81R11936 JD-D
By: Ellis S.B. No. 2361
A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT
relating to the operation of certain three-wheeled vehicles in this
state.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
SECTION 1. Section 521.001(a), Transportation Code, is
amended by adding Subdivision (6-a) to read as follows:
(6-a) "Motorcycle" includes an enclosed three-wheeled
passenger vehicle that:
(A) is designed to operate with three wheels in
contact with the ground;
(B) has an unladen weight of at least 900 pounds;
(C) has a single cab with an enclosed passenger
seating area and seats similar to those of a passenger vehicle;
(D) at a minimum, is equipped with:
(i) an automotive steering system and a
steering wheel used to maneuver the vehicle;
(ii) a motor unit or power train located in
front of or behind the operator;
(iii) a safety belt for each passenger;
(iv) a windshield and windshield wipers;
and
(v) a roll bar; and
(E) is produced by its manufacturer in a minimum
number of 100 in any calendar year.
SECTION 2. Section 521.166, Transportation Code, is amended
by adding Subsection (c) to read as follows:
(c) An applicant is not required to comply with Subsection
(a) if the motorcycle of the applicant is:
(1) of the type described by Section 521.001(a)(6-a);
and
(2) equipped with a seat and a safety belt for both the
applicant and the license examiner.
SECTION 3. Section 680.013, Transportation Code, is amended
to read as follows:
Sec. 680.013. USE OF PREFERENTIAL LANE BY MOTORCYCLE. A
motorcycle, including a motorcycle described by Section
521.001(a)(6-a), may be operated in a preferential lane that is not
closed to all vehicular traffic.
SECTION 4. This Act takes effect September 1, 2009.