Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

Texas House Bill HB2675

Filed
 
Out of House Committee
4/19/11  
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Department of Transportation; providing penalties.

Impact

The legislation impacts the administration of permits related to oversize and overweight vehicles. Specifically, it stipulates that the department may charge an administrative fee for permit applications, which serves to recoup the costs associated with processing these permits. This measure is anticipated to create a more streamlined permit process while ensuring the department can adequately fund its regulatory responsibilities. Additionally, it establishes that penalties may accompany violations of these permits, ensuring higher compliance among transportation operators.

Summary

House Bill 2675 proposes various amendments to the Texas Transportation Code with the main focus on continuing the essential functions of the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). It aims to clarify the definitions of local transportation entities and outlines the eligibility requirements for members of the transportation commission. Notably, the bill establishes prohibitions against accepting campaign contributions for commissioners, designed to prevent conflicts of interest and enhance ethical governance within the department's oversight.

Contention

A critical point of contention within discussions around HB 2675 involves the potential consequences of the proposed administrative fees and penalties on small businesses and local transportation entities. Critics argue that imposing these fees could place a financial burden on smaller operators, making it challenging to navigate regulations without incurring significant costs. Moreover, the strict enforcement measures regarding campaign contributions have led to discussions around the transparency and integrity of local governance, which some stakeholders feel could lead to a reduction in participation in public office.

Companion Bills

TX SB1420

Identical Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Department of Transportation; providing penalties.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1520

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department and the functions of the office of independent ombudsman for the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.

TX SB1727

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, the functions of the office of independent ombudsman for the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, and the powers and duties of the office of inspector general of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.

TX HB1530

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement.

TX SB1445

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement; authorizing a fee.

TX SB1940

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Economic Development and Tourism Office.

TX SB1397

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

TX HB1515

Relating to the continuation and functions of and certain programs subject to rules adopted by the Texas Economic Development and Tourism Office.

TX HB1505

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

TX SB1368

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Public Utility Commission of Texas and the Office of Public Utility Counsel, and the functions of the independent organization certified for the ERCOT power region.

TX HB1565

Relating to the functions of the Texas Water Development Board and continuation and functions of the State Water Implementation Fund for Texas Advisory Committee.

Similar Bills

TX SB1420

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Department of Transportation; providing penalties.

TX HB300

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Department of Transportation, including the transfer of certain functions to the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles and the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation; providing penalties.

TX SB1019

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Department of Transportation, including the transfer of certain functions to the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles; providing penalties.

TX SB604

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles and to the operations of certain other entities performing functions associated with the department.

TX HB1541

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles and to the operations of certain other entities performing functions associated with the department.

TX SB312

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Department of Transportation; authorizing an increase in rates charged for the use of state aircraft to provide for the acquisition of replacement aircraft; creating a criminal offense.