Honorable Ryan Guillen, Chair, House Committee on Culture, Recreation & Tourism
FROM:
John S O'Brien, Director, Legislative Budget Board
IN RE:
HB283 by Lucio III (Relating to the wheelchair accessibility of new or renovated park playgrounds to children with disabilities.), As Introduced
No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
The bill would amend portions of the Parks and Wildlife Code to mandate that newly constructed playgrounds or those playgrounds with at least 50 percent renovated equipment be wheelchair accessible. The connecting surface between the playground and parking lot must also be wheelchair accessible. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission must consult with the Department of Aging and Disability Services or other qualified person for advice on appropriate construction design. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) reports projects under the scope of bill provisions are currently not anticipated, but should such a project were to materialize, current practice regarding new playgrounds, or repair and replacement of playground equipment would meet or exceed the requirements of the bill. Accordingly, no significant fiscal implication to TPWD or the state is anticipated. The bill would take effect September 1, 2011.
Local Government Impact
The bill would only have associated costs if the locality is creating or renovationg a park. No significant fiscal implication to units of local government is anticipated.