TX HB5702

Creates the Llano Historic Railroad Authority as a special district to maintain, restore, and operate the Austin & Northwestern Railroad Historic District, a rail line between the City of Llano and Fairland listed in the National Register of Historic Places

Establishes a seven-member board of directors with two members appointed by Llano County Commissioners Court, two by the City of Llano, and three by the other directors, serving staggered three-year terms; the mayor and county judge serve as nonvoting directors

Authorizes the authority to operate tourist excursions, historic train tours, concessions, and educational programming, and to generate revenue through ticket sales, facility rentals, concessions, and retail sales of souvenirs

Prohibits the authority from imposing ad valorem taxes but allows it to accept grants, donations, and legislative appropriations, as well as local hotel occupancy tax revenue from taxing authorities in the county

Permits collaboration with rapid transit authorities for funding and technical assistance, and allows retail sale of alcoholic beverages at passenger rail stations with appropriate permits; effective September 1, 2025