BILL ANALYSIS

H.B. 3144

By: Lozano

Transportation

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Bicycling has become increasingly popular in Texas, partly as a result of the ideal biking conditions on Texas highways that offer flat surfaces, optimal weather, and a plentiful supply of scenic vistas. However, interested parties contend that, despite the beauty and utility of Texas highways, the highways do not guarantee bicyclist safety. Citing estimates of over 2,000 annual accidents involving bicycles over the past five years and the injuries and fatalities caused by the accidents, the parties call for an effort to raise awareness regarding bicyclist safety. H.B. 3144 seeks to provide for this awareness. 

CRIMINAL JUSTICE IMPACT

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly create a criminal offense, increase the punishment for an existing criminal offense or category of offenses, or change the eligibility of a person for community supervision, parole, or mandatory supervision.

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. 3144 amends the Transportation Code to include a person killed in a highway accident while riding on a bicycle among the individuals publicly memorialized in the memorial sign program established and administered by the Texas Transportation Commission.

EFFECTIVE DATE

September 1, 2015.