The bill, H.B. No. 2898, amends the Transportation Code to establish new requirements for the erection of meteorological evaluation towers in Texas. It redefines the specifications for these towers, stating they must not exceed 12 feet in diameter at the base and must include accessory facilities for various meteorological instruments. The bill introduces a new requirement that individuals intending to erect such towers must notify the relevant department at least 30 days prior to construction, providing detailed information about the tower's location, ownership, and other pertinent details.

Additionally, the bill mandates that the owner or operator must inform the department of any changes to the initial notice and requires the department to notify nearby federal radar or military installations about the tower's erection within 30 days of receiving the notice. The department is also tasked with adopting rules to implement these provisions, ensuring compliance and oversight of meteorological evaluation towers. The changes aim to enhance safety and coordination with existing radar and military operations in the vicinity of these structures. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Transportation Code 21.071 (Transportation Code 21)