S.B. No. 2039 amends the Texas Transportation Code to clarify and expand the rights and responsibilities of "sidewalk users," which include individuals operating bicycles, motor-assisted scooters, electric personal assistive mobility devices, skateboards, roller skates, and similar devices on sidewalks. The bill introduces a new definition for "sidewalk user" and modifies existing traffic laws to ensure that both pedestrians and sidewalk users are granted the right-of-way in various traffic situations, such as when vehicles face green signals or are emerging from alleys or driveways.

Additionally, the bill establishes specific rules for sidewalk users at crosswalks and stop signs, emphasizing the need for them to yield to vehicles when necessary and to approach crosswalks at reasonable speeds. The changes aim to enhance safety for all sidewalk users while ensuring that they are recognized in traffic laws alongside traditional pedestrians. The law will take effect on September 1, 2025, and applies only to offenses committed after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Transportation Code 541.001, Transportation Code 544.007, Transportation Code 545.256, Transportation Code 552.001 (Transportation Code 544, Transportation Code 545, Transportation Code 552, Transportation Code 541)
Senate Committee Report: Transportation Code 541.001, Transportation Code 544.007, Transportation Code 545.256, Transportation Code 552.001 (Transportation Code 544, Transportation Code 545, Transportation Code 552, Transportation Code 541)
Engrossed: Transportation Code 541.001, Transportation Code 544.007, Transportation Code 545.256, Transportation Code 552.001 (Transportation Code 544, Transportation Code 545, Transportation Code 552, Transportation Code 541)
House Committee Report: Transportation Code 541.001, Transportation Code 544.007, Transportation Code 545.256, Transportation Code 552.001 (Transportation Code 544, Transportation Code 545, Transportation Code 552, Transportation Code 541)