(a) The department is designated as the agency responsible for implementing a state safety oversight program that satisfies the requirements of 49 U.S.C. Section 5329(e).(b) Unless waived under 49 U.S.C. Section 5329(e), the department:(1) shall be financially and legally independent from any rail fixed guideway public transportation system under the oversight of the department; and(2) may not employ an individual who is also employed by a rail fixed guideway public transportation system under the oversight of the department.(c) The department may not directly provide public transportation services in an area with a rail fixed guideway public transportation system under the oversight of the department.(d) A public transportation entity may not provide funds to the department. Added by Acts 2017, 85th Leg., R.S., Ch. 434 (S.B. 1523), Sec. 4, eff. June 1, 2017.