Bill > HB4555

This bill establishes comprehensive regulations for motor vehicle manufacturers regarding vehicle diagnostics, maintenance, and repair, focusing on protecting vehicle owners' rights and ensuring fair access to vehicle data and repair information. The bill defines key terms like "vehicle-generated data" and "critical repair information" and prohibits manufacturers from creating technological or legal barriers that would impede an owner's ability to diagnose, repair, or maintain their vehicle. Manufacturers are required to provide owners and authorized repair facilities unrestricted access to vehicle-generated data and critical repair information at a fair and reasonable cost, through a secure standardized access platform. The bill also restricts manufacturers from mandating or strongly recommending specific repair parts, tools, or equipment, with exceptions for recall or warranty repairs. The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles is tasked with administering and enforcing these regulations, including developing rules about data access and privacy. Manufacturers who violate these provisions can be subject to civil penalties of up to $10,000 per violation, with the attorney general empowered to bring enforcement actions. The law is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, and will apply to new, renewed, or modified contracts from that date forward, ultimately aiming to increase consumer choice and competition in motor vehicle repair.

Business and Industry

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB4555