The bill amends the Transportation Code to provide a defense against prosecution for driving with an expired license. Specifically, it allows individuals to present a driver's license that was either valid at the time of arrest or expired for no more than 60 days prior to the arrest, provided they can also show confirmation of a scheduled appointment to renew the license before the arrest date. This change aims to offer leniency for those who have made efforts to maintain their driving privileges.

Additionally, the bill modifies the timeframe in which a judge may dismiss a charge of driving with an expired license. The new provision extends the period for remedying the license issue from 20 working days to 60 working days or until the defendant's first court appearance, whichever is later. The changes will apply only to offenses committed on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Transportation Code 521.025, Transportation Code 521.026 (Transportation Code 521)