The bill amends Section 545.157(a) of the Transportation Code to expand the list of vehicles to which specific passing regulations apply on highways. The updated language includes several new categories of vehicles, such as those operated by animal control officers for the removal of animals or carcasses from roadways, and vehicles operated by local authority employees for issuing parking citations. These vehicles must use visual signals that comply with established standards. Additionally, the bill removes the conjunction "and" from the previous list of vehicles, indicating a restructuring of the list format.
The bill aims to enhance road safety by ensuring that drivers are aware of and adhere to passing regulations concerning a broader range of stationary vehicles that may be present on highways. The changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, allowing time for public awareness and compliance with the new regulations.
Statutes affected: Introduced: Transportation Code 545.157 (Transportation Code 545)
House Committee Report: Transportation Code 545.157 (Transportation Code 545)