House Bill 2956 seeks to amend existing regulations concerning outdoor advertising, specifically by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). The bill proposes comprehensive changes to the Local Government Code and the Transportation Code, including the introduction of penalties for compliance violations. One notable provision is the establishment of a height limit for outdoor signs, setting a maximum height of 65 feet. This is aimed at enhancing roadway safety and reducing visual clutter along public roads.
The bill modifies the mandate for municipalities regarding the regulation of signs, allowing them to require the relocation or removal of signs within their limits. It proposes the creation of a municipal board dedicated to overseeing sign control, integrating professionals from diverse fields such as real estate and architecture to ensure a well-rounded decision-making process. The overall goal is to streamline and balance local needs with state regulations on advertising signage.
A contentious aspect of HB2956 is its potential to conflict with local ordinances, especially in areas where municipalities might have more stringent requirements for signage. Critics argue that this preemption of local authority could hinder efforts to control the aesthetic character of communities, potentially allowing for more intrusive advertising in public spaces. Proponents, however, assert that standardizing regulations will create clarity for businesses while improving public safety.
The effective date of the bill is set for September 1, 2017, bringing immediate changes to the landscape of outdoor advertising in Texas. As it stands, the bill is positioned to be a significant shift in how outdoor advertising is governed in the state, reflecting the ongoing struggle between local autonomy and state oversight.