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 no penalties will be imposed for using 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 makes several amendments to existing sections of the Transportation Code, including the addition of a new subchapter that outlines the conditions under which permits for transporting agricultural commodities can be issued. It specifies that these permits can only be granted following a disaster declaration and with authorization from the Department of Public Safety. Furthermore, the bill establishes rules for the issuance of permits, conditions for safe operation, and limitations on vehicle sizes and weights on interstate and defense highways. The changes in law 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 (Tax Code 162, Transportation Code 621)
House Committee Report: Tax Code 162.235, Transportation Code 621.102, Transportation Code 621.301 (Tax Code 162, Transportation Code 621)
Engrossed: Tax Code 162.235, Transportation Code 621.102, Transportation Code 621.301 (Tax Code 162, Transportation Code 621)