S.B. No. 857 amends the Texas Transportation Code regarding the authorized removal of certain motor vehicles. The bill changes the heading of Section 545.305 from "Unlawfully Stopped Vehicle" to "Authorized Removal of Certain Motor Vehicles." Additionally, it expands the circumstances under which a peace officer or a license and weight inspector can remove a vehicle from a highway. New provisions include the ability to remove vehicles operated by individuals arrested for an alleged offense or those violating specific sections of the law related to driver's licenses and vehicle registration.

The bill outlines various scenarios that justify the removal of a vehicle, such as being unattended and obstructing traffic, unlawfully parked, reported as stolen, or disabled. It also specifies that if a vehicle is disabled and the owner is not present or unable to arrange for its removal, it can be towed. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, following its passage in both the Senate and House.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Transportation Code 545.305 (Transportation Code 545)
Senate Committee Report: Transportation Code 545.305 (Transportation Code 545)
Engrossed: Transportation Code 545.305 (Transportation Code 545)
House Committee Report: Transportation Code 545.305 (Transportation Code 545)
Enrolled: Transportation Code 545.305 (Transportation Code 545)