Relating to erecting an off-premise sign adjacent to and visible from State Highway 46 or from Farm-to-Market Road 306, 2722, 2673, 3009, 3159, or 1863 in Comal County.
Impact
If enacted, SB1318 will directly affect any individual or business looking to install off-premise signage visible from the designated highways. By restricting signage in certain areas, the bill aims to regulate visual exposure, thereby controlling advertising proliferation along these routes. This may enhance the visual landscape of Comal County and could also influence tourism or local commerce which relies on road visibility for advertising their businesses.
Summary
Senate Bill 1318 pertains to the regulation of off-premise signs along specific highways in Comal County, Texas. The bill proposes amendments to the Transportation Code, explicitly detailing the locations where such signs may not be erected. It focuses particularly on making certain segments of highways off-limits for visual advertising, with the intention of preserving the aesthetic values of the area and possibly addressing safety concerns related to distracted driving or visual clutter along highways.
Contention
The bill may be met with opposition from businesses that rely heavily on signage for visibility among passersby. Supporters of the bill might argue that the preservation of scenic views and safer road conditions outweigh these concerns about business interests. The specifics regarding which highways are included in the restriction highlight a focused approach to local governance, potentially sparking debate over the balance between economic interests and community aesthetic values in legislative forums.