Bill > HB971

This bill modifies Texas transportation law by allowing vehicles to temporarily use high occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes to pass slower-moving vehicles, regardless of the number of occupants in the vehicle. Specifically, drivers will be permitted to enter and exit HOV lanes at designated points for the sole purpose of passing a vehicle that is traveling below the posted speed limit. This means that even drivers in single-occupant vehicles can briefly use HOV lanes to overtake slower traffic, as long as they use the proper entry and exit points. The new provision will take effect on September 1, 2025, and is aimed at improving traffic flow and reducing congestion by providing more flexibility for drivers when encountering slower vehicles on multi-lane highways. The bill adds Section 545.429 to the Texas Transportation Code to codify this new rule.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB971