Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Texas House Bill HB3758

Caption

Relating to the exemption of certain vehicles from vehicle towing regulations.

Impact

If enacted, the bill would change how various vehicle classifications are treated under towing regulations, potentially reducing the regulatory burden on agricultural and governmental vehicles. It aims to prevent misunderstandings and misapplications of towing law by outlining clear exemptions for specific vehicle use cases. This may assist farmers, ranchers, and governmental agencies in their operational activities involving transportation without the need for costly compliance with traditional towing regulations.

Summary

House Bill 3758 proposes amendments to the Occupations Code to exempt certain types of vehicles from existing vehicle towing regulations. Specifically, the bill redefines what constitutes a 'tow truck' by excluding several categories of vehicles, including those owned by governmental entities, vehicles used in farming, and vehicles engaged in non-commercial towing activities. The intent behind these amendments is to streamline towing operations and clarify the scope of regulation for the tow truck industry in Texas.

Contention

Despite the bill's intent to simplify regulations, potential points of contention could arise from the exempted categories. Concerns might be raised regarding the impact on safety and liability, particularly if exempted vehicles are involved in incidents during towing operations. Critics may argue that loosening towing regulations could lead to enforcement challenges and create loopholes that might be exploited, affecting public safety and trust in transportation standards.

Companion Bills

TX SB860

Same As Relating to the exclusion of certain car haulers from the definition of tow truck for purposes of certain laws regulating motor vehicle towing.

Previously Filed As

TX HB3599

Relating to an exemption from certain motor fuel taxes for, and registration fees for motor vehicles owned by, certain nonprofit food banks.

TX HB718

Relating to the issuance of certain tags, permits, and license plates authorizing the movement of vehicles and the transfer and renewal of certain license plates.

TX SB684

Relating to the inspection periods for certain motor vehicles; increasing certain fees.

TX HB4986

Relating to size limitations for certain vehicles transporting agricultural products and equipment.

TX HB3297

Relating to the elimination of regular mandatory vehicle safety inspections for noncommercial vehicles and the imposition of replacement fees.

TX HB4420

Relating to the elimination of regular mandatory vehicle safety inspections for noncommercial vehicles and the imposition of replacement fees.

TX SB1708

Relating to the elimination of regular mandatory vehicle safety inspections for noncommercial vehicles and the imposition of replacement fees.

TX HB654

Relating to the exemption of hospitals from the diesel fuel tax.

TX HB2763

Relating to an exemption from motor fuel taxes for certain fuel used by a rural transit district to provide public transportation.

TX SB916

Relating to vehicle monitoring technology installed on certain motor vehicles.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.