Bill > SB1493

This bill modifies the Texas Transportation Code by adding a new provision about high-mounted stoplamps (brake lights) on vehicles, specifically addressing how these lights are evaluated for compliance with federal standards. Under the new language, a high-mounted stoplamp will be considered compliant with current federal standards (49 C.F.R. Section 571.108) if it varies in intensity four or fewer times and never completely turns off when the vehicle brakes for a period not exceeding two seconds. This technical amendment provides clarity on the acceptable performance of brake lights, potentially allowing for slight variations in light intensity during braking without compromising the lamp's overall regulatory compliance. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, and was passed by the Texas Legislature with significant majority support in both the Senate (30-0) and the House (138-3, with two members not voting).

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1493