S.B. No. 72 amends the Business & Commerce Code to update the definitions and regulations surrounding private passenger vehicle rental agreements. Specifically, it changes the duration of rental agreements and the definition of rental companies from "30 days or less" to "180 days or less." This adjustment broadens the scope of rental agreements covered under the law, allowing for longer rental periods without changing the fundamental nature of the agreements.

Additionally, the bill introduces a new section that mandates rental companies to issue refunds for damage waiver charges if the renter returns the vehicle early or cancels the damage waiver before the anticipated return date, provided the vehicle was not damaged. This provision aims to enhance consumer protection by ensuring that renters are not unfairly charged for services they did not utilize. The changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will only apply to rental agreements entered into after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Commerce Code 91.001 (Commerce Code 91)
Senate Committee Report: Commerce Code 91.001 (Commerce Code 91)
Engrossed: Commerce Code 91.001 (Commerce Code 91)
House Committee Report: Commerce Code 91.001 (Commerce Code 91)
Enrolled: Commerce Code 91.001 (Commerce Code 91)