Texas House Bill HB2547

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 2/6/25

Caption

Relating to the prohibited manufacture and sale of motor vehicles equipped with remote vehicle disabling technology.

Impact

Should this bill pass, it would amend the Transportation Code to explicitly prevent manufacturers and dealers from associating their vehicles with such disabling technologies. This regulation is aimed at protecting consumer rights and ensuring that vehicle owners retain full control over their property. Furthermore, any license holder who violates this prohibition would face potential revocation of their licensing under the relevant sections of the Occupations Code, suggesting significant penalties for non-compliance.

Summary

House Bill 2547 seeks to prohibit the manufacture and sale of motor vehicles equipped with remote vehicle disabling technology. The bill defines remote vehicle disabling technology as any application or device that allows a person to disable the operation of a motor vehicle when activated or engaged. Exceptions are made for ignition interlock devices used in criminal procedures, thereby focusing primarily on technologies that could be misused by unauthorized individuals to immobilize vehicles remotely.

Contention

The implementation of HB 2547 may prompt discussions surrounding vehicle security and privacy. Opponents may argue that disabling technologies could enhance vehicle theft prevention and recovery by allowing sanctioned parties to disable stolen vehicles remotely, while supporters will likely emphasize the risks associated with unauthorized usage. This bill underscores a broader debate concerning the balance between technological advancement in vehicle security and the consumer's rights over their vehicles.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Transportation Code

• Chapter 547. Vehicle Equipment
  • Section: New Section

Occupations Code

• Chapter 2301. Sale Or Lease Of Motor Vehicles
  • Section: 651