BILL ANALYSIS

H.B. 1736

By: Bohac

Transportation

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Currently, it is a misdemeanor offense if a person fails to change lanes or slow down when passing an emergency vehicle displaying emergency lighting.  Certain other offenses have penalty enhancements if commission of the offense results in serious bodily injury or death.  H.B. 1736 enhances the penalty for illegally passing a stationary authorized emergency vehicle if the violation results in serious bodily injury or death.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency, or institution.

ANALYSIS

H.B. 1736 amends the Transportation Code to enhance the penalty for illegally passing a stationary authorized emergency vehicle from a misdemeanor to a third degree felony if the violation results in serious bodily injury or death.

EFFECTIVE DATE

September 1, 2011.