H.B. No. 3679 amends the Texas Tax Code and Transportation Code to facilitate the operation of certain vehicles during disaster situations. Specifically, it introduces a new provision allowing individuals who purchase dyed diesel fuel to operate their vehicles on public highways during declared disasters, provided they furnish a signed statement with an end user number issued by the comptroller. This provision is applicable only during periods when the Internal Revenue Service has specified that it will not impose penalties for the use of dyed diesel fuel on public highways. Additionally, the bill expands the types of permits available for vehicles transporting agricultural commodities during disasters, allowing for special permits for oversize or overweight vehicles that are used to deliver agricultural products to or from disaster-affected areas.

The bill also updates existing permit regulations by adding a new section that allows the issuance of permits for vehicles transporting agricultural commodities during disasters, detailing the conditions under which these permits can be granted. It specifies that permits can only be issued following a disaster declaration and with authorization from the Department of Public Safety. Furthermore, the bill outlines the conditions under which these permits may be subject to restrictions to ensure safe operation and minimize roadway damage. The changes made by this Act will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will only apply to conduct occurring on or after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Tax Code 162.235, Transportation Code 621.102, Transportation Code 621.301 (Transportation Code 621, Tax Code 162)
House Committee Report: Tax Code 162.235, Transportation Code 621.102, Transportation Code 621.301 (Transportation Code 621, Tax Code 162)
Engrossed: Tax Code 162.235, Transportation Code 621.102, Transportation Code 621.301 (Transportation Code 621, Tax Code 162)