Bill Caption

Relating to the authority of a district engineer for the Texas Department of Transportation to temporarily lower speed limits.

Fiscal Notes

No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.

Bill Analysis

SB 1327 would allow a district engineer, without approval of from the Transportation Commission, to temporarily lower a prima facie speed limit for a highway or part of a highway in a district if the district engineer determines that the prima facie speed limit for the highway or part of highway is unreasonable or unsafe because of a hazard such as wet or inclement weather; construction; or any other hazardous condition. Under this bill if the district engineer lowers the speed limit they must place and maintain signs that show the lowered speed limit in effect. The speed limit would remain in place for 30 days or until the next meeting of the Transportation Commission, whichever is earlier.

Vote Recommendation Notes

Though highways are indeed under the complete control of the state and this bill is within the legitimate authority of government, we believe this bill is unnecessary. Drivers are responsible for driving to conditions and if they travel at what a law enforcement officer believes to be hazardous speed based on conditions, they can initiate a stop. Also, this bill could cause confusion with those who frequently drive the same road. All that being said, we still recognize that this issue is within the authority of the legislature to address therefore remain neutral.