BILL ANALYSIS

Senate Research Center	S.B. 276
88R1061 BEE-F	By: Huffman
	Water, Agriculture, & Rural Affairs
	3/9/2023
	As Filed

AUTHOR'S / SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT

New outboard boat motors can cost thousands of dollars, making them prohibitively expensive. By contrast, an older motor can cost much less; however, many older outboard motors often lack the documentation needed to legally transfer ownership. Current state regulations prohibit the use of any outboard motor without a title on public waterways except under certain conditions.

S.B. 276 would define an antique outboard motor as an outboard motor that is at least 40 years old with a maximum capacity of 25 horsepower. This statutory change would make it easier for Texans to purchase, and legally use, antique outboard motors of limited capacity on public waterways without a title.

As proposed, S.B. 276 amends current law relating to certificates of title for certain outboard motors.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

This bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency.

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1. Amends Section 31.055, Parks and Wildlife Code, as follows:

Sec. 31.055. EXCEPTIONS. Provides that Subchapter B-1 (Certificates of Title for Vessels and Outboard Motors) does not apply to:

(1) creates subdivision from existing text; or

(2) an outboard motor that:

(A) is at least 40 years of age; and

(B) has a capacity of not more than 25 horsepower.

SECTION 2. Effective date: September 1, 2023.