Capitol Access - Public Comments Due Monday
As you know, legislation passed during the session - HB 2131 by Geren - that established a frequent visitor pass for Capitol access - similar to what we have been advocating since they announced they were going to put the metal detectors in the Capitol.
As we discussed in our summer legislative update, we talked to DPS about the process for implementing the pass and they said they would develop a basic platform of rules and regulations that can be implemented in a similar fashion to the established CHL program.
The proposed DPS rules were officially published in the Texas Register last month and public comments are due by 5:00 p.m., Monday, October 10th. PLEASE CONSIDER E-MAILING IN A SHORT COMMENT ON THE RULES BY MONDAY AT 5:00 P.M.
You can link to the proposed DPS Capitol Access Rules here.
There is really not much to them that you would not know: the pass will be $100; it will expire at the end of every regular session year regardless of when you got it; it will require the same information and approval as the application for a concealed handgun license (CHL); and it will get you the same entry access as they have decided to allow CHL holders (which right now does not include the extension).
The following message points for you to consider are fairly simple, but the Commissioners need to hear your thoughts. Your e-mail should be sent before 5:00 p.m. on Monday, October 10th.
Sample comments...select any you like, modify as you want, use your own words:
Comments on proposed rulemaking regarding the Capitol Access Pass
37 TAC §§2.1 - 2.13
- Thank you for implementing the Capitol Access Pass rules.
- This is very important to those of us that enter the Capitol on a regular basis.
- It will expedite my entry and lessen the lines for those who have no need for the pass.
- It will take less of your troopers’ time in searching bags, purses, briefcases, etc.
- This expedited entry is especially critical when hearings and meetings are going on and we have to enter and reenter the Capitol several times in a single day.
- The CHL and Capitol Access Pass should allow entry through at least one of the extension entrances. (Give your best reason why entry through the extension is important.)
- Security concerns such as several persons following a Pass holder through the extension doors can easily be addressed by making the violation the responsibility of the Pass holder, with the penalty for violation being loss of Pass entry privileges.
E-Mail your comments to:
Mr. Steve Moninger, Office of Regulatory Counsel, Regulatory Services Division, Department of Public Safety, P.O. Box 4087, MSC-0246, Austin, Texas 78752-0246
Via E-MAIL: steve.moninger@dps.texas.gov
Comments are due by 5:00 p.m., Monday, October 10th. The rules are expected to be on the agenda of the Public Service Commission on Tuesday, October 18th.
If you have any questions let us know.
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