House Bill No. 2118 amends the Transportation Code to facilitate the issuance of oversize or overweight permits for vehicles transporting agricultural commodities during or preceding a disaster. The bill modifies existing sections by adding the new permit category under Section 623.451, which allows the Texas Department of Transportation to issue special permits for vehicles that can be easily dismantled or divided and are specifically used for delivering agricultural commodities. This provision is applicable during emergencies or major disasters declared by the President or the state, as well as in anticipation of events that may lead to such declarations.

Additionally, the bill outlines the conditions under which these permits can be issued, including the requirement for the Texas Division of Emergency Management to authorize permits preceding potential disaster events. It also establishes that permits issued under this section will expire 120 days after the disaster declaration or the division's authorization. The bill includes provisions for the department to impose conditions on permit holders to ensure safe operation and minimize roadway damage. The changes will take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Transportation Code 621.102, Transportation Code 621.301 (Transportation Code 621)
House Committee Report: Transportation Code 621.102, Transportation Code 621.301 (Transportation Code 621)
Engrossed: Transportation Code 621.102, Transportation Code 621.301 (Transportation Code 621)