BILL ANALYSIS

S.B. 688

By: Perry

Transportation

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

It has been noted that single motor vehicles transporting seed cotton or cotton are limited to a height of 14 feet 6 inches, but a truck-tractor operated in combination with a semitrailer hauling these products is limited to a lower height of 14 feet. There have been calls to harmonize the height limitations to accommodate new types of equipment on the market. S.B. 688 seeks to address this issue by revising the height limitations for a truck-tractor operated in combination with a semitrailer hauling seed cotton and cotton. 

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

S.B. 688 amends the Transportation Code to prohibit a truck-tractor operated in combination with a semitrailer and used to transport seed cotton or cotton from being operated on a highway or road if the vehicle is higher than 14 feet 6 inches.

EFFECTIVE DATE

September 1, 2019.