H.B. No. 3966 introduces new regulations for owners or operators of commercial passenger bus services in Texas, specifically requiring them to notify local communities about the establishment of new terminals. The bill adds Chapter 121 to Subtitle C, Title 5 of the Business & Commerce Code, defining "commercial passenger bus service" and "terminal." It mandates that at least 90 days prior to the operation of a new terminal, the owner or operator must provide notice to the community through publications in local newspapers and, if applicable, in a language used in bilingual education programs at nearby schools.

The bill outlines specific requirements for the notification process, including the need for publication in a newspaper of general circulation in the municipality where the terminal will be located. Additionally, if the nearest elementary or middle school offers a bilingual education program, the notice must also be published in that language, unless no such publication exists or the publisher refuses to publish it. However, the notification requirements can be waived in cases of unforeseen emergencies, such as natural disasters. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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