S.B. No. 2039 amends the 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, the bill emphasizes the importance of safety by stipulating that sidewalk users must not enter crosswalks in a manner that would endanger themselves or others.

The legislation also updates the heading of Chapter 552 to include "other sidewalk users" and establishes specific rules for sidewalk users at crosswalks and stop signs. For instance, sidewalk users must stop before entering a crosswalk at a stop sign and yield to vehicles that pose an immediate hazard. The bill aims to enhance pedestrian safety and ensure that sidewalk users are afforded similar rights as pedestrians under traffic laws. The changes 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 544, Transportation Code 545, Transportation Code 541, Transportation Code 552)
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 541, Transportation Code 552)
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 541, Transportation Code 552)
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 541, Transportation Code 552)
Enrolled: Transportation Code 541.001, Transportation Code 544.007, Transportation Code 545.256, Transportation Code 552.001 (Transportation Code 544, Transportation Code 545, Transportation Code 541, Transportation Code 552)