BILL ANALYSIS
By: Hilderbran
Culture, Recreation, & Tourism
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE
Texas currently has a significant amount of commercial RV Parks that are populated by transient tourists who stay in the facilities for a period of time ranging from overnight to several weeks. The average RV Park in Texas has approximately 75 RV sites, and the average customer spends $30.54 per day in fees and $120.00 per person per day outside of the RV Park. These tourists make a huge contribution to Texas tourism and the overall economy. However, if a guest becomes unruly, refuses to abide by the park rules, and is unwilling to voluntarily leave, law enforcement is uncertain of their ability to act under the Penal Code or consider this a civil issue for a court to resolve. Additionally, if a potential guest does not meet park criteria and is refused service, there is confusion regarding the ability of law enforcement to act under the Penal Code.
Including RV Park to the status will not guarantee law enforcement action, but it gives them some clarity and a clear authority to act upon, if they so desire. This will provide for a safer, more enjoyable visit to the RV Park for all customers.
RULEMAKING AUTHORITY
This bill does not allow rulemaking authority.
ANALYSIS
SECTION 1. Amends Section 30.05(a) of the Penal Code by making it gender neutral and expands the definition of the property to include a recreational vehicle park.
SECTION 2. Amends Section 30.05(b) of the Penal Code adds Subdivision (8) to include a definition for a recreational vehicle park.
SECTION 3. Sets forth and clarifies when an offense is affected by this Act.
SECTION 4. Effective date.
EFFECTIVE DATE
This Act takes effect September 1, 2007.