3/27/07-The House Law Enforcement Committee unanimously approved a bill that is intended to curb unsafe trucking operations. Currently, state law doesn't prohibit intrastate travel for motor carriers that have been deemed unfit or unsafe for interstate travel by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Association.
Sponsored by Rep. Joe Driver, R-Garland, HB1765 would prohibit motor carriers from operating intrastate if the FMCSA has prohibited them from operating in interstate commerce because of safety concerns. It also would prohibit an employer from knowingly permitting a person to drive such a vehicle if the employer is subject to an out-of-service order affecting a driver or vehicle.
Violators to the proposed rules would face up to $2,000 fines and/or 180 days in jail.
The bill now heads to the House floor for further consideration.
For bill status, call (512) 463-2182. In Texas, call 1-877-824-7038.

2/28/07-A bill in the House Law Enforcement Committee is intended to curb unsafe trucking operations. Currently, state law doesn't prohibit intrastate travel for motor carriers that have been deemed unfit or unsafe for interstate travel by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
Sponsored by Rep. Joe Driver, R-Garland, HB1765 would prohibit motor carriers from operating intrastate if the FMCSA has prohibited them from operating in interstate commerce because of safety concerns. It also would prohibit an employer from knowingly permitting a person to drive such a vehicle if the employer is subject to an out-of-service order affecting a driver or vehicle.
Violators to the proposed rules would face up to $2,000 fines and/or 180 days in jail.
For bill status, call (512) 463-2182. In Texas, call 1-877-824-7038.
An identical Senate bill - SB332 - is in the Senate Transportation and Homeland Security Committee.