Texas House Bill HB2553

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of House Committee: 4/9/09
• Voted on by House: 4/22/09
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/23/09
• Voted on by Senate: 5/28/09
• Governor Action: 6/19/09
• Enrolled: 6/2/09
• Passed: 6/19/09

Caption

Relating to the registration and operation of certain motor vehicles.

Impact

The proposed changes will potentially streamline the registration process for off-highway vehicles, working to improve compliance among owners and operators. By establishing clearer definitions, the bill aims to reduce confusion regarding which vehicles require registration and what specific requirements apply to different types of off-highway vehicles. This clarification could lead to increased safety and accountability among users of these vehicles, benefitting public lands through enhanced oversight.

Summary

House Bill 2553 aims to amend the current regulations surrounding the registration and operation of certain off-highway vehicles in Texas. The bill defines off-highway vehicles more broadly by including all-terrain vehicles, off-highway motorcycles, and specific recreational off-highway vehicles that meet certain design criteria. This expansion is intended to clarify the types of vehicles that fall under the state's jurisdiction and require registration for lawful operation on designated public land.

Contention

While the bill may generally be perceived positively in terms of safety and regulation, there may be concerns regarding any potential financial implications for vehicle owners. Increased registration requirements could lead to additional costs for owners of off-highway vehicles, which could be a point of contention. Moreover, ensuring the effective implementation of these regulations may require collaboration among different state agencies, which could complicate the enforcement process.