Overall Vote Recommendation

Neutral

Principle Criteria

Free Enterprise

Property Rights

Personal Responsibility

Limited Government

Individual Liberty

Digest

HB 2153 proposes the designation of a specific portion of U.S. Highway 377 in Hood and Johnson Counties as the "Bob Cornett Parkway." The stretch in question is the relief route currently under construction around the city of Cresson as of September 1, 2024. This designation is intended to honor Bob Cornett, presumably a figure of local or regional significance, though the bill does not include biographical details.

The bill amends Subchapter B, Chapter 225 of the Texas Transportation Code by adding a new section (Sec. 225.243). This new section formally recognizes the commemorative name of the highway segment and stipulates that the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) must design and erect suitable markers at each end of the designated route, as well as at intermediate points, subject to its standard signage provisions in Section 225.021(c) of the Code.

This type of legislation is consistent with common Texas legislative practice involving symbolic acts to honor local leaders or public servants. It does not create new regulatory authority, incur significant costs, or alter existing law beyond naming a transportation segment.

Author (2)

Shelby Slawson

Helen Kerwin

Contact the Author

Rep. Shelby Slawson

Capitol Phone:

(512) 463-0628

Capitol Office:

EXT E2.506

E-Mail:

[email protected]

Visit Official Website

Fiscal Notes

According to the Legislative Budget Board (LBB), any costs associated with implementing the bill, primarily the design and installation of highway signage by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), are expected to be absorbed within the agency’s existing operational budget. This means that TxDOT will not require additional appropriations or funding authority to fulfill the responsibilities mandated by the bill.

The bill mandates the installation of markers at both ends and intermediate locations of the designated highway segment, which is a routine function within TxDOT’s scope. TxDOT typically has protocols and internal budgets for such commemorative signage under the Transportation Code Section 225.021(c), which often allows for the use of donations or discretionary funds to cover marker-related expenses.

Moreover, the bill poses no fiscal implications for local governments in Hood or Johnson Counties. It does not require cities or counties to contribute funding or resources to the signage effort, nor does it impose any regulatory or administrative burdens at the local level.

Overall, HB 2153 represents a symbolic designation with minimal economic effect, well within the routine responsibilities and fiscal capacity of the state’s transportation infrastructure system.

Related Legislation

SB 876 (Same As)

View Bill Text and Status