Texas House Bill HB823

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to criminal liability for certain federal motor carrier safety regulation violations; increasing a criminal penalty.

Impact

The implementation of HB 823 is expected to impact state laws by aligning Texas statutes with federal standards governing motor carrier safety. By increasing the penalties for specific safety violations, the bill seeks to enhance compliance among motor carriers, thereby improving overall road safety. This change reflects a commitment by the state legislature to prioritize safety in transportation, translating to potentially fewer accidents attributable to improper vehicle maintenance or unsafe load securement practices.

Summary

House Bill 823 relates to the criminal liability associated with violations of certain federal motor carrier safety regulations, specifically addressing issues concerning brakes, tires, and load securement. The bill proposes increasing the penalties for offenses under Section 644.151 of the Transportation Code. Under the amended law, violations in these areas are classified as Class C misdemeanors, with fines set between $150 and $500 based on the nature of the regulation violated. The bill aims to ensure adherence to federal safety standards by imposing stricter penalties on offenders.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 823 appears to be generally supportive among lawmakers, as there is a recognition of the importance of adhering to established safety regulations in the transportation sector. By backing legislation that increases accountability for motor carriers, legislative advocates argue that the bill will foster a safer environment for all road users. However, concerns may exist from some industry stakeholders regarding the added financial burden these penalties could impose, particularly on small operators with tighter profit margins.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support, it also brings forth some contention regarding adequate enforcement and the balancing act between regulation and industry operational capabilities. Stakeholders may debate whether increased fines would serve as a genuine deterrent or simply add to the burdens of compliance that businesses face. Additionally, clarity regarding how these penalties will be enforced and whether they discriminate against smaller businesses compared to larger operators could remain points of discussion among members of the committee.