Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Texas House Bill HB2168

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

Caption

Relating to authorization to enter onto property to survey for a proposed high-speed rail facility.

Impact

The implementation of HB 2168 is expected to streamline the process through which high-speed rail surveys are conducted. By clarifying the terms under which private entities can access land, the bill aims to mitigate potential disputes over property rights and establish a more organized framework for surveying activities that support Texas's broader transportation infrastructure goals. This could assist in faster development of high-speed rail projects, which proponents argue will enhance connectivity and economic growth.

Summary

House Bill 2168 seeks to establish clear guidelines regarding the authorization for private entities to enter onto properties for the purpose of surveying land in relation to proposed high-speed rail facilities. Specifically, the bill allows private entities, under the supervision of the Texas Department of Transportation, to conduct examinations or surveys necessary for the development of intercity passenger rail services that are expected to travel at speeds of at least 110 miles per hour. This legislation emphasizes the need for regulatory oversight in facilitating such significant transportation projects.

Contention

A notable point of contention surrounding HB 2168 includes the balance between the need for infrastructure development and the rights of property owners. Critics may express concerns about potential overreach by private entities into personal or corporate lands, fearing a compromise of property rights without adequate consent or compensation. Furthermore, the delineation of procedures to determine which entities qualify as a 'railroad company' under the new law may elicit debate among stakeholders about the inclusivity and regulatory fairness of the authorization process.

Companion Bills

TX SB973

Identical Relating to authorization to enter onto property to survey for a proposed high-speed rail facility.

Previously Filed As

TX HB3870

Relating to the disposition of real property acquired for high-speed rail projects.

TX HB2931

Relating to limitations on the applicability of certain statutes to high-speed rail.

TX HB366

Relating to the filing of a bond by a private high-speed rail operator with the Texas Department of Transportation.

TX HB4551

Relating to a required water quality permit for construction of a high-speed rail project.

TX HB2357

Relating to provision to the Texas Department of Transportation of information regarding certain high-speed rail projects.

TX HB1302

Relating to inspections and examinations by the Railroad Commission of Texas of certain sites and facilities conducted using unmanned aircraft.

TX SB1984

Relating to public-private partnerships for public and private facilities and infrastructure.

TX HB2432

Relating to the liability of an owner, lessee, or occupant of real property in connection with the use of or entry onto the property.

TX HB3716

Relating to the authorization of certain adult high school charter school programs.

TX SJR1

Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for the creation of the Texas energy insurance fund and the authorization of other funding mechanisms to support the construction and operation of electric generating facilities.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.