions.
         (b)  A district, in the exercise of powers under this
  chapter, is performing only governmental functions and is a
  governmental unit under Chapter 101, Civil Practice and Remedies
  Code.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c, Sec. 5(a) (part).)
         Sec. 172.003.  FINDINGS. The legislature finds that:
               (1)  the state contains many rural areas that are
  heavily dependent on agriculture for economic survival;
               (2)  transportation of agricultural and industrial
  products is essential to the continued economic vitality of rural
  areas;
               (3)  the rail transportation systems in some rural
  areas are threatened by railroad bankruptcies and abandonment
  proceedings that would cause the cessation of rail services to the
  areas;
               (4)  it is in the interest of all citizens of the state
  that existing rail systems be maintained for the most efficient and
  economical movement of essential agricultural products from the
  areas of production to the local, national, and export markets;
               (5)  rural rail transportation districts are
  appropriate political subdivisions to provide for the continued
  operation of railroads, which are declared by Section 2, Article X,
  Texas Constitution, to be public highways;
               (6)  the creation, re-creation, financing,
  maintenance, and operation of rural rail transportation districts
  and facilities acquired by the districts under this chapter will
  help develop, maintain, and diversify the economy of the state,
  eliminate unemployment or underemployment, foster the growth of
  enterprises based on agriculture, and serve to develop and expand
  transportation and commerce within the state under the authority
  granted by Section 52-a, Article III, Texas Constitution; and
               (7)  financing by rural rail transportation districts
  for the purposes provided by this chapter is a lawful and valid
  public purpose. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c, Sec. 1.)
  [Sections 172.004-172.050 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER B. CREATION
         Sec. 172.051.  APPLICABILITY. A county is eligible to
  create a district as provided by this chapter only if a rail line is
  located in the county that:
               (1)  is being or has been abandoned through a
  bankruptcy court or Surface Transportation Board proceeding; or
               (2)  carries three million gross tons per mile per year
  or less. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c, Secs. 2(6) (part), 3(b), 3A(a)
  (part).)
         Sec. 172.052.  CREATION OF DISTRICT BY MORE THAN ONE COUNTY.
  (a)  The commissioners courts of two or more counties that are a
  contiguous area may by concurrent order:
               (1)  create a district; or
               (2)  provide for the re-creation of a district by the
  addition of one or more counties.
         (b)  The district consists of the territory of each county
  whose commissioners court adopts the concurrent order.
         (c)  Each concurrent order must:
               (1)  contain identical provisions for creation or
  re-creation;
               (2)  be adopted at the time of the creation or
  re-creation;
               (3)  declare the boundaries of the district as the
  boundaries of the counties included;
               (4)  designate the district's name; and
               (5)  designate the number of directors, which may not
  be less than four, and the manner of the directors' appointment by a
  commissioners court.
         (d)  The commissioners court of each county included in a
  district by order may provide for the district's dissolution if
  each commissioners court determines that the dissolution will not
  impair an obligation of any contract of the district.  The
  dissolution order is effective only on the creation or re-creation
  of another district in which each county included in the dissolving
  district is included.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c, Secs. 2(3), (6)
  (part), 3(a), (c), (d).)
         Sec. 172.053.  CREATION OF DISTRICT BY ONE COUNTY. (a)  The
  commissioners court of a county may by order create a district in
  that county to develop, finance, maintain, and operate a new rail
  system under this chapter and for other purposes of this chapter.
         (b)  The boundaries of a district created under this section
  are the boundaries of the county in which the district is created.
         (c)  At the time the district is created, the commissioners
  court shall:
               (1)  designate the district's name; and
               (2)  appoint at least four residents of the county to
  serve as directors.
         (d)  The commissioners court of the county by order may
  provide for the district's dissolution if the commissioners court
  determines that the dissolution will not impair an obligation of
  any contract of the district.  The dissolution order is effective
  only on the creation of another district in which the county is
  included.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c, Secs. 3A(a) (part), (b), (c),
  (f).)
         Sec. 172.054.  NOTICE OF CREATION. (a)  The board of each
  newly created district shall provide notice to the Texas
  Transportation Institute of the district's creation.
         (b)  On being notified by the board, the Texas Transportation
  Institute shall make available to the board a guide to the services
  and information that the institute provides. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c,
  Sec. 3(f).)
         Sec. 172.055.  AUTOMATIC ASSUMPTION OF CONTRACTUAL
  OBLIGATIONS AFTER CREATION BY CERTAIN DISTRICTS.  A district
  created or re-created under Section 172.052 automatically assumes
  any obligation of a contract executed by the district or a
  predecessor district that is in force on the date of the creation or
  re-creation unless the contract expressly expires on the date of
  dissolution or re-creation of the district that executed the
  contract. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c, Sec. 3(e).)
  [Sections 172.056-172.100 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER C. BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND EMPLOYEES
         Sec. 172.101.  CONTROL OF DISTRICT.  (a)  The board is
  responsible for the management, operation, and control of the
  district.
         (b)  The right to control and regulate district affairs is
  vested exclusively in the board except as specifically otherwise
  provided by this chapter. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c, Secs. 4(a), (d)
  (part).)
         Sec. 172.102.  TERMS. (a) A director serves a two-year
  term.
         (b)  An initial director serves a term ending on the second
  anniversary of the date:
               (1)  the latest concurrent order creating or
  re-creating the district under Section 172.052 was adopted; or
               (2)  an order creating the district under Section
  172.053 was adopted.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c, Secs. 3A(d), 4(b)
  (part).)
         Sec. 172.103.  QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE. (a)  To be
  eligible for appointment as a director, a person must be a resident
  of the county governed by the commissioners court that appoints the
  person.
         (b)  An elected officer of this state or a political
  subdivision of this state who is not prohibited by the Texas
  Constitution from serving on the board is eligible to serve on the
  board. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c, Secs. 3A(c) (part), (e), 4(b) (part),
  (g).)
         Sec. 172.104.  VACANCY.  The commissioners court that
  appointed a director who vacates the position shall appoint a
  director for the unexpired term. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c, Secs. 3A(e),
  4(b) (part).)
         Sec. 172.105.  REMOVAL. (a)  The commissioners court that
  appointed a director may remove the director from office for
  neglect of duty or malfeasance in office after:
               (1)  at least 10 days' written notice to the director;
  and
               (2)  a hearing before the commissioners court.
         (b)  At the hearing on the question of removal of a director,
  the director is entitled to be heard in person or through counsel.
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c, Secs. 3A(e), 4(b) (part).)
         Sec. 172.106.  OFFICERS. The board shall select a
  president, vice president, treasurer, and secretary.  The secretary
  is not required to be a director. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c, Secs. 3A(e),
  4(c) (part).)
         Sec. 172.107.  MEETINGS; NOTICE. (a)  The board shall hold
  at least one regular meeting each month to conduct district
  business.
         (b)  The president may call a special board meeting.
         (c)  Chapter 551, Government Code, applies to board
  meetings, except that notice of a board meeting shall be posted at
  the administrative office of the district and at the courthouse in
  the county in which that office is located. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c,
  Secs. 3A(e), 4(c) (part), (f).)
         Sec. 172.108.  RULES FOR PROCEEDINGS. The board shall adopt
  rules for its proceedings. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c, Sec. 4(d) (part).)
         Sec. 172.109.  EMPLOYEES.  The board may employ and
  compensate persons to carry out the powers and duties of the
  district. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c, Sec. 4(d) (part).)
         Sec. 172.110.  PECUNIARY INTEREST IN CERTAIN CONTRACTS
  PROHIBITED.  A district employee may not have a direct or indirect
  pecuniary interest in any contract or agreement to which the
  district is a party. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c, Sec. 4(e).)
  [Sections 172.111-172.150 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER D.  GENERAL POWERS AND DUTIES
         Sec. 172.151.  GENERAL POWERS OF DISTRICT; GOVERNMENTAL
  FUNCTIONS.  (a)  A district has all powers necessary or convenient
  to carry out the purposes of this chapter.
         (b)  A district may generally perform all acts necessary for
  the full exercise of the district's powers.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c,
  Secs. 5(a) (part), (k) (part).)
         Sec. 172.152.  RULES.  To protect the state's health,
  safety, and general welfare, a district may adopt rules to govern
  the operation of the district, its employees, the rail facilities,
  service provided by the district, and any other necessary matter
  concerning its purposes, including rules regarding health, safety,
  alcohol or beverage service, food service, or telephone or utility
  service. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c, Sec. 5(h).)
         Sec. 172.153.  AGREEMENTS GENERALLY.  A district may make
  contracts, leases, and agreements with the United States, this
  state and its agencies and political subdivisions, public or
  private corporations, and any other person.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c,
  Sec. 5(k) (part).)
         Sec. 172.154.  AGREEMENTS WITH OTHER ENTITIES FOR JOINT USE.
  A district may:
               (1)  enter into agreements with a public utility,
  private utility, communication system, common carrier, or
  transportation system for the joint use of its facilities,
  installations, or property inside or outside the district; and
               (2)  establish:
                     (A)  through routes;
                     (B)  joint fares; and
                     (C)  divisions of tariffs, subject to approval of
  a tariff-regulating body that has jurisdiction.  (V.A.C.S. Art.
  6550c, Sec. 5(g).)
         Sec. 172.155.  JOINT OWNERSHIP AGREEMENTS.  A district may
  enter into a joint ownership agreement with any person.  (V.A.C.S.
  Art. 6550c, Sec. 5(i).)
         Sec. 172.156.  AWARDING CONSTRUCTION OR PURCHASE CONTRACTS.  
  (a)  A contract in the amount of more than $15,000 for the
  construction of improvements or the purchase of material,
  machinery, equipment, supplies, or any other property except real
  property may be awarded only through competitive bidding after
  notice is published in a newspaper of general circulation in the
  district at least 15 days before the date set for receiving bids.
         (b)  A board may adopt rules governing the taking of bids and
  the awarding of contracts.
         (c)  This section does not apply to:
               (1)  personal or professional services; or
               (2)  the acquisition of an existing rail transportation
  system. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c, Sec. 7.)
         Sec. 172.157.  EMINENT DOMAIN.  (a)  A district may exercise
  the power of eminent domain to acquire:
               (1)  land in fee simple; or
               (2)  any interest less than fee simple in, on, under, or
  above land, including an easement, right-of-way, or right of use of
  airspace or subsurface space.
         (b)  A district may not exercise the power of eminent domain
  in a manner that would unduly interfere with interstate commerce.
         (c)  An eminent domain proceeding brought by a district is
  governed by Chapter 21, Property Code, except to the extent
  inconsistent with this chapter.
         (d)  An eminent domain proceeding is begun by the board's
  adoption of a resolution declaring that the district's acquisition
  of the property or interest described in the resolution:
               (1)  is a public necessity; and
               (2)  is necessary and proper for the construction,
  extension, improvement, or development of rail facilities and is in
  the public interest.
         (e)  The resolution is conclusive evidence of the public
  necessity of the proposed acquisition and that the real property or
  interest in property is necessary for public use. (V.A.C.S.
  Art. 6550c, Sec. 5(f).)
         Sec. 172.158.  DISPOSITION OF SURPLUS PROPERTY.  (a)  A
  district may sell, lease, convey, or otherwise dispose of any
  right, interest, or property not needed for or, in the case of a
  lease, not inconsistent with the efficient operation and
  maintenance of the system.
         (b)  A district may, on adoption of an order by the board,
  sell, lease, or otherwise dispose of surplus property not needed
  for district requirements or to carry out district powers under
  this chapter.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c, Sec. 5(l).)
         Sec. 172.159.  SUITS. (a)  A district may:
               (1)  sue and be sued;
               (2)  institute and prosecute suits without giving
  security for costs; and
               (3)  appeal from a judgment without giving a
  supersedeas or cost bond.
         (b)  An action at law or in equity against the district must
  be brought in the county in which the principal office of the
  district is located, except that a suit in eminent domain must be
  brought in the county in which the land is located.  (V.A.C.S. Art.
  6550c, Sec. 5(c).)
         Sec. 172.160.  PERPETUAL SUCCESSION.  A district has
  perpetual succession.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c, Sec. 5(b).)
  [Sections 172.161-172.200 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER E.  POWERS AND DUTIES RELATING TO ACQUISITION,
  CONSTRUCTION, AND OPERATION OF RAIL FACILITIES
         Sec. 172.201.  GENERAL AUTHORITY OVER RAIL FACILITIES. A
  district may plan, acquire, construct, complete, develop, own,
  operate, and maintain rail facilities inside or outside the
  district. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c, Sec. 5(e) (part).)
         Sec. 172.202.  USE AND ALTERATION OF PROPERTY OF ANOTHER
  POLITICAL SUBDIVISION.  For a purpose described by Section 172.201,
  as necessary or useful in the construction, reconstruction, repair,
  maintenance, and operation of rail facilities, and subject to a
  grant previously secured or with the consent of a municipality,
  county, or other political subdivision, a district may:
               (1)  use streets, alleys, roads, highways, and other
  public ways of the political subdivision; and
               (2)  relocate, raise, reroute, change the grade of, or
  alter, at the district's expense, the construction of a publicly
  owned or privately owned street, alley, highway, road, railroad,
  electric line or facility, telegraph or telephone property or
  facility, pipeline or facility, conduit or facility, and other
  property. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c, Sec. 5(e) (part).)
