BILL ANALYSIS

H.B. 2419

By: Nevárez

Transportation

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Concerns have been raised regarding the growing international traffic congestion in certain border regions of Texas, such as the Middle Rio Grande region. In addition, recent reports indicate a high frequency of traffic accidents in these regions, resulting in further worsening traffic conditions. H.B. 2419 seeks to begin to address these issues by providing for a study to assess the long-term transportation needs of the region.

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. 2419 requires the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) to conduct a study to assess the long-term transportation needs of the area served by the Middle Rio Grande Planning Region council of governments. The bill requires the study to consider how transportation needs of the area relate to economic development, commuter safety, traffic congestion, and homeland security. The bill requires TxDOT, not later than January 1, 2021, to submit a report on the results of the study to the governor, the lieutenant governor, the speaker of the house of representatives, and the presiding officer of each standing committee of the legislature with jurisdiction over transportation matters. The bill's provisions expire on January 31, 2021.

EFFECTIVE DATE

September 1, 2019.