Honorable Robert Nichols, Chair, Senate Committee on Transportation
FROM:
Ursula Parks, Director, Legislative Budget Board
IN RE:
HB2722 by Goldman (Relating to prohibition of the operation and sale of certain motor vehicles resembling authorized emergency vehicles; creating a criminal offense.), As Engrossed
No fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
The bill would amend the Transportation Code to prohibit an individual from operating a motor vehicle that resembled an authorized emergency vehicle unless the individual uses the vehicle to provide emergency services as authorized by law. The bill puts forth criteria of a motor vehicle that could lead a reasonable person to believe that the vehicle is an authorized emergency vehicle. The bill would create a Class C misdemeanor if a person violates the Chapter. The bill would prohibit a political subdivision or a private person from selling or transferring an authorized emergency vehicle to certain parties unless all equipment or insignia is removed. A person who sells or transfers an authorized emergency vehicle in violation of the section is liable for damages proximately caused by the use of that vehicle during the commission of a crime. The bill provides exceptions.
Local Government Impact
A Class C misdemeanor is punishable by a fine of not more than $500. Costs associated with enforcement and prosecution could likely be absorbed within existing resources. Revenue gain from fines imposed and collected is not anticipated to have a significant fiscal impact. In addition to the fine, punishment can include up to 180 days of deferred disposition.