         Sec. 172.203.  RULES GOVERNING SYSTEM; ROUTINGS.  A district
  by resolution may adopt rules governing the use, operation, and
  maintenance of the system and shall determine all routings and
  change them when the board considers it advisable. (V.A.C.S. Art.
  6550c, Sec. 5(m).)
         Sec. 172.204.  ACQUISITION OF PROPERTY.  (a)  A district may
  purchase, whenever the district considers the purchase expedient,
  land, property rights, right-of-way, franchises, easements, and
  other interests in land the district considers necessary to
  acquire, construct, or operate a rail facility on terms and at a
  price to which the district and the owner agree.
         (b)  The district may take title to the land or interest in
  the district's name.
         (c)  The governing body of a municipality, a county, any
  other political subdivision, or a public agency may convey without
  advertisement the title or the rights and easements to property
  needed by the district for its purposes in connection with the
  acquisition, construction, or operation of rail facilities.
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c, Sec. 5(e) (part).)
         Sec. 172.205.  POWERS RELATING TO DISTRICT PROPERTY. A
  district may acquire by grant, purchase, gift, devise, lease, or
  otherwise and may hold, use, sell, lease, or dispose of property,
  including a license, a patent, a right, or an interest, necessary,
  convenient, or useful for the full exercise of its powers under this
  chapter.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c, Sec. 5(d).)
         Sec. 172.206.  ACQUISITION OF ROLLING STOCK AND OTHER
  PROPERTY.  A district may acquire rolling stock or other property,
  under a conditional sales contract, lease, equipment trust
  certificate, or other form of contract or trust agreement.
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c, Sec. 5(k) (part).)
         Sec. 172.207.  COMPENSATION FOR USE OF SYSTEM FACILITIES.  
  (a)  A district shall establish and maintain reasonable and
  nondiscriminatory rents or other compensation for the use of the
  facilities of the system acquired, constructed, operated,
  regulated, or maintained by the district.
         (b)  Together with grants received by the district, the rents
  or other compensation must be sufficient to produce revenue
  adequate to:
               (1)  pay all expenses necessary for the operation and
  maintenance of the district's property and facilities;
               (2)  pay the principal of and interest on all bonds
  issued by the district payable wholly or partly from the revenue, as
  they become due and payable; and
               (3)  fulfill the terms of agreements made with the
  holders of bonds or with any person on their behalf. (V.A.C.S.
  Art. 6550c, Sec. 5(j).)
         Sec. 172.208.  OPERATION OR USE CONTRACTS.  (a)  A district
  may:
               (1)  lease all or part of the rail facilities to any
  operator; or
               (2)  contract for the use or operation of all or part of
  the rail facilities by any operator.
         (b)  To the maximum extent practicable, the district shall
  encourage the participation of private enterprise in the operation
  of rail facilities.
         (c)  The term of an operating contract under this section may
  not exceed 20 years.  In this subsection, "operating contract" 
  means a professional services contract executed by a district and
  another person under which the person agrees to provide all or part
  of the:
               (1)  rolling stock required for operation as a common
  carrier over all or a part of the rail facilities of the district;
  and
               (2)  personnel required for the operation of the
  rolling stock owned or leased by the district or for the operation
  of the rail facilities of the district.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c,
  Secs. 2(7), 5(n).)
         Sec. 172.209.  RAIL TRANSPORTATION SERVICES AGREEMENTS WITH
  OTHER POLITICAL SUBDIVISIONS.  A district may contract with a
  county or other political subdivision of this state for the
  district to provide rail transportation services to an area outside
  the district on terms to which the parties agree.  (V.A.C.S. Art.
  6550c, Sec. 5(o).)
         Sec. 172.210.  ABANDONMENT OF RAIL LINE. (a)  A district may
  not abandon a district rail line for which state money has been
  loaned or granted unless the abandonment is approved by the
  commission as being consistent with the policies of this chapter.
         (b)  The commission by rule shall adopt procedures for
  applying for and obtaining approval for abandonment under this
  section. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c, Sec. 5(r).)
  [Sections 172.211-172.250 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER F. FINANCIAL PROVISIONS
         Sec. 172.251.  FISCAL YEAR.  (a)  Unless the board changes
  the fiscal year, the district's fiscal year ends on September 30.
         (b)  The board may not change the fiscal year more than once
  in a three-year period.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c, Sec. 5(p) (part).)
         Sec. 172.252.  ANNUAL BUDGET. (a)  Before beginning the
  operation of rail facilities, the board shall adopt an annual
  operating budget specifying the district's anticipated revenue and
  expenses for the remainder of the fiscal year.  The district shall
  adopt an operating budget for each succeeding fiscal year.
         (b)  The board must hold a public hearing before adopting
  each budget except the initial budget.  Notice of the hearing must
  be published at least seven days before the date of the hearing in a
  newspaper of general circulation in the district.
         (c)  A budget may be amended at any time if notice of the
  proposed amendment is given in the notice of meeting.
         (d)  An expenditure that is not budgeted may not be made.  
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c, Sec. 5(p) (part).)
         Sec. 172.253.  GRANTS AND LOANS.  A district may accept a
  grant or loan from the United States, this state and its agencies
  and political subdivisions, public or private corporations, and any
  other person.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c, Sec. 5(k) (part).)
         Sec. 172.254.  DEPOSITORY.  (a)  The board by resolution
  shall name one or more banks for the deposit of district funds.
         (b)  District funds are public funds and may be invested in
  securities permitted by Chapter 2256, Government Code.
         (c)  To the extent district funds are not insured by the
  Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or its successor, the funds
  shall be collateralized in the manner provided for county funds.
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c, Sec. 5(q).)
         Sec. 172.255.  APPLICABILITY OF PUBLIC PROPERTY FINANCING
  LAW; PROHIBITION ON AD VALOREM TAX.  A district may use the
  procedures provided by Chapter 271, Local Government Code, to
  finance the district's rail facilities, except to the extent of a
  conflict with this chapter, and except that the district may not
  impose an ad valorem tax. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c, Sec. 6A(a).)
         Sec. 172.256.  NONNEGOTIABLE PURCHASE MONEY NOTES; BOND
  ANTICIPATION NOTES. (a)  A district may:
               (1)  issue nonnegotiable purchase money notes, payable
  in installments and secured by the property being acquired or
  constructed, to acquire or construct rail facilities; or
               (2)  secure the obligation of the notes by a pledge or
  by issuing bonds, including bond anticipation notes.
         (b)  A district may covenant with the purchaser of bond
  anticipation notes that the proceeds of one or more particular
  series of bonds will be used for the ultimate payment of the
  purchase money notes or bond anticipation notes. (V.A.C.S.
  Art. 6550c, Sec. 6A(b).)
         Sec. 172.257.  TAX EXEMPTION. District property and revenue
  and the interest on bonds issued by the district are exempt from any
  tax imposed by this state or a political subdivision of this state.
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c, Sec. 8.)
  [Sections 172.258-172.300 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER G.  BONDS
         Sec. 172.301.  REVENUE BONDS.  A district, by board
  resolution, may issue revenue bonds in amounts that the board
  considers necessary or appropriate for the acquisition, purchase,
  construction, reconstruction, repair, equipping, improvement, or
  extension of its rail facilities.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c, Secs. 6(a)
  (part), (e).)
         Sec. 172.302.  SECURITY FOR PAYMENT OF BONDS.  (a)  To secure
  payment of district bonds, the district may:
               (1)  encumber and pledge all or part of the revenue of
  its rail facilities; and
               (2)  encumber all or part of the property of the rail
  facilities and everything pertaining to them acquired or to be
  acquired.
         (b)  Unless prohibited by the resolution or indenture
  relating to outstanding bonds, a district may encumber separately
  any item of property. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c, Sec. 6(c) (part).)
         Sec. 172.303.  BONDS AS AUTHORIZED INVESTMENTS AND SECURITY
  FOR DEPOSITS OF PUBLIC FUNDS. (a) District bonds are legal and
  authorized investments for:
               (1)  a bank;
               (2)  a trust company;
               (3)  a savings and loan association; and
               (4)  an insurance company.
         (b)  The bonds are:
               (1)  eligible to secure the deposit of public funds of
  this state or a municipality, a county, a school district, or any
  other political corporation or subdivision of this state; and
               (2)  lawful and sufficient security for the deposit to
  the extent of the principal amount or market value of the bonds,
  whichever is less. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c, Sec. 6(d).)
         Sec. 172.304.  APPLICABILITY OF PUBLIC IMPROVEMENT
  FINANCING LAW.  For purposes of Chapter 1371, Government Code:
               (1)  a district is an issuer; and
               (2)  the acquisition, improvement, or repair of rail
  facilities by a district is an eligible project.  (V.A.C.S. Art.
  6550c, Sec. 5(a) (part).)
         Sec. 172.305.  LIMIT ON POWER.  A revenue bond indenture may
  limit the exercise of the power granted by Section 172.002,
  172.151, 172.152, 172.153, 172.154, 172.155, 172.157, 172.158,
  172.159, 172.160, 172.201, 172.202, 172.203, 172.204, 172.205,
  172.206, 172.207, 172.208, 172.209, 172.210, 172.251, 172.252,
  172.253, 172.254, or 172.304. The limitation applies while any of
  the revenue bonds issued under the indenture are outstanding and
  unpaid. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c, Sec. 5(k) (part).)
         Sec. 172.306.  EXEMPTION FROM REVIEW OF NOTES BY ATTORNEY
  GENERAL. District notes authorized to be issued to an agency of the
  federal or state government, and related records, are not required
  to be submitted to the attorney general for examination under
  Chapter 1202, Government Code.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c, Sec. 6(b)
  (part).)
  CHAPTER 173. INTERMUNICIPAL COMMUTER RAIL DISTRICTS
  SUBCHAPTER A. GENERAL PROVISIONS
  Sec. 173.001.  DEFINITION OF PERSON 
  Sec. 173.002.  DEFINITIONS 
  Sec. 173.003.  LOCATION OF MUNICIPALITY IN COUNTY 
  Sec. 173.004.  NATURE OF DISTRICT 
  Sec. 173.005.  SUNSET PROVISION 
  [Sections 173.006-173.050 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER B. CREATION
  Sec. 173.051.  CREATION OF DISTRICT 
  Sec. 173.052.  ADDITION OF POLITICAL SUBDIVISION TO
                  DISTRICT 
  [Sections 173.053-173.100 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER C. BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND EMPLOYEES
  Sec. 173.101.  CONTROL OF DISTRICT 
  Sec. 173.102.  COMPOSITION OF BOARD; TERMS 
  Sec. 173.103.  VACANCY 
  Sec. 173.104.  PRESIDING OFFICER 
  Sec. 173.105.  MEETINGS 
  Sec. 173.106.  BOARD MEETINGS BY TELEPHONE OR
                  VIDEOCONFERENCE 
  Sec. 173.107.  RULES FOR PROCEEDINGS 
  Sec. 173.108.  COMPENSATION; REIMBURSEMENT 
  Sec. 173.109.  EMPLOYEES 
  Sec. 173.110.  EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 
  Sec. 173.111.  RETIREMENT BENEFITS 
  [Sections 173.112-173.150 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER D. GENERAL POWERS AND DUTIES
  Sec. 173.151.  GENERAL POWERS OF DISTRICT 
  Sec. 173.152.  RULES 
  Sec. 173.153.  AGREEMENTS GENERALLY 
  Sec. 173.154.  AGREEMENTS WITH OTHER ENTITIES FOR JOINT
                  USE 
  Sec. 173.155.  JOINT OWNERSHIP AGREEMENTS 
  Sec. 173.156.  EXCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENTS 
  Sec. 173.157.  INTERLOCAL AGREEMENTS WITH COMMISSION 
  Sec. 173.158.  AWARDING CONSTRUCTION OR PURCHASE
                  CONTRACTS 
  Sec. 173.159.  EMINENT DOMAIN 
  Sec. 173.160.  SUITS 
  [Sections 173.161-173.200 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER E. POWERS AND DUTIES RELATING TO ACQUISITION, CONSTRUCTION, AND OPERATION OF COMMUTER RAIL FACILITIES
  CONSTRUCTION, AND OPERATION OF COMMUTER RAIL FACILITIES
  Sec. 173.201.  GENERAL AUTHORITY OVER COMMUTER RAIL
                  FACILITIES 
  Sec. 173.202.  POWERS RELATING TO DISTRICT PROPERTY 
  Sec. 173.203.  USE AND ALTERATION OF PROPERTY OF
                  ANOTHER POLITICAL SUBDIVISION 
  Sec. 173.204.  RULES GOVERNING SYSTEM AND ROUTINGS 
  Sec. 173.205.  ACQUISITION OF PROPERTY 
  Sec. 173.206.  ACQUISITION OF ROLLING STOCK AND OTHER
                  PROPERTY 
  Sec. 173.207.  COMPENSATION FOR USE OF SYSTEM
                  FACILITIES 
  Sec. 173.208.  OPERATION OR USE CONTRACTS 
  Sec. 173.209.  RAIL TRANSPORTATION SERVICES AGREEMENTS
                  WITH OTHER POLITICAL SUBDIVISIONS 
  [Sections 173.210-173.250 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER F. FINANCIAL PROVISIONS
  Sec. 173.251.  FISCAL YEAR 
  Sec. 173.252.  ANNUAL BUDGET 
  Sec. 173.253.  GRANTS AND LOANS 
  Sec. 173.254.  DEPOSITORY 
  Sec. 173.255.  PURCHASE OF ADDITIONAL INSURED
                  PROVISIONS 
  Sec. 173.256.  FINANCING OF CERTAIN TRANSPORTATION
                  INFRASTRUCTURE 
  Sec. 173.257.  TAX EXEMPTION 
  [Sections 173.258-173.300 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER G. BONDS
  Sec. 173.301.  REVENUE BONDS 
  Sec. 173.302.  SECURITY FOR PAYMENT OF BONDS 
  Sec. 173.303.  BONDS AS AUTHORIZED INVESTMENTS AND SECURITY FOR
                  DEPOSITS OF PUBLIC FUNDS 
  Sec. 173.304.  LIMIT ON POWER 
  [Sections 173.305-173.350 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER H. SALES AND USE TAXES
  Sec. 173.351.  TAX AUTHORIZED 
  Sec. 173.352.  TAX RATE 
  Sec. 173.353.  PREEMPTION OF OTHER SALES AND USE TAXES 
  Sec. 173.354.  APPLICABILITY OF TAX CODE 
  Sec. 173.355.  NOTICE TO COMPTROLLER 
  Sec. 173.356.  NOTICE TO LOCAL GOVERNMENTS 
  Sec. 173.357.  ACQUISITION OF ADDITIONAL TERRITORY
                  SUBJECT TO TAX 
  Sec. 173.358.  DUTY OF COMPTROLLER 
  Sec. 173.359.  EFFECTIVE DATE OF TAX 
  CHAPTER 173. INTERMUNICIPAL COMMUTER RAIL DISTRICTS
  SUBCHAPTER A. GENERAL PROVISIONS
         Sec. 173.001.  DEFINITION OF PERSON.  In this chapter:
               (1)  "person" includes a corporation, as provided by
  Section 312.011, Government Code; and
               (2)  the definition of "person" assigned by Section
  311.005, Government Code, does not apply. (New.)
