Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1023

Filed
2/17/23  
Out of Senate Committee
3/15/23  
Voted on by Senate
4/3/23  
Out of House Committee
4/27/23  
Voted on by House
5/5/23  
Governor Action
5/19/23  

Caption

Relating to the establishment and posting of the maximum loads permitted on certain bridges.

Impact

If passed, SB1023 will allow TxDOT to assist counties and municipalities in the installation of signage that reflects the maximum loads permitted on various bridges. This support not only assures adherence to federal laws but also promotes a standardized approach to bridge safety across the state. The bill emphasizes cooperation between state and local authorities, aiming to bolster public safety without imposing excessive regulatory burdens on local governments.

Summary

Senate Bill 1023 aims to enhance public safety by establishing a framework for posting maximum load limits on certain bridges managed by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) as well as local government entities. The core objective of the bill is to ensure compliance with federal regulations regarding load posting on bridges, which is essential to prevent overloading and possible structural failures. By ensuring that these postings are clear and compliant, the bill seeks to mitigate risks associated with heavy vehicle traffic on bridges throughout Texas.

Sentiment

General sentiment around SB1023 appears to be supportive, particularly from organizations such as the Texas Trucking Association and the Conference of Urban Counties, who recognize the importance of having clear and reliable weight limits posted on bridges. Advocacy for the bill came from various stakeholders, reflecting a consensus that such regulations are vital for maintaining safety standards on transportation infrastructure. The lack of opposition during discussions further indicates widespread agreement regarding the necessity of this measure.

Contention

While the bill has garnered broad support, some members of the community have raised concerns about local control in enforcing these regulations. The potential for state oversight on local infrastructure decisions could lead to discussions on the balance of authority between state and local governments. However, the legislative process seems to prioritize public safety over these concerns, with proponents arguing that uniform safety standards benefit all by preventing potential accidents and fatalities caused by overloaded bridges.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Transportation Code

  • Chapter 201. General Provisions And Administration
    • Section: 8035
    • Section: 8035
    • Section: 8035
    • Section: 8035
    • Section: 8035

Companion Bills

TX HB3887

Identical Relating to the establishment and posting of the maximum loads permitted on certain bridges.

Previously Filed As

TX HB3887

Relating to the establishment and posting of the maximum loads permitted on certain bridges.

TX HB3309

Relating to the authority to set maximum weights for state highways, roads, and bridges.

TX HB2829

Relating to restaurants and certain alcoholic beverage permittees, including the rates of certain taxes imposed on items sold by those establishments and the applicability to those establishments of certain orders issued in response to a disaster or emergency; temporarily decreasing the rate of the state sales tax on certain items; temporarily decreasing the rate of the mixed beverage sales tax.

TX HB2223

Relating to a study by the Texas Department of Transportation on the impact of certain classifications of motor vehicle on the roads and bridges of this state.

TX HB94

Maximum Class Loads

TX HB2855

Relating to a study by the Texas A&M Transportation Institute on the impacts to state and local roads and bridges from increasing maximum weight limits for certain vehicles transporting sand.

TX HB4219

Relating to the maximum rate or amount of interest of certain consumer loans.

TX SB1835

Relating to the maximum number of nonresident scholarship students permitted to pay resident tuition and fees at certain public institutions of higher education.

TX HB1276

Relating to the sale of certain food by food service establishments.

TX SB785

Relating to the employee misconduct registry and employee certification posting requirements for certain facilities.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.