Honorable Robert Nichols, Chair, Senate Committee on Transportation
FROM:
Ursula Parks, Director, Legislative Budget Board
IN RE:
HB1249 by Goldman (Relating to a prohibition of certain motor vehicles resembling emergency medical services vehicles; creating a criminal offense.), As Engrossed
No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
The bill would amend the Health and Safety Code prohibiting a person from operating a vehicle that resembles an emergency medical services vehicle unless they are operating as an emergency medical services vehicle or other legitimate governmental function including police or firefighting services. The bill establishes exterior markings or features of an emergency medical services vehicle.
The bill would create a Class C misdemeanor for unlawfully operating a vehicle that resembles an emergency medical services vehicle.
The bill would take effect September 1, 2017.
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.