S.B. No. 2039 amends the Texas Transportation Code to clarify 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 new definitions and provisions that require vehicle operators to yield the right-of-way to both pedestrians and sidewalk users in various traffic situations, such as when facing green signals, red signals, or when emerging from alleys or driveways. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of traffic control signals for both pedestrians and sidewalk users, ensuring they are treated equally under the law.

The bill also establishes specific rules for sidewalk users at crosswalks and stop signs, including the requirement to stop before entering a crosswalk and yield to vehicles that pose an immediate hazard. It sets a prima facie speed limit of eight miles per hour for sidewalk users approaching crosswalks, indicating that speeds above this limit may be considered unreasonable. The changes in law will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will only apply 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 552, Transportation Code 544, Transportation Code 541, Transportation Code 545)
Senate Committee Report: Transportation Code 541.001, Transportation Code 544.007, Transportation Code 545.256, Transportation Code 552.001 (Transportation Code 552, Transportation Code 544, Transportation Code 541, Transportation Code 545)
Engrossed: Transportation Code 541.001, Transportation Code 544.007, Transportation Code 545.256, Transportation Code 552.001 (Transportation Code 552, Transportation Code 544, Transportation Code 541, Transportation Code 545)
House Committee Report: Transportation Code 541.001, Transportation Code 544.007, Transportation Code 545.256, Transportation Code 552.001 (Transportation Code 552, Transportation Code 544, Transportation Code 541, Transportation Code 545)
Enrolled: Transportation Code 541.001, Transportation Code 544.007, Transportation Code 545.256, Transportation Code 552.001 (Transportation Code 552, Transportation Code 544, Transportation Code 541, Transportation Code 545)