LEGISLATIVE BUDGET BOARD

Austin, Texas

FISCAL NOTE, 81ST LEGISLATIVE REGULAR SESSION

March 20, 2009

TO:	Honorable John Carona, Chair, Senate Committee on Transportation & Homeland Security
FROM:	John S. O'Brien, Director, Legislative Budget Board
IN RE:	SB702 by Carona (Relating to the regulation of the towing and storage of vehicles.), Committee Report 1st House, Substituted

No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.

The bill would require the Texas Commission of Licensing and Regulation to adopt rules for the issuance of a dual license for a person who is a vehicle storage facility employee and towing operator. The bill would also authorize the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) under specified conditions to issue a training license for a tow-truck operator. The bill also would require the Texas Commission of Licensing and Regulation to adopt model alcohol and drug testing policy for towing operators.

The bill would require political subdivisions to regulate the fees that may be charged or collected in connection with a nonconsent tow. The bill also would require public notice regarding the amount that may be charged for towing be posted on a sign required under Subchapter G, Chapter 2308 of the Occupations Code.

TDLR estimates the duties and responsibilities associated with implementing the provisions of the bill could be accomplished by utilizing existing resources.

Local Government Impact

No significant fiscal implication to units of local government is anticipated.

Source Agencies:

452 Department of Licensing and Regulation

LBB Staff:

JOB, ES, TP, KJG, MW