The bill, H.B. No. 1772, proposes amendments to the Transportation Code regarding the operation of vehicles at railroad grade crossings, specifically increasing the penalties for violations. The current law stipulates that an offense is punishable by a fine ranging from $50 to $200. The new language introduces a higher penalty for certain violations, stating that if it is proven during the trial that the operator disregarded a warning given by a flagger, the fine will increase to a range of $100 to $400.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that the changes in law will only apply to offenses committed on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025. Offenses occurring before this date will be governed by the previous law, ensuring that individuals are not penalized under the new provisions retroactively.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Transportation Code 545.251 (Transportation Code 545)
House Committee Report: Transportation Code 545.251 (Transportation Code 545)