         Sec. 173.002.  DEFINITIONS. In this chapter:
               (1)  "Board" means a district's board of directors.
               (2)  "Commuter rail facility" means any property
  necessary for the transportation of passengers and baggage between
  locations in a district.  The term includes rolling stock,
  locomotives, stations, parking areas, and rail lines.
               (3)  "Creating municipality" means a municipality
  described by Section 173.051(a).
               (4)  "Director" means a board member.
               (5)  "District" means an intermunicipal commuter rail
  district created under this chapter or under Article 6550c-1,
  Revised Statutes, as that article existed before April 1, 2011.
               (6)  "District property" means property the district
  owns or leases under a long-term lease.
               (7)  "System" means all of the commuter rail and
  intermodal facilities leased or owned by or operated on behalf of a
  district. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-1, Secs. 1(2), (3), (5), (6), (7);
  New.)
         Sec. 173.003.  LOCATION OF MUNICIPALITY IN COUNTY.  For
  purposes of this chapter, a municipality is located in a county only
  if 90 percent or more of the population of the municipality resides
  in that county. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-1, Sec. 2(d).)
         Sec. 173.004.  NATURE OF DISTRICT. (a) A district is a public
  body and a political subdivision of this state exercising public
  and essential governmental functions.
         (b)  A district, in the exercise of powers under this
  chapter, is performing only governmental functions and is a
  governmental unit under Chapter 101, Civil Practice and Remedies
  Code.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-1, Sec. 4(a) (part).)
         Sec. 173.005.  SUNSET PROVISION. A district is subject every
  12th year to review under Chapter 325, Government Code (Texas
  Sunset Act). (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-1, Sec. 4(b).)
  [Sections 173.006-173.050 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER B. CREATION
         Sec. 173.051.  CREATION OF DISTRICT.  (a)  A district may be
  created to provide commuter rail service between two
  municipalities:
                     (1)  each of which has a population of more than
  450,000; and
                     (2)  that are located not farther than 100 miles
  apart as determined by the department.
         (b)  The creating municipalities and the counties in which
  the creating municipalities are located may create a district on
  passage of a resolution favoring creation by the governing body of
  each municipality or county. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-1, Secs. 2(a),
  (b).)
         Sec. 173.052.  ADDITION OF POLITICAL SUBDIVISION TO
  DISTRICT. The following political subdivisions may become a part
  of a district with the approval of the governing body of the
  political subdivision:
               (1)  a county located adjacent to the county in which a
  creating municipality is located; and
               (2)  a municipality with a population of more than
  18,000 located in a county described by Subdivision (1). (V.A.C.S.
  Art. 6550c-1, Sec. 2(c).)
  [Sections 173.053-173.100 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER C. BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND EMPLOYEES
         Sec. 173.101.  CONTROL OF DISTRICT.  A district is governed
  by a board of directors.  The board is responsible for the
  management, operation, and control of the district.  (V.A.C.S. Art.
  6550c-1, Sec. 3(a).)
         Sec. 173.102.  COMPOSITION OF BOARD; TERMS.  (a)  The board
  is composed of:
               (1)  two public directors appointed by the commission;
               (2)  one elected member of the governing body of each
  political subdivision that has become a part of the district under
  Subchapter B;
               (3)  one elected director appointed by the regional
  planning organization of which a creating municipality is a part;
               (4)  one director appointed by each creating
  municipality to represent the business community of the
  municipality;
               (5)  one director appointed by each authority created
  under Chapter 451 that serves a creating municipality;
               (6)  one director appointed by each county in which a
  creating municipality is located to represent transportation
  providers that provide service to rural areas in the county; and
               (7)  one director appointed by all other directors to
  represent all municipalities in the district that do not otherwise
  have representation on the board who is an elected official of one
  of those municipalities.
         (b)  Each director serves a staggered two-year term, with as
  near as possible to half of the directors' terms expiring February 1
  of each year. If one or more directors are added to the board, the
  directors other than the new directors shall determine the lengths
  of the new directors' terms so that one-half, or as near one-half as
  possible, of the directors serve terms expiring each year.
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-1, Secs. 3(b), (c) (part).)
         Sec. 173.103.  VACANCY. A vacancy on the board shall be
  filled in the same manner as the original appointment or election.
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-1, Sec. 3(c) (part).)
         Sec. 173.104.  PRESIDING OFFICER. (a)  The directors shall
  elect one member as presiding officer.
         (b)  The presiding officer may select another director to
  preside in the absence of the presiding officer. (V.A.C.S. Art.
  6550c-1, Sec. 3(d).)
         Sec. 173.105.  MEETINGS. The presiding officer shall call
  at least one meeting of the board each year and may hold other
  meetings as the presiding officer determines are appropriate.
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-1, Sec. 3(e).)
         Sec. 173.106.  BOARD MEETINGS BY TELEPHONE OR
  VIDEOCONFERENCE.  (a)  Chapter 551, Government Code, does not
  prohibit the board from holding an open or closed meeting by
  telephone conference call or videoconference.
         (b)  A meeting held by telephone conference call or
  videoconference need not have a quorum present at any one location.
         (c)  A telephone conference call or videoconference meeting
  is subject to the notice requirements applicable to other meetings.
         (d)  The notice of a telephone conference call or
  videoconference meeting must specify each location of the meeting
  where a director will participate and the physical location where
  the presiding officer of the board will preside. Each of those
  locations must be open to the public during the open portion of the
  meeting.
         (e)  Each part of a telephone conference call meeting that is
  required to be open to the public must be audible to the public at
  each meeting location specified in the notice of the meeting and
  shall be tape recorded. The district shall make the tape recording
  available to the public.
         (f)  Each part of a videoconference meeting that is required
  to be open to the public must:
               (1)  be visible and audible to the public at each
  meeting location specified in the notice of the meeting; and
               (2)  have two-way audio and video communications with
  each participant in the meeting during the entire meeting.
         (g)  Without regard to whether a director is participating in
  a meeting from a remote location by videoconference call, the board
  may allow a member of the public to testify at a meeting from a
  remote location by videoconference call. The board shall designate
  the location for public participation in the notice of the meeting.  
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-1, Sec. 3A.)
         Sec. 173.107.  RULES FOR PROCEEDINGS. The board shall adopt
  rules for its proceedings.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-1, Sec. 3(g)
  (part).)
         Sec. 173.108.  COMPENSATION; REIMBURSEMENT. A director is
  not entitled to compensation for serving as a director but is
  entitled to reimbursement for reasonable expenses incurred while
  serving as a director. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-1, Sec. 3(f).)
         Sec. 173.109.  EMPLOYEES. The board may employ and
  compensate persons to carry out the powers and duties of the
  district. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-1, Sec. 3(g) (part).)
         Sec. 173.110.  EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE. The board shall appoint
  an executive committee. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-1, Sec. 3(g) (part).)
         Sec. 173.111.  RETIREMENT BENEFITS.  A district is eligible
  to participate in the Texas County and District Retirement System.
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-1, Sec. 4(q).)
  [Sections 173.112-173.150 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER D. GENERAL POWERS AND DUTIES
         Sec. 173.151.  GENERAL POWERS OF DISTRICT. (a)  A district
  has all the powers necessary or convenient to carry out the purposes
  of this chapter.
         (b)  A district may generally perform all acts necessary for
  the full exercise of the district's powers.  (V.A.C.S. Art.
  6550c-1, Secs. 4(a) (part), (k) (part).)
         Sec. 173.152.  RULES.  To protect district residents'
  health, safety, and general welfare, a district may adopt rules to
  govern the operation of the district, its employees, the system,
  service provided by the district, and any other necessary matter
  concerning its purposes, including rules regarding health, safety,
  alcohol or beverage service, food service, or telephone or utility
  service. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-1, Sec. 4(h).)
         Sec. 173.153.  AGREEMENTS GENERALLY.  A district may make
  contracts, leases, and agreements with the United States, this
  state and its agencies and political subdivisions, public or
  private corporations, and any other person. (V.A.C.S. Art.
  6550c-1, Sec. 4(k) (part).)
         Sec. 173.154.  AGREEMENTS WITH OTHER ENTITIES FOR JOINT USE.  
  A district may:
               (1)  make agreements with a public utility, private
  utility, communication system, common carrier, state agency, or
  transportation system for the joint use of facilities,
  installations, or property inside or outside the district; and
               (2)  establish:
                     (A)  through routes;
                     (B)  joint fares; and
                     (C)  divisions of tariffs, subject to approval of
  a tariff-regulating body that has jurisdiction. (V.A.C.S. Art.
  6550c-1, Sec. 4(g).)
         Sec. 173.155.  JOINT OWNERSHIP AGREEMENTS.  A district may
  make a joint ownership agreement with any person.  (V.A.C.S. Art.
  6550c-1, Sec. 4(i).)
         Sec. 173.156.  EXCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENTS.  (a)  A
  board may enter into an exclusive development agreement with a
  private entity.
         (b)  The exclusive development agreement:
               (1)  at a minimum must provide for the design and
  construction of a commuter rail facility or system; and
               (2)  may provide for the financing, acquisition,
  maintenance, or operation of a commuter rail facility or system.
         (c)  The board may adopt rules governing an agreement under
  this section. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-1, Sec. 6A.)
         Sec. 173.157.  INTERLOCAL AGREEMENTS WITH COMMISSION.  The
  commission may enter into an interlocal agreement with a district
  under which the district may exercise a power or duty of the
  commission for the development and efficient operation of
  intermodal corridors in the district. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-1, Sec.
  4(k) (part).)
         Sec. 173.158.  AWARDING CONSTRUCTION OR PURCHASE CONTRACTS.
  (a) A contract in the amount of more than $15,000 for the
  construction of improvements or the purchase of material,
  machinery, equipment, supplies, or any other property except real
  property may be awarded only through competitive bidding after
  notice is published in a newspaper of general circulation in the
  district at least 15 days before the date set for receiving bids.
         (b)  A board may adopt rules governing the taking of bids and
  the awarding of contracts.
         (c)  This section does not apply to:
               (1)  personal or professional services;
               (2)  the acquisition of an existing rail transportation
  system;
               (3)  a contract with a common carrier to construct
  lines and to operate commuter rail service on lines wholly or partly
  owned by the carrier; or
               (4)  an agreement with a private entity under Section
  173.156. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-1, Sec. 6.)
