The Texas Department of Transportation (department) proposes amendments to §§21.142, 21.149, 21.152, 21.159, 21.163 – 21.165, 21.167, 21.172 – 21.176, 21.179, 21.180, 21.182, 21.190 – 21.192, 21.251, 21.253, and 21.255, concerning Regulation of Signs Along Interstate and Primary Highways, and §§21.402, 21.409, 21.412 – 21.414, 21.416, 21.417, 21.421 – 21.425, 21.428, 21.433 – 21.435, 21.449, and 21.457, concerning Control of Signs Along Rural Roads.
The department proposes changes to the Outdoor Advertising Program rules to implement new legislation and to address various issues to improve enforcement and efficiency. The changes also clarify existing rules to better inform the public with the requirements of applying for and maintaining an outdoor advertising sign.
Senate Bill No. 162, 83rd Legislature, Regular Session, 2013, resulted in new requirements to ease the transition of service members and their families to civilian life by recognizing professional occupational licenses issued by other jurisdictions. Senate Bill 162 requires state agencies that issue occupational licenses to provide an expedited licensure for military service members, military spouses, and military veterans within one year of separation from the military. Licenses issued under this law expire 12 months after being issued. By the end of the 12 months, individuals are expected to meet Texas' requirements for the appropriate occupational license.
Amendments or additions to existing rules largely formalize current department policies or clarify and simplify the rules to streamline the processes. Where applicable, the rules regarding signs along rural roads were modified to maintain consistency with the regulation of signs along interstate and primary highways.
TxDOT will conduct a public hearing at 9:00 a.m. on February 25, 2014, in the Ric Williamson Hearing Room, First Floor, Dewitt C. Greer State Highway Building, 125 East 11th Street, Austin. The earliest possible adoption date is March 16.
