Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas House Bill HB2044

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the setback requirements for a junkyard or an automotive wrecking and salvage yard.

Impact

The impact of HB 2044 primarily affects local zoning regulations related to junkyards and salvage yards. By establishing these setback requirements, the bill aims to enhance public safety and property values in nearby residential communities. Existing junkyards that were in operation before the enactment of this law will not be forced to relocate but will continue to operate under the previous regulations, demonstrating a recognition of established businesses while preventing the introduction of new ones in undesirable locations.

Summary

House Bill 2044 addresses the setback requirements for junkyards and automotive wrecking and salvage yards. The bill specifies that these facilities must not be located within 50 feet of the right-of-way of a public street or state highway, nor within 50 feet of the nearest property line of a residence. This change aims to improve the safety and aesthetic concerns associated with having such facilities in closer proximity to residential areas and public infrastructure. The clear demarcation helps in maintaining a buffer zone around junkyards, which can contain hazardous materials and generate noise or traffic issues.

Contention

While the bill is designed to address clear public safety and community aesthetic concerns, it may face contention from owners and operators of junkyards who might argue that the increased setbacks could limit their business opportunities. They may contend that existing local laws already offer sufficient controls without the need for state-level mandates. Additionally, some local governments might express concerns that the state regulations preclude their ability to manage land use effectively according to local needs.

Additional_notes

The bill's enactment date is set for September 1, 2015, which highlights the ongoing legislative efforts to revise land use laws to respond to community concerns. By implementing these changes, the legislative body seeks to strike a balance between allowing for commercial activities while protecting the interests of local residents and ensuring public safety.

Companion Bills

TX SB1436

Identical Relating to the setback requirements for a junkyard or an automotive wrecking and salvage yard; amending provisions subject to a criminal penalty.

Previously Filed As

TX HB3577

Relating to the issuance of title to a salvage pool operator for certain motor vehicles.

TX SB1263

Relating to the issuance of title to a salvage pool operator for certain motor vehicles.

TX SB432

Relating to the prosecution of and punishment for theft of a catalytic converter; increasing a criminal penalty.

TX SB465

Relating to certain criminal conduct involving a catalytic converter; creating a criminal offense; increasing criminal penalties.

TX SB224

Relating to catalytic converters, including criminal conduct involving catalytic converters; providing an administrative penalty; creating a criminal offense; increasing a criminal penalty; increasing a fee.

TX HB4598

Relating to catalytic converters, including criminal conduct involving catalytic converters; providing an administrative penalty; creating a criminal offense; increasing a criminal penalty; increasing a fee.

TX HB344

Relating to the requirements for notice of a standard permit for certain concrete plants.

TX HB4543

Relating to an exception to the titling requirement for certain motor vehicles; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB4424

Relating to an exception to the titling requirement for certain motor vehicles; creating a criminal offense.

TX SB528

Relating to an exception to the titling requirement for certain motor vehicles; creating a criminal offense.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.