Texas House Bill HB3309

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Out of House Committee: 4/26/11
• Introduced: 3/11/11
• Voted on by House: 5/4/11
• Refer: 3/18/11
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/17/11
• Report Pass: 4/18/11
• Voted on by Senate: 5/24/11
• Engrossed: 5/4/11
• Governor Action: 6/17/11
• Refer: 5/5/11
• Report Pass: 5/17/11
• Enrolled: 5/25/11
• Passed: 6/17/11

Caption

Relating to the authority to set maximum weights for state highways, roads, and bridges.

Impact

The passage of HB3309 is expected to significantly impact state laws related to the regulation of vehicle weights on public roads. By granting the transportation director the power to set and enforce these weight limits based on engineering assessments, the bill aims to prevent damage to infrastructure that could arise from heavy vehicle operations. This could mean stricter controls and regulations for commercial transportation, potentially influencing logistics and shipping operations across the state.

Summary

House Bill 3309 addresses the authority of state transportation officials to set maximum weight limits for vehicles operating on state highways, roads, and bridges. The bill amends existing transportation code provisions to ensure that the director of the transportation commission can enforce weight limits if it is determined that exceeding these limits would compromise the structural integrity of roadways and bridges. This legislative move reflects an ongoing effort to maintain the safety and durability of vital transportation infrastructure in Texas.

Contention

While the bill seems to promote safety and infrastructure preservation, there may be points of contention among stakeholders, particularly those in the transportation industry. Businesses relying on heavy freight transport might raise concerns about the economic implications of stricter weight regulations, including how such restrictions could lead to increased operational costs. Additionally, local governments might seek more input or control over these regulations, particularly if specific local roads or routes are affected.