The bill amends the Transportation Code to enhance the procedures for toll collection notices and invoices issued by toll project entities. Notable changes include the requirement for invoices to be sent via certified mail rather than first-class mail, with the option for electronic delivery if the registered owner consents. Furthermore, the bill mandates that toll project entities must issue at least three written notices or invoices before pursuing further collection actions for unpaid tolls. It also introduces exceptions to liability for vehicle owners who have sold their vehicles prior to incurring tolls, provided they notify the relevant department and provide the new owner's details within a specified timeframe.
Additionally, the bill modifies Section 372.116 of the Transportation Code to allow for the new invoicing methods while overriding previous provisions in the Business & Commerce Code. The new regulations will take effect for tolls incurred on or after September 1, 2025, ensuring that any tolls incurred before this date will still be subject to the existing laws. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the toll collection process while ensuring that vehicle owners are properly informed of their responsibilities.
Statutes affected:
Introduced: Transportation Code 228.0545, Transportation Code 228.056, Transportation Code 284.0701, Transportation Code 284.0703, Transportation Code 370.177, Transportation Code 372.056, Transportation Code 372.057, Transportation Code 372.101, Transportation Code 372.104, Transportation Code 372.106, Transportation Code 372.110, Transportation Code 372.116 (Transportation Code 370, Transportation Code 228, Transportation Code 372, Transportation Code 284)