Bill > SB305

This bill amends Section 545.157 of the Texas Transportation Code to expand the list of vehicles that have special protections when stationary on a highway. The existing law already covered emergency vehicles, tow trucks, highway maintenance vehicles, utility service vehicles, and waste transportation vehicles. The bill adds two new categories of protected vehicles: (1) vehicles operated by animal control officers or authorized individuals who are removing animal carcasses from roadways, using specific visual signals, and (2) vehicles operated by local authority employees issuing parking citations, also using compliant visual signals. These additions mean that drivers must take extra precautions when approaching these newly specified vehicles, likely needing to slow down or change lanes to ensure the safety of the vehicle's occupants. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, and was passed by the Texas Senate with 27 votes in favor and 3 against, and by the House with 127 votes in favor, 20 against, and two members present but not voting.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB305