Honorable Garnet Coleman, Chair, House Committee on County Affairs
FROM:
Ursula Parks, Director, Legislative Budget Board
IN RE:
HB1183 by Roberts (Relating to the prohibition by counties of the use of fireworks during certain hours; creating a criminal offense.), As Introduced
No fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
The bill would amend the Local Government Code allowing a commissioners court of a county may prohibit the use of fireworks in an unincorporated area during the hours specified by the order. The order may include exemptions for holidays including New Year's Eve and July 4th.
A person commits a Class C misdemeanor if they intentionally or knowingly violate the order.
The bill would take effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds vote in each house; otherwise it would take effect September 1, 2017.
Local Government Impact
According to Texas Municipal League, no significant fiscal implication to units of local government is anticipated.
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.