The bill, H.B. No. 4706, amends the 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. A new definition for "sidewalk user" is added, and various sections of the Transportation Code are updated to ensure that both pedestrians and sidewalk users are granted the right-of-way in specific traffic situations, such as when vehicles face green signals or are emerging from alleys or driveways.

Additionally, the bill introduces new provisions that require vehicle operators to yield to sidewalk users at crosswalks and stop signs, while also establishing guidelines for sidewalk users to ensure their safety when crossing roadways. The changes emphasize the importance of yielding the right-of-way to sidewalk users and outline the responsibilities of both vehicle operators and sidewalk users to prevent accidents. The law will take effect on September 1, 2025, and applies only to offenses committed on or after that date.

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