         Sec. 173.159.  EMINENT DOMAIN.  (a) A district may exercise
  the power of eminent domain to acquire:
               (1)  land in fee simple; or
               (2)  any interest less than fee simple in, on, under, or
  above land, including an easement, right-of-way, or right of use of
  airspace or subsurface space.
         (b)  The power of eminent domain under this section does not
  apply to:
               (1)  land under the jurisdiction of the department or a
  metropolitan transit authority; or
               (2)  a rail line owned by a common carrier or
  municipality.
         (c)  To the extent possible, the district shall use existing
  rail or intermodal transportation corridors for the alignment of
  its system.
         (d)  An eminent domain proceeding is begun by the board's
  adoption of a resolution declaring that the district's acquisition
  of the property or interest described in the resolution:
               (1)  is a public necessity; and
               (2)  is necessary and proper for the construction,
  extension, improvement, or development of commuter rail facilities
  and is in the public interest.
         (e)  The resolution is conclusive evidence of the public
  necessity of the proposed acquisition and that the real property or
  interest in property is necessary for public use. (V.A.C.S. Art.
  6550c-1, Sec. 4(f).)
         Sec. 173.160.  SUITS.  (a) A district may:
               (1)  sue and be sued;
               (2)  institute and prosecute suits without giving
  security for costs; and
               (3)  appeal from a judgment without giving a
  supersedeas or cost bond.
         (b)  An action at law or in equity against the district must
  be brought in the county in which a principal office of the district
  is located, except that a suit in eminent domain must be brought in
  the county in which the land is located. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-1,
  Sec. 4(c).)
  [Sections 173.161-173.200 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER E. POWERS AND DUTIES RELATING TO ACQUISITION,
  CONSTRUCTION, AND OPERATION OF COMMUTER RAIL FACILITIES
         Sec. 173.201.  GENERAL AUTHORITY OVER COMMUTER RAIL
  FACILITIES. A district may acquire, construct, develop, own,
  operate, and maintain intermodal and commuter rail facilities
  inside, or connect political subdivisions in, the district.  
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-1, Sec. 4(e) (part).)
         Sec. 173.202.  POWERS RELATING TO DISTRICT PROPERTY. A
  district may acquire by grant, purchase, gift, devise, lease, or
  otherwise and may hold, use, sell, lease, or dispose of property,
  including a license, a patent, a right, or an interest, necessary,
  convenient, or useful for the full exercise of its powers under this
  chapter. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-1, Sec. 4(d).)
         Sec. 173.203.  USE AND ALTERATION OF PROPERTY OF ANOTHER
  POLITICAL SUBDIVISION. (a)  For a purpose described by Section
  173.201, as necessary or useful in the construction,
  reconstruction, repair, maintenance, and operation of the system,
  and with the consent of a municipality, county, or other political
  subdivision, a district may:
               (1)  use streets, alleys, roads, highways, and other
  public ways of the political subdivision; and
               (2)  relocate, raise, reroute, change the grade of, or
  alter, at the district's expense, the construction of a publicly
  owned or privately owned street, alley, highway, road, railroad,
  electric line or facility, telegraph or telephone property or
  facility, pipeline or facility, conduit or facility, and other
  property.
         (b)  A district may not use or alter:
               (1)  a road or highway in the state highway system
  without the permission of the commission; or
               (2)  a railroad without permission of the railroad.  
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-1, Sec. 4(e) (part).)
         Sec. 173.204.  RULES GOVERNING SYSTEM AND ROUTINGS. A
  district by resolution may adopt rules governing the use,
  operation, and maintenance of the system and shall determine all
  routings and change them when the board considers it advisable.
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-1, Sec. 4(l).)
         Sec. 173.205.  ACQUISITION OF PROPERTY.  (a)  A district may
  purchase any interest in real property to acquire, construct, or
  operate a commuter rail facility on terms and at a price to which
  the district and the owner agree.
         (b)  The governing body of a municipality, a county, any
  other political subdivision, or a public agency may convey the
  title or the rights and easements to property needed by the district
  for its purposes in connection with the acquisition, construction,
  or operation of the system.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-1, Sec. 4(e)
  (part).)
         Sec. 173.206.  ACQUISITION OF ROLLING STOCK AND OTHER
  PROPERTY. A district may acquire rolling stock or other property
  under a conditional sales contract, lease, equipment trust
  certificate, or other form of contract or trust agreement.
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-1, Sec. 4(k) (part).)
         Sec. 173.207.  COMPENSATION FOR USE OF SYSTEM FACILITIES.  
  (a)  A district shall establish and maintain reasonable and
  nondiscriminatory rates or other compensation for the use of the
  facilities of the system acquired, constructed, operated,
  regulated, or maintained by the district.
         (b)  Together with grants received by the district, the rates
  or other compensation must be sufficient to produce revenue
  adequate to:
               (1)  pay all expenses necessary for the operation and
  maintenance of the district's property and facilities;
               (2)  pay the principal of and interest on all bonds
  issued by the district under this chapter payable wholly or partly
  from the revenue, as they become due and payable; and
               (3)  fulfill the terms of agreements made with the
  holders of bonds or with any person on their behalf. (V.A.C.S. Art.
  6550c-1, Sec. 4(j).)
         Sec. 173.208.  OPERATION OR USE CONTRACTS. (a) A district
  may:
               (1)  lease all or part of the commuter rail facilities
  to any operator; or
               (2)  contract for the use or operation of all or part of
  the commuter rail facilities by any operator.
         (b)  To the maximum extent practicable, the district shall
  encourage the participation of private enterprise in the operation
  of commuter rail facilities.
         (c)  The term of an operating contract under this section may
  not exceed 20 years. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-1, Sec. 4(m).)
         Sec. 173.209.  RAIL TRANSPORTATION SERVICES AGREEMENTS WITH
  OTHER POLITICAL SUBDIVISIONS. A district may contract with a county
  or other political subdivision of this state for the district to
  provide commuter rail transportation services to an area outside
  the district on terms to which the parties agree. (V.A.C.S. Art.
  6550c-1, Sec. 4(n).)
  [Sections 173.210-173.250 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER F. FINANCIAL PROVISIONS
         Sec. 173.251.  FISCAL YEAR. Unless the board changes the
  fiscal year, the district's fiscal year ends on September 30.  
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-1, Sec. 4(p) (part).)
         Sec. 173.252.  ANNUAL BUDGET. (a) Before beginning the
  operation of commuter rail facilities, the board shall adopt an
  annual operating budget specifying the district's anticipated
  revenue and expenses for the remainder of the fiscal year. The
  district shall adopt an operating budget for each succeeding fiscal
  year.
         (b)  The board must hold a public hearing before adopting
  each budget except the initial budget. Notice of the hearing must
  be published at least seven days before the date of the hearing in a
  newspaper of general circulation in the district.
         (c)  A budget may be amended at any time if notice of the
  proposed amendment is given in the notice of meeting.
         (d)  An expenditure that is not budgeted may not be made.
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-1, Sec. 4(p) (part).)
         Sec. 173.253.  GRANTS AND LOANS. A district may accept
  grants and loans from the United States, this state and its agencies
  and political subdivisions, public or private corporations, and
  other persons.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-1, Sec. 4(k) (part).)
         Sec. 173.254.  DEPOSITORY. (a) The board by resolution
  shall name one or more banks for the deposit of district funds.
         (b)  District funds are public funds and may be invested in
  securities permitted by Chapter 2256, Government Code.
         (c)  To the extent district funds are not insured by the
  Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or its successor, the funds
  shall be collateralized in the manner provided for county funds.
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-1, Sec. 4(r).)
         Sec. 173.255.  PURCHASE OF ADDITIONAL INSURED PROVISIONS. A
  district may purchase an additional insured provision to any
  liability insurance contract. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-1, Sec. 4(o).)
         Sec. 173.256.  FINANCING OF CERTAIN TRANSPORTATION
  INFRASTRUCTURE. (a)  This section applies only to a local
  government, other than a school district, that is a member of a
  district and that is authorized to impose ad valorem taxes on real
  property.
         (b)  A district may enter into an interlocal contract with a
  local government member for the financing of transportation
  infrastructure that is constructed or that is to be constructed in
  the territory of the local government by the district.
         (c)  The agreement must include:
               (1)  the duration of the agreement;
               (2)  a description of each transportation
  infrastructure project or proposed project;
               (3)  a map showing the location of each project; and
               (4)  an estimate of the cost of each project.
         (d)  The agreement may establish one or more transportation
  infrastructure zones. The district and the local government may
  agree that, at one or more specified times, the local government
  will pay to the district an amount that is calculated on the basis
  of increased ad valorem tax collections in a zone that are
  attributable to increased values of property located in the zone
  resulting from an infrastructure project. The amount may not
  exceed an amount that is equal to 30 percent of the increase in ad
  valorem tax collections for the specified period.
         (e)  Money received by the district under this section may be
  used:
               (1)  to provide a local match for the acquisition of
  right-of-way in the territory of the local government; or
               (2)  for design, construction, operation, or
  maintenance of transportation facilities in the territory of the
  local government. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-1, Sec. 8.)
         Sec. 173.257.  TAX EXEMPTION. District property, material
  purchases, revenue, and income and the interest on bonds and notes
  issued by the district are exempt from any tax imposed by this state
  or a political subdivision of this state. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-1,
  Sec. 7.)
         [Sections 173.258-173.300 reserved for expansion]
         SUBCHAPTER G. BONDS
         Sec. 173.301.  REVENUE BONDS. A district may issue revenue
  bonds and notes in amounts that the board considers necessary or
  appropriate for the acquisition, purchase, construction,
  reconstruction, repair, equipping, improvement, or extension of
  its commuter rail facilities. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-1, Sec. 5(a)
  (part).)
         Sec. 173.302.  SECURITY FOR PAYMENT OF BONDS.  (a) To secure
  payment of district bonds or notes, the district may:
               (1)  encumber and pledge all or part of the revenue of
  its commuter rail facilities; and
               (2)  encumber all or part of the property of the
  commuter rail facilities and everything pertaining to them acquired
  or to be acquired.
         (b)  Unless prohibited by the resolution or indenture
  relating to outstanding bonds or notes, a district may encumber
  separately any item of property. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-1, Sec. 5(c)
  (part).)
         Sec. 173.303.  BONDS AS AUTHORIZED INVESTMENTS AND SECURITY
  FOR DEPOSITS OF PUBLIC FUNDS. (a) District bonds and notes are
  legal and authorized investments for:
               (1)  a bank;
               (2)  a trust company;
               (3)  a savings and loan association; and
               (4)  an insurance company.
         (b)  The bonds and notes are:
               (1)  eligible to secure the deposit of public funds of
  this state or a municipality, a county, a school district, or any
  other political corporation or subdivision of this state; and
               (2)  lawful and sufficient security for the deposit to
  the extent of the principal amount or market value of the bonds or
  notes, whichever is less. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-1, Sec. 5(d).)
         Sec. 173.304.  LIMIT ON POWER. (a) A revenue bond indenture
  may limit the exercise of a power granted by Section 173.004,
  173.005, 173.111, 173.151, 173.152, 173.153, 173.154, 173.155,
  173.157, 173.159, 173.160, 173.201, 173.202, 173.203, 173.204,
  173.205, 173.206, 173.207, 173.208, 173.209, 173.251, 173.252,
  173.253, 173.254, or 173.255.
         (b)  The limitation applies while any of the revenue bonds
  issued under the indenture are outstanding and unpaid. (V.A.C.S.
  Art. 6550c-1, Sec. 4(k) (part).)
  [Sections 173.305-173.350 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER H. SALES AND USE TAXES
         Sec. 173.351.  TAX AUTHORIZED. A sales and use tax is
  imposed on items sold on district property. (V.A.C.S. Art.
  6550c-1, Sec. 9(a) (part).)
         Sec. 173.352.  TAX RATE. The sales and use tax shall be
  imposed at the rate of the highest combination of local sales and
  use taxes imposed at the time of the district's creation in any
  local governmental jurisdiction that is part of the district.
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-1, Sec. 9(a) (part).)
         Sec. 173.353.  PREEMPTION OF OTHER SALES AND USE TAXES. The
  tax imposed under this subchapter preempts all other local sales
  and use taxes that would otherwise be imposed on district property.
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-1, Sec. 9(a) (part).)
         Sec. 173.354.  APPLICABILITY OF TAX CODE. Chapter 321, Tax
  Code, governs the computation, administration, governance, and use
  of the tax except as inconsistent with this chapter. (V.A.C.S. Art.
  6550c-1, Sec. 9(b) (part).)
         Sec. 173.355.  NOTICE TO COMPTROLLER. (a)  The district
  shall notify the comptroller in writing by United States registered
  or certified mail of the district's creation and of its intent to
  impose the sales and use tax under this chapter.
         (b) The district shall provide to the comptroller all
  information required to implement the tax, including:
               (1)  an adequate map showing the property boundaries of
  the district;
               (2)  a certified copy of the resolution of the board
  adopting the tax; and
               (3)  certified copies of the resolutions of the
  governing bodies of the creating municipalities and of the
  commissioners courts of the counties in which the municipalities
  are located.
