Texas Senate Bill SB967

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to the disclosure by the developer of the subdivision of planned highway projects that will go through or be adjacent to a subdivision.

Impact

The implications of SB967 on state laws are significant as it introduces new obligations for developers and local authorities. The bill amends the Business & Commerce Code and the Local Government Code to incorporate these disclosure requirements, which could lead to increased scrutiny over development projects in relation to highways. This change aims to foster informed decision-making among potential property buyers and is likely to influence the planning and approval process for subdivisions in Texas.

Summary

SB967 aims to enhance the transparency of planned highway projects that affect subdivisions by mandating that developers provide specific disclosures. Under this bill, any brochures, publications, or advertising associated with subdivided land sales must clearly indicate the location of all highway projects included in relevant transportation documents from the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) as well as local transportation entities. This would involve a detailed mapping of projects that are either passing through or running adjacent to the subdivisions to inform potential buyers of any future infrastructure developments that might impact their properties.

Contention

While SB967 has garnered support for promoting transparency, there may be concerns regarding the potential added bureaucratic burden it places on developers and local governments. Critics may argue that the requirements could hinder development by introducing additional steps in the marketing process. There could also be debates about the adequacy of disclosures and whether merely indicating nearby highway projects is sufficient to encompass the full impact of such infrastructural changes on the livability of subdivisions.

Notable_points

Overall, SB967 represents a proactive step towards integrating urban planning with community awareness of infrastructural developments. By enforcing strict advertising standards, the bill seeks to safeguard buyers from unforeseen consequences of adjacent highway projects. This legislation may not only enhance the real estate market's transparency in Texas but also encourage more responsible development practices among builders.