BILL ANALYSIS

H.B. 260

By: Blanco

International Relations & Economic Development

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

It has been suggested that required security inspections and increased traffic at border crossings create delays that are disruptive and costly to manufacturers, shippers, and, ultimately, consumers. H.B. 260 aims to reduce these delays by creating a web-based platform that will provide real-time information on traffic conditions and border wait times.

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. 260 amends the Transportation Code to require the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), in collaboration with the Texas A&M Transportation Institute, to develop, not later than September 1, 2021, and maintain a publicly accessible web portal designed to provide real‑time information regarding motor vehicle movements at ports of entry between Texas and the United Mexican States and in surrounding areas for the purpose of alleviating cross-border motor vehicle traffic congestion. The bill authorizes TxDOT, in developing and maintaining the web portal, to collaborate with other governmental entities, including federal agencies, state and local transportation agencies of Texas or the United Mexican States, and political subdivisions of Texas or the United Mexican States.

EFFECTIVE DATE

On passage, or, if the bill does not receive the necessary vote, September 1, 2019.