         (c)  Not later than the 30th day after the date the
  comptroller receives the notice, map, and other information, the
  comptroller shall inform the district whether the comptroller is
  prepared to administer the tax. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-1, Secs.
  9(c), (d).)
         Sec. 173.356.  NOTICE TO LOCAL GOVERNMENTS. At the same time
  the district notifies the comptroller under Section 173.355, the
  district shall:
               (1)  notify each affected local governmental
  jurisdiction of the district's creation; and
               (2)  provide each jurisdiction with an adequate map
  showing the property boundaries of the district.  (V.A.C.S. Art.
  6550c-1, Sec. 9(e).)
         Sec. 173.357.  ACQUISITION OF ADDITIONAL TERRITORY SUBJECT
  TO TAX. (a)  Not later than the 30th day after the date a district
  acquires additional territory, the district shall notify the
  comptroller and each affected local governmental jurisdiction of
  the acquisition.
         (b)  The district must include with each notification:
               (1)  an adequate map showing the new property
  boundaries of the district; and
               (2)  the date the additional territory was acquired.
         (c)  Not later than the 30th day after the date the
  comptroller receives the notice under this section, the comptroller
  shall inform the district whether the comptroller is prepared to
  administer the tax in the additional territory. (V.A.C.S. Art.
  6550c-1, Sec. 9(f).)
         Sec. 173.358.  DUTY OF COMPTROLLER. The comptroller shall:
               (1)  administer, collect, and enforce a tax imposed
  under this chapter; and
               (2)  remit to a district the tax collected on the
  district's property. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-1, Secs. 9(a) (part),
  (b) (part).)
         Sec. 173.359.  EFFECTIVE DATE OF TAX. A tax imposed under
  this chapter or the repeal of a tax imposed under this chapter takes
  effect on the first day of the first calendar quarter that begins
  after the expiration of the first complete calendar quarter that
  occurs after the date the comptroller receives a notice of the
  action as required by this subchapter. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-1,
  Sec. 9(g).)
  CHAPTER 174. COMMUTER RAIL DISTRICTS
  SUBCHAPTER A. GENERAL PROVISIONS
  Sec. 174.001.  DEFINITION OF PERSON 
  Sec. 174.002.  DEFINITIONS 
  Sec. 174.003.  NATURE OF DISTRICT 
  Sec. 174.004.  REQUIREMENT FOR SERVICE TO
                  MUNICIPALITIES IN DISTRICT 
  [Sections 174.005-174.050 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER B. CREATION
  Sec. 174.051.  CREATION OF DISTRICT 
  [Sections 174.052-174.100 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER C. BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND EMPLOYEES
  Sec. 174.101.  CONTROL OF DISTRICT 
  Sec. 174.102.  COMPOSITION OF BOARD; TERMS 
  Sec. 174.103.  PRESIDING OFFICER 
  Sec. 174.104.  MEETINGS 
  Sec. 174.105.  RULES FOR PROCEEDINGS 
  Sec. 174.106.  COMPENSATION; REIMBURSEMENT 
  Sec. 174.107.  EMPLOYEES 
  Sec. 174.108.  EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 
  Sec. 174.109.  RETIREMENT BENEFITS 
  [Sections 174.110-174.150 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER D. GENERAL POWERS AND DUTIES
  Sec. 174.151.  GENERAL POWERS OF DISTRICT; GOVERNMENTAL
                  FUNCTIONS 
  Sec. 174.152.  RULES 
  Sec. 174.153.  AGREEMENTS GENERALLY 
  Sec. 174.154.  AGREEMENTS WITH OTHER ENTITIES FOR JOINT
                  USE 
  Sec. 174.155.  JOINT OWNERSHIP AGREEMENTS 
  Sec. 174.156.  INTERLOCAL AGREEMENTS WITH COMMISSION 
  Sec. 174.157.  AWARDING CONSTRUCTION OR PURCHASE
                  CONTRACTS 
  Sec. 174.158.  EMINENT DOMAIN 
  Sec. 174.159.  SUITS 
  [Sections 174.160-174.200 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER E. POWERS AND DUTIES RELATING TO ACQUISITION, CONSTRUCTION, AND OPERATION OF COMMUTER RAIL FACILITIES
  CONSTRUCTION, AND OPERATION OF COMMUTER RAIL FACILITIES
  Sec. 174.201.  GENERAL AUTHORITY OVER COMMUTER RAIL
                  FACILITIES 
  Sec. 174.202.  POWERS RELATING TO DISTRICT PROPERTY 
  Sec. 174.203.  USE AND ALTERATION OF PROPERTY OF
                  ANOTHER POLITICAL SUBDIVISION 
  Sec. 174.204.  RULES GOVERNING SYSTEM AND ROUTINGS 
  Sec. 174.205.  ACQUISITION OF PROPERTY 
  Sec. 174.206.  ACQUISITION OF ROLLING STOCK AND OTHER
                  PROPERTY 
  Sec. 174.207.  COMPENSATION FOR USE OF SYSTEM
                  FACILITIES 
  Sec. 174.208.  OPERATION OR USE CONTRACTS 
  Sec. 174.209.  RAIL TRANSPORTATION SERVICES AGREEMENTS
                  WITH OTHER POLITICAL SUBDIVISIONS 
  [Sections 174.210-174.250 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER F. FINANCIAL PROVISIONS
  Sec. 174.251.  FISCAL YEAR 
  Sec. 174.252.  ANNUAL BUDGET 
  Sec. 174.253.  GRANTS AND LOANS 
  Sec. 174.254.  DEPOSITORY 
  Sec. 174.255.  PURCHASE OF ADDITIONAL INSURED
                  PROVISIONS 
  Sec. 174.256.  TAX EXEMPTION 
  [Sections 174.257-174.300 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER G. BONDS
  Sec. 174.301.  REVENUE BONDS 
  Sec. 174.302.  SECURITY FOR PAYMENT OF BONDS 
  Sec. 174.303.  BONDS AS AUTHORIZED INVESTMENTS AND
                  SECURITY FOR DEPOSITS OF PUBLIC FUNDS 
  Sec. 174.304.  LIMIT ON POWER 
  [Sections 174.305-174.350 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER H. TAXES
  Sec. 174.351.  TAX AUTHORIZED 
  Sec. 174.352.  IMPOSITION OF TAX 
  Sec. 174.353.  TAX RATE 
  Sec. 174.354.  EFFECTIVE DATE OF TAX 
  CHAPTER 174. COMMUTER RAIL DISTRICTS
  SUBCHAPTER A. GENERAL PROVISIONS
         Sec. 174.001.  DEFINITION OF PERSON.  In this chapter:
               (1)  "person" includes a corporation, as provided by
  Section 312.011, Government Code; and
               (2)  the definition of "person" assigned by Section
  311.005, Government Code, does not apply. (New.)
         Sec. 174.002.  DEFINITIONS. In this chapter:
               (1)  "Board" means a district's board of directors.
               (2)  "Commuter rail facility" means any property
  necessary for the transportation of passengers and baggage between
  locations in a district.  The term includes rolling stock,
  locomotives, stations, parking areas, and rail lines.
               (3)  "Director" means a board member.
               (4)  "District" means a commuter rail district created
  under this chapter or under Article 6550c-3, Revised Statutes, as
  that article existed before April 1, 2011.
               (5)  "System" means all of the commuter rail and
  intermodal facilities leased or owned by or operated on behalf of a
  district. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-3, Secs. 1(2), (5), (7); New.)
         Sec. 174.003.  NATURE OF DISTRICT. (a) A district is a public
  body and a political subdivision of this state exercising public
  and essential governmental functions.
         (b)  A district, in the exercise of powers under this
  chapter, is performing only governmental functions and is a
  governmental unit under Chapter 101, Civil Practice and Remedies
  Code.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-3, Sec. 4(a) (part).)
         Sec. 174.004.  REQUIREMENT FOR SERVICE TO MUNICIPALITIES IN
  DISTRICT. A municipality located in a district that wishes to be
  served by commuter rail facilities of the district must pay for
  construction of a commuter rail station. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-3,
  Sec. 9.)
  [Sections 174.005-174.050 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER B. CREATION
         Sec. 174.051.  CREATION OF DISTRICT. (a)  A district may be
  created to provide commuter rail service to counties along the
  Texas-Mexico border.
         (b)  The commissioners court of a county may create a
  commuter rail district on adoption of an order favoring the
  creation. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-3, Sec. 2.)
  [Sections 174.052-174.100 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER C. BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND EMPLOYEES
         Sec. 174.101.  CONTROL OF DISTRICT. A district is governed
  by a board of directors. The board is responsible for the
  management, operation, and control of the district. (V.A.C.S. Art.
  6550c-3, Sec. 3(a).)
         Sec. 174.102.  COMPOSITION OF BOARD; TERMS. (a) The board is
  composed of five directors appointed as follows:
               (1)  one director appointed by the county judge; and
               (2)  one director appointed by each county
  commissioner.
         (b)  Each director serves a four-year term.  The board may
  provide for the staggering of the terms of its directors. (V.A.C.S.
  Art. 6550c-3, Sec. 3(b).)
         Sec. 174.103.  PRESIDING OFFICER. (a) The directors shall
  elect one director as presiding officer.
         (b)  The presiding officer may select another director to
  preside in the absence of the presiding officer. (V.A.C.S. Art.
  6550c-3, Sec. 3(c).)
         Sec. 174.104.  MEETINGS. The presiding officer shall call
  at least one meeting of the board each year and may call other
  meetings as the presiding officer determines are appropriate.
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-3, Sec. 3(d).)
         Sec. 174.105.  RULES FOR PROCEEDINGS. The board shall adopt
  rules for its proceedings. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-3, Sec. 3(f)
  (part).)
         Sec. 174.106.  COMPENSATION; REIMBURSEMENT. A director is
  not entitled to compensation for serving as a director but is
  entitled to reimbursement for reasonable expenses incurred while
  serving as a director. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-3, Sec. 3(e).)
         Sec. 174.107.  EMPLOYEES. The board may employ and
  compensate persons to carry out the powers and duties of the
  district. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-3, Sec. 3(f) (part).)
         Sec. 174.108.  EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE. The board shall appoint
  an executive committee. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-3, Sec. 3(f) (part).)
         Sec. 174.109.  RETIREMENT BENEFITS. A district is eligible
  to participate in the Texas County and District Retirement System.
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-3, Sec. 4(p).)
  [Sections 174.110-174.150 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER D. GENERAL POWERS AND DUTIES
         Sec. 174.151.  GENERAL POWERS OF DISTRICT; GOVERNMENTAL
  FUNCTIONS. (a) A district has all the powers necessary or
  convenient to carry out the purposes of this chapter.
         (b)  A district may perform any act necessary for the full
  exercise of the district's powers. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-3, Secs.
  4(a) (part), (j) (part).)
         Sec. 174.152.  RULES. To protect the health, safety, and
  general welfare of district residents and people who use district
  services, a district may adopt rules to govern the operation of the
  district, its employees, the system, service provided by the
  district, and any other necessary matter concerning its purposes,
  including rules regarding health, safety, alcohol or beverage
  service, food service, or telephone or utility service. (V.A.C.S.
  Art. 6550c-3, Sec. 4(g).)
         Sec. 174.153.  AGREEMENTS GENERALLY. A district may make
  contracts, leases, and agreements with the United States, this
  state and its agencies and political subdivisions, and other
  persons and entities. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-3, Sec. 4(j) (part).)
         Sec. 174.154.  AGREEMENTS WITH OTHER ENTITIES FOR JOINT USE.
  A district may:
               (1)  make agreements with a public utility, private
  utility, communication system, common carrier, state agency, or
  transportation system for the joint use of facilities,
  installations, or property inside or outside the district; and
               (2)  establish:
                     (A)  through routes; and
                     (B)  joint fares. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-3, Sec.
  4(f).)
         Sec. 174.155.  JOINT OWNERSHIP AGREEMENTS. A district may
  enter into a joint ownership agreement with any person. (V.A.C.S.
  Art. 6550c-3, Sec. 4(h).)
         Sec. 174.156.  INTERLOCAL AGREEMENTS WITH COMMISSION. The
  commission may enter into an interlocal agreement with the district
  under which the district may exercise a power or duty of the
  commission for the development and efficient operation of an
  intermodal corridor in the district. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-3, Sec.
  4(j) (part).)
         Sec. 174.157.  AWARDING CONSTRUCTION OR PURCHASE CONTRACTS.
  (a) A contract in the amount of more than $15,000 for the
  construction of improvements or the purchase of material,
  machinery, equipment, supplies, or any other property except real
  property may be awarded only through competitive bidding after
  notice is published in a newspaper of general circulation in the
  district at least 15 days before the date set for receiving bids.
         (b)  The board may adopt rules governing the taking of bids
  and the awarding of contracts.
         (c)  This section does not apply to:
               (1)  personal or professional services;
               (2)  the acquisition of an existing rail transportation
  system; or
               (3)  a contract with a common carrier to construct
  lines or to operate commuter rail service on lines wholly or partly
  owned by the carrier. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-3, Sec. 6.)
