Highlights 77th Texas Legislature - Senate

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REGULATORY
77 th Texas Legislature
The Long and Short of Cellular Towers - H.B. 1148
by Representative Cook
Senate Sponsor: Senator Armbrister
The demand for wireless services continues to grow, with providers constructing new cellular towers at
increasing rates. In urban areas, small cellular towers may be positioned on top of a building or other
structures, but in rural areas, towers must be taller and spaced farther apart
Requires a person who intends to construct a wireless communication facility to inform landowners of the
impending construction.
Sets forth filing requirements for the construction of a facility and any transfer of ownership or removal of
the facility.
Elected Officials and Exemptions for Securing Licenses - H.B. 1506
by Representative Yarbrough
Senate Sponsor: Senator Whitmire
Amends the Alcoholic Beverage Code to exempt elected officers of the state or federal government from
being required to file a security bond when the officer contests the facts stated in an application for a
license to distribute, manufacture, or sell beer at retail, or the applicant’s right to secure a license.
Commercial Enterprises in Residential Areas - H.B. 1514
by Representatives Junell and Seaman
Senate Sponsor: Senator Harris
Provides that a commercial enterprise is not required to change its current mode of operation if the area
within certain distances of the enterprise was not primarily used for residential purposes at the time the
enterprise was first established.
Restaurants and Alcoholic Beverages - H.B. 1614
by Representative Wise
Senate Sponsor: Senator Cain
Prior to the 77 th Legislature, the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission could cancel certain permits if the
permittee or licensee was not operating primarily as a food establishment determined by alcohol sales in
excess of 75 percent of gross receipts. Lowering the threshold from 75 percent to 50 percent may help
regulatory official better delineate bars from restaurants.
Decreases from 75 percent to 50 percent the percentage used to determine the issuance of a food and
beverage certificate.
Senate Research Center 247