BILL ANALYSIS
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Senate Research Center |
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AUTHOR'S / SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT
Many secured access points and automobiles have electric devices that unlock the access point or vehicle or start the vehicle. With regard to automobiles, these devices sometimes include a chip on or embedded in the head of a key or key fob device that may be carried in a pocket. Because recent lock technology has moved beyond basic mechanical devices, statutory provisions relating to private security should be updated to reflect the addition of these modern lock devices. H.B. 988 addresses this issue by providing a definition for "lock."
H.B. 988 amends current law relating to the definition of a lock for purposes of the regulation of certain private security companies and occupations.
RULEMAKING AUTHORITY
This bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency.
SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS
SECTION 1. Amends Section 1702.002, Occupations Code, by adding Subdivision (13-a), as follows:
(13-a) Defines "lock" to mean a fastening device that:
(A) is used to secure, regulate, activate, or control a door, gate, drawer, cabinet, safe, or automobile by means of a mechanical or electric device, including a latch, bolt, key, transmitter, card-reader, keypad, or proximity key fob; and
(B) is not monitored by security personnel or services and does not send a signal to which law enforcement or emergency services respond.
SECTION 2. Effective date: upon passage or September 1, 2013.