         Sec. 174.158.  EMINENT DOMAIN. (a) A district may exercise
  the power of eminent domain to acquire:
               (1)  real property in fee simple; or
               (2)  an interest in real property less than fee simple
  in, on, under, or above land, including an easement, right-of-way,
  or right of use of airspace or subsurface space.  
         (b)  The power of eminent domain under this section does not
  apply to:
               (1)  land under the jurisdiction of the department; or
               (2)  a rail line owned by a common carrier or
  municipality.  
         (c)  To the extent possible, the district shall use existing
  rail or intermodal transportation corridors for the alignment of
  its system.  
         (d)  An eminent domain proceeding is begun by the board's
  adoption of a resolution declaring that the district's acquisition
  of the property or interest described in the resolution:
               (1)  is a public necessity; and
               (2)  is necessary and proper for the construction,
  extension, improvement, or development of commuter rail facilities
  and is in the public interest.  
         (e)  The resolution is conclusive evidence of the public
  necessity of the proposed acquisition and that the real property or
  interest in property is necessary for public use.  (V.A.C.S. Art.
  6550c-3, Sec. 4(e).)
         Sec. 174.159.  SUITS. (a) A district may:
               (1)  sue and be sued;
               (2)  institute and prosecute suits without giving
  security for costs; and
               (3)  appeal from a judgment without giving a
  supersedeas or cost bond.
         (b)  An action at law or in equity against the district must
  be brought in the county in which a principal office of the district
  is located, except that a suit in eminent domain involving an
  interest in land must be brought in the county in which the land is
  located. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-3, Sec. 4(b).)
  [Sections 174.160-174.200 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER E. POWERS AND DUTIES RELATING TO ACQUISITION,
  CONSTRUCTION, AND OPERATION OF COMMUTER RAIL FACILITIES
         Sec. 174.201.  GENERAL AUTHORITY OVER COMMUTER RAIL
  FACILITIES. A district may acquire, construct, develop, own,
  operate, and maintain intermodal and commuter rail facilities to
  connect political subdivisions in the district. (V.A.C.S. Art.
  6550c-3, Sec. 4(d) (part).)
         Sec. 174.202.  POWERS RELATING TO DISTRICT PROPERTY. A
  district may acquire by grant, purchase, gift, devise, lease, or
  otherwise and may hold, use, sell, lease, or dispose of property,
  including a license, a patent, a right, or an interest, necessary,
  convenient, or useful for the full exercise of its powers.
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-3, Sec. 4(c).)
         Sec. 174.203.  USE AND ALTERATION OF PROPERTY OF ANOTHER
  POLITICAL SUBDIVISION. (a) For a purpose described by Section
  174.201, as necessary or useful in the construction,
  reconstruction, repair, maintenance, and operation of the system,
  and with the consent of a municipality, county, or other political
  subdivision, a district may:
               (1)  use streets, alleys, roads, highways, and other
  public ways of the political subdivision; and
               (2)  relocate, raise, reroute, change the grade of, or
  alter, at the district's expense, the construction of a publicly
  owned or privately owned street, alley, highway, road, railroad,
  electric line or facility, telegraph or telephone property or
  facility, pipeline or facility, conduit or facility, and other
  property.
         (b)  A district may not use or alter:
               (1)  a road or highway in the state highway system
  without the permission of the commission; or
               (2)  a railroad without permission of the railroad.
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-3, Sec. 4(d) (part).)
         Sec. 174.204.  RULES GOVERNING SYSTEM AND ROUTINGS. A
  district by resolution may adopt rules governing the use,
  operation, and maintenance of the system and may determine or
  change a routing as the board considers advisable. (V.A.C.S. Art.
  6550c-3, Sec. 4(k).)
         Sec. 174.205.  ACQUISITION OF PROPERTY.  (a) A district may
  purchase any interest in real property to acquire, construct, or
  operate a commuter rail facility on terms and at a price to which
  the district and the owner agree.
         (b)  The governing body of a municipality, a county, any
  other political subdivision, or a public agency may convey the
  title or the rights and easements to property needed by the district
  for its purposes in connection with the acquisition, construction,
  or operation of the system. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-3, Sec. 4(d)
  (part).)
         Sec. 174.206.  ACQUISITION OF ROLLING STOCK AND OTHER
  PROPERTY. A district may acquire rolling stock or other property
  under a conditional sales contract, lease, equipment trust
  certificate, or other form of contract or trust agreement.
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-3, Sec. 4(j) (part).)
         Sec. 174.207.  COMPENSATION FOR USE OF SYSTEM FACILITIES.  
  (a) A district shall establish and maintain reasonable and
  nondiscriminatory rates or other compensation for the use of the
  facilities of the system acquired, constructed, operated,
  regulated, or maintained by the district.
         (b)  Together with grants received by the district, the rates
  or other compensation must be sufficient to produce revenue
  adequate to:
               (1)  pay all expenses necessary for the operation and
  maintenance of the district's property and facilities;
               (2)  pay the principal of and interest on bonds issued
  by the district payable wholly or partly from the revenue, as they
  become due and payable; and
               (3)  fulfill the terms of agreements made with the
  holders of bonds or with any person on their behalf. (V.A.C.S. Art.
  6550c-3, Sec. 4(i).)
         Sec. 174.208.  OPERATION OR USE CONTRACTS.  (a)  A district
  may:
               (1)  lease all or part of the commuter rail facilities
  to an operator; or
               (2)  contract for the use or operation of all or part of
  the commuter rail facilities by an operator.
         (b)  To the maximum extent practicable, the district shall
  encourage the participation of private enterprise in the operation
  of commuter rail facilities.
         (c)  The term of an operating contract under this section may
  not exceed 20 years. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-3, Sec. 4(l).)
         Sec. 174.209.  RAIL TRANSPORTATION SERVICES AGREEMENTS WITH
  OTHER POLITICAL SUBDIVISIONS.  A district may contract with a
  county or other political subdivision of this state for the
  district to provide commuter rail transportation services to an
  area outside the district on terms to which the parties agree.
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-3, Sec. 4(m).)
  [Sections 174.210-174.250 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER F. FINANCIAL PROVISIONS
         Sec. 174.251.  FISCAL YEAR.  Unless the board changes the
  fiscal year, the district's fiscal year ends on September 30.
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-3, Sec. 4(o) (part).)
         Sec. 174.252.  ANNUAL BUDGET.  (a) Before beginning the
  operation of commuter rail facilities, the board shall adopt an
  annual operating budget specifying the district's anticipated
  revenue and expenses for the remainder of the fiscal year. The
  district shall adopt an operating budget for each succeeding fiscal
  year.
         (b)  The board must hold a public hearing before adopting
  each budget except the initial budget. Notice of the hearing must
  be published at least seven days before the date of the hearing in a
  newspaper of general circulation in the district.
         (c)  A budget may be amended at any time if notice of the
  proposed amendment is given in the notice of the meeting at which
  the amendment will be considered.
         (d)  An expenditure that is not budgeted may not be made.
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-3, Sec. 4(o) (part).)
         Sec. 174.253.  GRANTS AND LOANS. A district may accept
  grants and loans from the United States, this state and its agencies
  and political subdivisions, and other persons and entities.
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-3, Sec. 4(j) (part).)
         Sec. 174.254.  DEPOSITORY.  (a) The board by resolution
  shall name one or more banks for the deposit of district funds.
         (b)  District funds are public funds and may be invested in
  securities permitted by Chapter 2256, Government Code.
         (c)  To the extent district funds are not insured by the
  Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or its successor, the funds
  shall be collateralized in the manner provided for county funds.
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-3, Sec. 4(q).)
         Sec. 174.255.  PURCHASE OF ADDITIONAL INSURED PROVISIONS. A
  district may purchase an additional insured provision to any
  liability insurance contract. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-3, Sec. 4(n).)
         Sec. 174.256.  TAX EXEMPTION.  District property, material
  purchases, revenue, and income and the interest on a bond or note
  issued by a district are exempt from any tax imposed by this state
  or a political subdivision of this state. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-3,
  Sec. 7.)
  [Sections 174.257-174.300 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER G. BONDS
         Sec. 174.301.  REVENUE BONDS.  A district may issue revenue
  bonds and notes in amounts that the board considers necessary or
  appropriate for the acquisition, purchase, construction,
  reconstruction, repair, equipping, improvement, or extension of
  its commuter rail facilities. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-3, Sec. 5(a)
  (part).)
         Sec. 174.302.  SECURITY FOR PAYMENT OF BONDS. (a) To secure
  payment of district bonds or notes, the district may:
               (1)  encumber and pledge all or part of the revenue of
  its commuter rail facilities; and
               (2)  encumber all or part of the property of the
  commuter rail facilities and everything pertaining to them that is
  acquired or to be acquired.
         (b)  Unless prohibited by the resolution or indenture
  relating to outstanding bonds or notes, a district may encumber
  separately any item of property. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-3, Sec. 5(c)
  (part).)
         Sec. 174.303.  BONDS AS AUTHORIZED INVESTMENTS AND SECURITY
  FOR DEPOSITS OF PUBLIC FUNDS.  (a)  District bonds and notes are
  legal and authorized investments for:
               (1)  a bank;
               (2)  a trust company;
               (3)  a savings and loan association; and
               (4)  an insurance company.
         (b)  The bonds and notes are:
               (1)  eligible to secure the deposit of public funds of
  this state or a municipality, a county, a school district, or any
  other political corporation or subdivision of this state; and
               (2)  lawful and sufficient security for the deposit to
  the extent of the principal amount or market value of the bonds or
  notes, whichever is less.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-3, Sec. 5(d).)
         Sec. 174.304.  LIMIT ON POWER.  (a)  A revenue bond indenture
  may limit the exercise of the power granted by Section 174.003,
  174.109, 174.151, 174.152, 174.153, 174.154, 174.155, 174.156,
  174.158, 174.159, 174.201, 174.202, 174.203, 174.204, 174.205,
  174.206, 174.207, 174.208, 174.209, 174.251, 174.252, 174.253,
  174.254, or 174.255.
         (b)  A limit applies while any of the revenue bonds issued
  under the indenture are outstanding and unpaid. (V.A.C.S. Art.
  6550c-3, Sec. 4(j) (part).)
  [Sections 174.305-174.350 reserved for expansion]
  SUBCHAPTER H. TAXES
         Sec. 174.351.  TAX AUTHORIZED. A district may impose any
  kind of tax except an ad valorem property tax. (V.A.C.S. Art.
  6550c-3, Sec. 8(a).)
         Sec. 174.352.  IMPOSITION OF TAX.  (a)  A district may not
  impose a tax or increase the rate of an existing tax unless a
  proposition proposing the imposition or rate increase is approved
  by a majority of the votes received at an election held for that
  purpose.
         (b)  Each new tax or rate increase must be expressed in a
  separate proposition consisting of a brief statement of the nature
  of the proposed tax.
         (c)  The notice of the election must contain a statement of
  the base or rate of the proposed tax. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-3, Secs.
  8(b), (c), (d).)
         Sec. 174.353.  TAX RATE.  (a)  The board, subject to Section
  174.352(a), may impose for a district a sales and use tax at the
  rate of:
               (1)  one-quarter of one percent;
               (2)  one-half of one percent;
               (3)  three-quarters of one percent; or
               (4)  one percent.
         (b)  A district may not adopt a sales and use tax rate,
  including a rate increase, that when combined with the rates of all
  sales and use taxes imposed by other political subdivisions of this
  state having territory in the district exceeds two percent in any
  location in the district. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550c-3, Secs. 8(e),
  (f).)
         Sec. 174.354.  EFFECTIVE DATE OF TAX.  A district's sales and
  use tax takes effect on the first day of the second calendar quarter
  beginning after the election approving the tax. (V.A.C.S. Art.
  6550c-3, Sec. 8(g).)
         SECTION 2.05.  Subchapter B, Chapter 452, Transportation
  Code, is amended by adding Section 452.0561 to read as follows:
         Sec. 452.0561.  LIABILITY OF TRANSPORTATION ENTITY
  PROVIDING PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION. (a) This section applies only to
  a transportation entity created under:
               (1)  Subtitle C or D of Title 5 or Chapter 172, 173, or
  174; or
               (2)  former Title 112, Revised Statutes.
         (b)  A transportation entity created for the purpose of
  providing public transportation is a governmental unit under
  Chapter 101, Civil Practice and Remedies Code, and the operations
  of the entity are essential governmental functions and not
  proprietary functions for any purpose, including the application of
  Chapter 101, Civil Practice and Remedies Code.
         (c)  An independent contractor of a transportation entity
  performing a function of the entity or an authority is liable for
  damages only to the extent that the entity or authority would be
  liable if the entity or authority itself were performing the
  function. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6550d.)
         SECTION 2.06.  Chapter 471, Transportation Code, is amended
  by adding Section 471.009 to read as follows:
         Sec. 471.009.  ENHANCED PAVEMENT MARKING VISIBILITY AT
  CERTAIN GRADE CROSSINGS. (a)  In this section:
               (1)  "Grade crossing" and "reflecting material" have
  the meanings assigned by Section 471.004.
