85R4967 MTB-D By: Minjarez H.B. No. 1294 A BILL TO BE ENTITLED AN ACT relating to the economic impact of closures on the state highway system during certain periods. BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS: SECTION 1. Subchapter B, Chapter 224, Transportation Code, is amended by adding Section 224.034 to read as follows: Sec. 224.034. HIGHWAY CLOSURES DURING CERTAIN PERIODS. (a) If a proposed improvement of the state highway system requires the closing of a highway, the department shall coordinate the highway closure by communicating in person or by telephone call, e-mail, or other direct method of communication with public officials from municipalities affected by the closure to avoid any adverse economic impact on the municipalities during: (1) periods of increased travel on the state highway system, including major state and federal holidays and school holidays; and (2) other periods of high commercial activity in the state, including limited periods in which certain items are exempted from the sales tax imposed by Chapter 151, Tax Code. (b) The department shall submit an annual report to the governor, the lieutenant governor, the speaker of the house of representatives, and each member of the legislature detailing all highway closures during periods listed in Subsection (a) and the estimated economic impact of those closures. SECTION 2. This Act takes effect September 1, 2017.