Sec. 224.034. HIGHWAY CLOSURES DURING CERTAIN PERIODS. (a) If a proposed improvement of the state highway system requires the closing of a highway, the department shall, before entering into a contract for the proposed improvement, coordinate the highway closure by communicating in person or by telephone call, e-mail, or other direct method of communication with public officials from municipalities affected by the closure to avoid any adverse economic impact on the municipalities during:

(1) periods of increased travel on the state highway system, including major state and federal holidays and school holidays; and

(2) other periods of high commercial activity in the state, including limited periods in which certain items are exempted from the sales tax imposed by Chapter 151, Tax Code.

(b) A contract for the proposed improvement of the state highway system that requires the closing of a highway as described by Subsection (a) must include a provision identifying the days on which the highway may not be closed.

(c) The department shall submit an annual report to the governor, the lieutenant governor, the speaker of the house of representatives, and each member of the legislature detailing all highway closures during periods listed in Subsection (a) and the estimated economic impact of those closures.

Added by Acts 2017, 85th Leg., R.S., Ch. 533 (S.B. 312), Sec. 25, eff. September 1, 2017.