               (2)  "Pavement markings" means markings applied or
  attached to the surface of a roadway to regulate, warn, or guide
  traffic.
               (3)  "Stop bar" means the marking that is applied or
  attached to the surface of a roadway on either side of a grade
  crossing and that indicates that a vehicle must stop at the grade
  crossing.
         (b)  A county or municipality shall use standards developed
  by the department in applying pavement markings or a stop bar at a
  grade crossing if the cost of the markings or stop bar is paid
  either entirely or partly from state or federal funds. In
  developing its standards, the department shall follow the standards
  in the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices issued by the
  United States Department of Transportation Federal Highway
  Administration and, where appropriate, require the use of
  reflecting materials. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6370c.)
         SECTION 2.07.  Title 66, Revised Statutes, is amended by
  adding Article 4015g to read as follows:
         Art. 4015g.  SUITS FOR PENALTY. (a) A suit brought under this
  title for recovery of penalties may be brought in any county in
  which:
               (1)  a violation of this title is committed;
               (2)  the company or receiver has an agent or
  representative; or
               (3)  the principal office of the company is located, or
  in which a receiver resides.
         (b)  Of money collected from a penalty in this title:
               (1)  half, less the commission and expenses allowed by
  law, shall be deposited in the state treasury; and
               (2)  the remainder shall be paid into the jury fund of
  the county in which the suit may be maintained. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6477
  (part).)
  ARTICLE 3. TRANSFER OF PROVISIONS FROM TITLE 112, REVISED
  STATUTES, TO NATURAL RESOURCES CODE
         SECTION 3.01.  Subchapter A, Chapter 81, Natural Resources
  Code, is amended by adding Section 81.002 to read as follows:
         Sec. 81.002.  DEFINITION OF PERSON FOR CERTAIN PROVISIONS.  
  In this chapter:
               (1)  "person" includes a corporation, as provided by
  Section 312.011, Government Code; and
               (2)  the definition of "person" assigned by Section
  311.005, Government Code, does not apply.  (New.)
         SECTION 3.02.  Subchapter B, Chapter 81, Natural Resources
  Code, is amended by adding Sections 81.01001 through 81.01016 and
  81.0165 to read as follows:
  SUBCHAPTER B. ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS
  Sec. 81.01001.  SUNSET PROVISION 
  Sec. 81.01002.  CHAIRMAN 
  Sec. 81.01003.  QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE 
  Sec. 81.01004.  PERSONAL FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE,
        
                   INTEREST 
  Sec. 81.01005.  NAME AND SEAL 
  Sec. 81.01006.  PROCEDURAL RULES 
  Sec. 81.01007.  SUPPLIES 
  Sec. 81.01008.  SESSIONS 
  Sec. 81.01009.  RECORDS RESEARCH FEE 
  Sec. 81.01010.  FEE FOR COPIES 
  Sec. 81.01011.  METHOD OF MAKING PAYMENTS TO COMMISSION 
  Sec. 81.01012.  GIFTS, GRANTS, AND DONATIONS 
  Sec. 81.01013.  CONFLICT OF INTEREST 
  Sec. 81.01014.  EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY 
  Sec. 81.01015.  EMPLOYEE INCENTIVE PROGRAM 
  Sec. 81.01016.  SEPARATION OF RESPONSIBILITIES 
  Sec. 81.0165.  SALARY OF SECRETARY 
         Sec. 81.01001.  SUNSET PROVISION. The Railroad Commission
  of Texas is subject to Chapter 325, Government Code (Texas Sunset
  Act).  Unless continued in existence as provided by that chapter,
  the commission is abolished September 1, 2013.  (V.A.C.S. Art.
  6445a.)
         Sec. 81.01002.  CHAIRMAN. The commissioners shall elect one
  commissioner as the chairman. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6447 (part).)
         Sec. 81.01003.  QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE.  A commissioner
  must be:
               (1)  a qualified voter under the constitution and laws;
  and
               (2)  at least 25 years of age.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6447
  (part).)
         Sec. 81.01004.  PERSONAL FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE, STANDARDS OF
  CONDUCT, AND CONFLICT OF INTEREST. A commissioner is subject to the
  provisions of Chapter 572, Government Code, that apply to elected
  officers, including the requirements governing personal financial
  statements, standards of conduct, and conflicts of interest.
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6447 (part).)
         Sec. 81.01005.  NAME AND SEAL. (a)  The commissioners are
  known collectively as the "Railroad Commission of Texas."
         (b)  The seal of the commission contains a star of five
  points with the words "Railroad Commission of Texas" engraved on
  it. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6447 (part).)
         Sec. 81.01006.  PROCEDURAL RULES.  The commissioners may
  adopt all rules necessary for the commission's government and
  proceedings. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6447 (part).)
         Sec. 81.01007.  SUPPLIES.  The commissioners shall be
  furnished necessary furniture, stationery, supplies, and expenses,
  to be paid for on the order of the governor. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6447
  (part).)
         Sec. 81.01008.  SESSIONS. The commission may hold sessions
  at any place in this state when considered necessary.  (V.A.C.S.
  Art. 6447 (part).)
         Sec. 81.01009.  RECORDS RESEARCH FEE. The commission shall
  charge a person who requests an examination or search of commission
  records $5 for each half hour or fraction of a half hour that a
  commission employee spends in the examination or search unless the
  person requesting the search represents this state or a county.  
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6447j.)
         Sec. 81.01010.  FEE FOR COPIES. (a)  The commission may
  charge a fee for copies of papers provided by the commission to a
  person other than a department of this state.
         (b)  The fee for a copy of a paper, document, or record in the
  commission's office, including the certificate and seal to be
  applied by the secretary, is 15 cents for each 100 words.
         (c)  This section does not authorize the commission to charge
  a person a fee for a tariff sheet for the person's own use if the
  tariff sheet is in effect.
         (d)  The fees charged and collected under this section shall
  be accounted for by the secretary of the commission and paid into
  the treasury as provided by Chapter 603, Government Code.  
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 3922.)
         Sec. 81.01011.  METHOD OF MAKING PAYMENTS TO COMMISSION.  
  (a)  The commission may authorize payment, as prescribed by the
  commission, of a regulatory fee, fine, penalty, or charge for goods
  and services by means of an electronic payment method or a credit
  card issued by a financial institution chartered by a state or the
  United States or issued by a nationally recognized credit
  organization approved by the commission. A payment by the
  authorized method may be made in person, by telephone, or through
  the Internet.
         (b)  The commission may require a person who makes a payment
  to the commission by means of an electronic payment method or credit
  card to pay a discount or service charge in an amount reasonable and
  necessary to reimburse the commission for the costs involved in
  processing the payment.
         (c)  The commission may adopt rules as necessary to implement
  this section.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6447n.)
         Sec. 81.01012.  GIFTS, GRANTS, AND DONATIONS. (a) In this
  section, "contested case" has the meaning assigned by Section
  2001.003, Government Code.
         (b)  The commission may apply for, request, solicit,
  contract for, receive, accept, and administer gifts, grants, and
  donations of money or other assistance from any source to carry out
  any commission purpose or power.
         (c)  The commission may not, under Subsection (b), accept a
  gift or donation of money or of property from a party in a contested
  case during the period from the inception of the contested case
  until the 30th day after the date a final order is signed in the
  contested case.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6447i.)
         Sec. 81.01013.  CONFLICT OF INTEREST. (a)  In this section,
  "Texas trade association" means a cooperative and voluntarily
  joined association of business or professional competitors in this
  state designed to assist its members and its industry or profession
  in dealing with mutual business or professional problems and in
  promoting their common interest.
         (b)  A person may not be an employee of the commission
  employed in a "bona fide executive, administrative, or professional
  capacity," as that phrase is used for purposes of establishing an
  exemption to the overtime provisions of the federal Fair Labor
  Standards Act of 1938 (29 U.S.C. Section 201 et seq.) if:
               (1)  the person is an officer, employee, or paid
  consultant of a Texas trade association in a business or industry
  regulated by the commission; or
               (2)  the person's spouse is an officer, manager, or paid
  consultant of a Texas trade association in a business or industry
  regulated by the commission.
         (c)  A person who is required to register as a lobbyist under
  Chapter 305, Government Code, may not act as the general counsel to
  the commission.
         (d)  The commission shall provide to commissioners and to
  agency employees, as often as necessary, information regarding the
  requirements for office or employment under this chapter, including
  information regarding a person's responsibilities under applicable
  laws relating to standards of conduct for state officers or
  employees. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6447c.)
         Sec. 81.01014.  EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY.  (a)  The
  commission shall prepare and maintain a written policy statement
  that implements a program of equal employment opportunity to ensure
  that all personnel decisions are made without regard to race,
  color, disability, sex, religion, age, or national origin.
         (b)  The policy statement must include:
               (1)  personnel policies, including policies relating
  to recruitment, evaluation, selection, training, and promotion of
  personnel, that show the intent of the commission to avoid the
  unlawful employment practices described by Chapter 21, Labor Code;
  and
               (2)  an analysis of the extent to which the composition
  of the commission's personnel is in accordance with state and
  federal law and a description of reasonable methods to achieve
  compliance with state and federal law.
         (c)  The policy statement must:
               (1)  be updated annually;
               (2)  be reviewed by the Texas Workforce Commission
  civil rights division for compliance with Subsection (b); and
               (3)  be filed with the governor's office. (V.A.C.S.
  Art. 6447b.)
         Sec. 81.01015.  EMPLOYEE INCENTIVE PROGRAM.  The commission
  shall provide to commission employees information and training on
  the benefits and methods of participation in the state employee
  incentive program. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6447m.)
         Sec. 81.01016.  SEPARATION OF RESPONSIBILITIES.  The
  commission shall develop and implement policies that clearly
  separate the policy-making responsibilities of the commissioners
  and the management responsibilities of the staff of the commission.
  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6447k.)
         Sec. 81.0165.  SALARY OF SECRETARY. The salary of the
  secretary of the commission shall be the amount appropriated for
  that purpose by the legislature. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6447a.)
         SECTION 3.03.  Subchapter C, Chapter 81, Natural Resources
  Code, is amended by adding Sections 81.0591, 81.0592, 81.062,
  81.063, and 81.064 to read as follows:
  SUBCHAPTER C. JURISDICTION, POWERS, AND DUTIES
  Sec. 81.0591.  COMPLAINTS 
  Sec. 81.0592.  CONSUMER INTEREST INFORMATION 
  Sec. 81.062.  PUBLIC PARTICIPATION 
  Sec. 81.063.  ISSUANCE, SUSPENSION, OR REVOCATION OF
                 LICENSE, PERMIT, OR CERTIFICATE 
  Sec. 81.064.  POWERS OF COMMISSIONER OR DESIGNATED
                 EMPLOYEE IN CASES BEFORE COMMISSION 
         Sec. 81.0591.  COMPLAINTS.  (a)  The commission shall
  maintain a file on each written complaint filed with the
  commission. The file must include:
               (1)  the name of the person who filed the complaint;
               (2)  the date the complaint is received by the
  commission;
               (3)  the subject matter of the complaint;
               (4)  the name of each person contacted in relation to
  the complaint;
               (5)  a summary of the results of the review or
  investigation of the complaint; and
               (6)  an explanation of the reason the file was closed,
  if the commission closed the file without taking action other than
  to investigate the complaint.
         (b)  The commission shall provide to the person filing the
  complaint and to each person who is a subject of the complaint a
  copy of the commission's policies and procedures relating to
  complaint investigation and resolution.
         (c)  The commission, at least quarterly until final
  disposition of the complaint, shall notify the person filing the
  complaint and each person who is a subject of the complaint of the
  status of the investigation unless the notice would jeopardize an
  undercover investigation. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6447h.)
         Sec. 81.0592.  CONSUMER INTEREST INFORMATION.  (a)  The
  commission shall prepare information of consumer interest
  describing the regulatory functions of the commission and the
  procedures by which consumer complaints are filed with and resolved
  by the commission.
         (b)  The commission shall make the information available to
  the public and appropriate state agencies.  (V.A.C.S. Art. 6447g.)
         Sec. 81.062.  PUBLIC PARTICIPATION.  The commission shall
  develop and implement policies that provide the public with a
  reasonable opportunity to appear before the commission and to speak
  on any issue under the jurisdiction of the commission. (V.A.C.S.
  Art. 6447l.)
         Sec. 81.063.  ISSUANCE, SUSPENSION, OR REVOCATION OF
  LICENSE, PERMIT, OR CERTIFICATE. (a) If the commission proposes to
  suspend or revoke a person's license, permit, or certificate of
  public convenience and necessity, the person is entitled to a
  hearing before the commission.
         (b)  The commission may not:
               (1)  refuse to issue a license, permit, or certificate
  to a person because of the person's race, religion, color, sex, or
  national origin; or
               (2)  revoke or suspend the license, permit, or
  certificate of a person because of the person's race, religion,
  color, sex, or national origin. (V.A.C.S. Arts. 6447f(a), (c).)
