The bill, S.B. No. 2129, amends Section 545.251(f) of the Transportation Code to increase the penalties for offenses related to the operation of vehicles at railroad grade crossings. Specifically, it establishes that an offense is punishable by a fine ranging from $50 to $200, but if it is proven that the operator disregarded a warning given by a flagger, the fine increases to a range of $100 to $400.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that the changes in law will only apply to offenses committed on or after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025. Offenses occurring before this date will be governed by the previous law, ensuring that the former penalties remain in effect for those incidents.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Transportation Code 545.251 (Transportation Code 545)