H.B. No. 4734 amends the Texas Tax Code and Transportation Code to facilitate the operation of certain vehicles during and after declared disasters. Specifically, it introduces a new provision allowing individuals who purchase dyed motor fuel and provide a signed statement with an end user number to operate vehicles on public highways using that fuel during a disaster period. This period begins with the declaration of a state of disaster and lasts until 30 days after the declaration ends. Additionally, the bill adds a new subchapter to the Transportation Code that allows for the issuance of special permits for oversize or overweight vehicles transporting agricultural commodities during or preceding a disaster.

The bill also updates existing sections of the Transportation Code by removing references to certain permit sections and adding a new permit section (623.451) specifically for vehicles delivering agricultural commodities during emergencies. The new provisions outline the conditions under which these permits can be issued, including during declared emergencies or major disasters, and establish rules for safe operation and compliance with weight limits. The changes take effect on September 1, 2025, and apply only to conduct occurring on or after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Tax Code 162.235, Transportation Code 621.102, Transportation Code 621.301 (Tax Code 162, Transportation Code 621)