         Sec. 81.064.  POWERS OF COMMISSIONER OR DESIGNATED EMPLOYEE
  IN CASES BEFORE COMMISSION.  (a)  In a case before the commission, a
  commissioner, or an authorized commission employee, designated by
  the commission for that purpose, in the same manner as if the entire
  commission were present, may:
               (1)  hold a hearing;
               (2)  conduct an investigation;
               (3)  make a record of a hearing or investigation for the
  use and benefit of the commission;
               (4)  administer an oath;
               (5)  certify to an official act; and
               (6)  compel the attendance of a witness and the
  production of papers, books, accounts, and other pertinent
  documents and testimony.
         (b)  The record of a hearing or investigation made under this
  section that is certified to by the commissioner or employee has the
  same effect as if made before the commission. The commission shall
  determine a case in which the record is made under this section in
  the same manner as if the record had been made before the
  commission.
         (c)  The commission may punish for contempt a person who:
               (1)  refuses to comply with this section; or
               (2)  obstructs or attempts to obstruct a proceeding
  under this section. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6519a (part).)
         SECTION 3.04.  Subchapter D, Chapter 81, Natural Resources
  Code, is amended by adding Section 81.093 to read as follows:
         Sec. 81.093.  DEPOSITIONS.  (a)  In a matter pending for
  hearing before the commission or a division of the commission, the
  commission or an interested party may produce the testimony of a
  witness by written or oral deposition instead of compelling the
  personal attendance of the witness. For that purpose, the
  commission may issue a commission or other process necessary to
  take a deposition.
         (b)  The deposition shall be taken, to the extent applicable
  and to the greatest extent possible, in accordance with the
  provisions of the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure relating to
  written and oral depositions. (V.A.C.S. Art. 6472a.)
  ARTICLE 4.  CONFORMING AMENDMENTS
         SECTION 4.01.  Section 101.0817, Government Code, is amended
  to read as follows:
         Sec. 101.0817.  STATUTORY COUNTY COURT FEES AND COSTS UNDER
  OTHER LAWS.  The clerk of a statutory county court shall collect
  a  fee of $10 under Section 112.059, Transportation Code [Article
  6327, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes], for a county attorney in a
  suit regarding a railroad company's failure to keep roadbed and
  right-of-way in proper condition.
         SECTION 4.02.  Section 91.004(c), Transportation Code, is
  amended to read as follows:
         (c)  Subsection (b) does not apply to money appropriated or
  allocated:
               (1)  to a transit authority described by Chapter 451, a
  transportation authority described by Chapter 452 or 460, or a
  transit department described by Chapter 453; or
               (2)  for use by:
                     (A)  a port authority or navigation district
  created or operating under Section 52, Article III, or Section 59,
  Article XVI, Texas Constitution; or
                     (B)  a district created under Chapter 172 of this
  code or Chapter 623, Acts of the 67th Legislature, Regular Session,
  1981 (former Article 6550c, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes).
         SECTION 4.03.  Sections 171.001(2), (4), and (5),
  Transportation Code, are amended to read as follows:
               (2)  "Bonds" has the meaning assigned by Section
  172.001 [Chapter 623, Acts of the 67th Legislature, Regular
  Session, 1981 (Article 6550c, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes)].
               (4)  "Rail facilities" has the meaning assigned by
  Section 172.001 [Chapter 623, Acts of the 67th Legislature, Regular
  Session, 1981 (Article 6550c, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes)],
  except that the term includes property and interests necessary or
  convenient for the provision of a nonrural rail transportation
  system.
               (5)  "Revenue" ["Revenues"] has the meaning assigned by
  Section 172.001 [Chapter 623, Acts of the 67th Legislature, Regular
  Session, 1981 (Article 6550c, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes)].
         SECTION 4.04.  Section 171.002, Transportation Code, is
  amended to read as follows:
         Sec. 171.002.  APPLICABILITY OF RURAL RAIL TRANSPORTATION
  DISTRICTS LAW.  (a)  Except as provided by this chapter, the
  provisions of Chapter 172 other than Section 172.003 [Sections 2-9,
  Chapter 623, Acts of the 67th Legislature, Regular Session, 1981
  (Article 6550c, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes),] apply to a
  district as if the district were created under that chapter.
         (b)  For purposes of applying Chapter 172 [623, Acts of the
  67th Legislature, Regular Session, 1981 (Article 6550c, Vernon's
  Texas Civil Statutes),] to a district created under this chapter, a
  reference to "rail facilities" in Chapter 172 [Chapter 623] means
  "rail facilities" as defined by Section 171.001.
         (c)  For purposes of applying Chapter 172 [623, Acts of the
  67th Legislature, Regular Session, 1981 (Article 6550c, Vernon's
  Texas Civil Statutes),] to a district created under this chapter, a
  reference in Chapter 172 [Chapter 623] to "eligible county" means a
  county that created the district.
         SECTION 4.05.  Section 171.053, Transportation Code, is
  amended to read as follows:
         Sec. 171.053.  INTERMUNICIPAL COMMUTER RAIL DISTRICT
  POWERS.  The governing bodies of the county or counties and of the
  most populous municipality in the most populous county may provide
  that the district may exercise the powers of an intermunicipal
  commuter rail district created under Chapter 173 or former Article
  6550c-1, Revised Statutes, by specifying in the concurrent order or
  ordinance creating the district that those powers may be exercised
  by the district.
         SECTION 4.06.  Section 171.154, Transportation Code, is
  amended to read as follows:
         Sec. 171.154.  INTERMUNICIPAL COMMUTER RAIL POWERS.  (a)  
  The district may exercise the powers of an intermunicipal commuter
  rail district created under Chapter 173 or former Article 6550c-1,
  Revised Statutes, only if the concurrent order or ordinance
  creating the district specifies that the district may exercise
  those powers.  The order or ordinance may not grant the district
  the power to impose a tax.
         (b)  In the event of a conflict between this chapter and a
  power granted by Chapter 173 [Article 6550c-1, Revised Statutes],
  this chapter controls.  In the event of a conflict between Chapter
  173 [Article 6550c-1] and Chapter 172 [Chapter 623, Acts of the 67th
  Legislature, Regular Session, 1981 (Article 6550c, Vernon's Texas
  Civil Statutes)], Chapter 172 [Article 6550c] controls over Chapter
  173 [Article 6550c-1].
         SECTION 4.07. Section 171.251, Transportation Code, is
  amended to read as follows:
         Sec. 171.251.  PLEDGE OF REVENUE [REVENUES]. A district may
  secure and pledge revenue [revenues] derived from any source to
  secure the payment of district bonds.
         SECTION 4.08.  Section 171.302, Transportation Code, is
  amended to read as follows:
         Sec. 171.302.  DISSOLUTION.  In addition to the dissolution
  procedures provided by Chapter 172 [Chapter 623, Acts of the 67th
  Legislature, Regular Session, 1981 (Article 6550c, Vernon's Texas
  Civil Statutes)], the board may dissolve a district if:
               (1)  all district liabilities have been paid or
  adequate provision has been made for the payment of all
  liabilities;
               (2)  the district is not a party to any lawsuits or
  adequate provision has been made for the satisfaction of any
  judgment or order that may be entered against the district in a
  lawsuit to which the district is a party; and
               (3)  the district has commitments from other
  governmental entities to assume jurisdiction of all district rail
  facilities.
         SECTION 4.09.  Section 370.186(d), Transportation Code, is
  amended to read as follows:
         (d)  An authority may not construct, maintain, or operate a
  passenger rail facility within the boundaries of an intermunicipal
  commuter rail district created under former Article 6550c-1,
  Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes, as those boundaries existed on
  September 1, 2005, unless the district and the authority enter into
  a written agreement specifying the terms and conditions under which
  the project will be undertaken.
         SECTION 4.10.  Section 452.056(d), Transportation Code, is
  amended to read as follows:
         (d)  A private operator who contracts with an authority under
  this chapter is not a public entity for purposes of any law of this
  state except that an independent contractor of the authority that,
  on or after June 14, 1989, performs a function of the authority or
  an entity described by Section 452.0561 [under Title 112, Revised
  Statutes,] that is created to provide transportation services is
  liable for damages only to the extent that the authority or entity
  would be liable if the authority or entity itself were performing
  the function and only for a cause of action that accrues on or after
  that date.
         SECTION 4.11.  Section 25.07(b), Tax Code, as amended by
  Chapters 609, 885, and 1169, Acts of the 80th Legislature, Regular
  Session, 2007, is reenacted and amended to read as follows:
         (b)  Except as provided by Sections 11.11(b) and (c), a
  leasehold or other possessory interest in exempt property may not
  be listed if:
               (1)  the property is permanent university fund land;
               (2)  the property is county public school fund
  agricultural land;
               (3)  the property is a part of a public transportation
  facility owned by a municipality or county and:
                     (A)  is an airport passenger terminal building or
  a building used primarily for maintenance of aircraft or other
  aircraft services, for aircraft equipment storage, or for air
  cargo;
                     (B)  is an airport fueling system facility;
                     (C)  is in a foreign-trade zone:
                           (i)  that has been granted to a joint airport
  board under Subchapter C, Chapter 681, Business & Commerce Code;
                           (ii)  the area of which in the portion of the
  zone located in the airport operated by the joint airport board does
  not exceed 2,500 acres; and
                           (iii)  that is established and operating
  pursuant to federal law; or
                     (D)(i)  is in a foreign trade zone established
  pursuant to federal law after June 1, 1991, that [which] operates
  pursuant to federal law;
                           (ii)  is contiguous to or has access via a
  taxiway to an airport located in two counties, one of which has a
  population of 500,000 or more according to the federal decennial
  census most recently preceding the establishment of the foreign
  trade zone; and
                           (iii)  is owned, directly or through a
  corporation organized under the Development Corporation Act
  (Subtitle C1, Title 12, Local Government Code), by the same
  municipality that [which] owns the airport;
               (4)  the interest is in a part of:
                     (A)  a park, market, fairground, or similar public
  facility that is owned by a municipality; or
                     (B)  a convention center, visitor center, sports
  facility with permanent seating, concert hall, arena, or stadium
  that is owned by a municipality as such leasehold or possessory
  interest serves a governmental, municipal, or public purpose or
  function when the facility is open to the public, regardless of
  whether a fee is charged for admission;
               (5)  the interest involves only the right to use the
  property for grazing or other agricultural purposes; [or]
               (6)  the property is:
                     (A)  owned by a municipality, a public port, or a
  navigation district created or operating under Section 59, Article
  XVI, Texas Constitution, or under a statute enacted under Section
  59, Article XVI, Texas Constitution; and
                     (B)  used as an aid or facility incidental to or
  useful in the operation or development of a port or waterway or in
  aid of navigation-related commerce; or
               (7) [(8)]  the property is part of a rail facility
  owned by a rural rail transportation district [created or]
  operating under Chapter 172, Transportation Code [623, Acts of the
  67th Legislature, Regular Session, 1981 (Article 6550c, Vernon's
  Texas Civil Statutes)].
  ARTICLE 5. REPEALER
         SECTION 5.01.  (a)  The following provisions are repealed:
               (1)  Title 112, Revised Statutes;
               (2)  Article 3922, Revised Statutes;
               (3)  Chapter 480 (H.B. 1656), Acts of the 73rd
  Legislature, Regular Session, 1993 (Article 6370c, Vernon's Texas
  Civil Statutes);
               (4)  Section 1, Chapter 140 (H.B. 525), Acts of the 40th
  Legislature, Regular Session, 1927 (Article 6447a, Vernon's Texas
  Civil Statutes);
               (5)  Section 1, Chapter 43 (H.B. 105), Acts of the 41st
  Legislature, 5th Called Session, 1930 (Article 6472a, Vernon's
  Texas Civil Statutes);
               (6)  Section 1, Chapter 262 (S.B. 125), Acts of the 41st
  Legislature, Regular Session, 1929 (Article 6519a, Vernon's Texas
  Civil Statutes);
               (7)  Section 8, Chapter 65 (S.B. 389), Acts of the 67th
  Legislature, Regular Session, 1981 (Article 6519c, Vernon's Texas
  Civil Statutes); and
               (8)  Chapter 623 (H.B. 1822), Acts of the 67th
  Legislature, Regular Session, 1981 (Article 6550c, Vernon's Texas
  Civil Statutes).
         (b)  The repeal of Title 112, Revised Statutes, by this Act
  does not affect the validity of statutes that were not added to
  Title 112, Revised Statutes, by the legislature, but were
  unofficially printed in that title by any publisher of the Texas
  statutes, except as those articles are specifically repealed in
  Subsection (a) of this section.
  ARTICLE 6.  LEGISLATIVE INTENT; EFFECTIVE DATE
         SECTION 6.01.  LEGISLATIVE INTENT OF NO SUBSTANTIVE CHANGE.
  This Act is enacted under Section 43, Article III, Texas
  Constitution. No substantive change in law is intended by this Act.
         SECTION 6.02.  EFFECTIVE DATE. This Act takes effect April
  1, 2011.