Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas House Bill HB566

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to required proof of lawful presence in the United States for issuance of a driver's license.

Impact

The bill will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will only apply to driver's licenses issued or renewed on or after January 1, 2026. If enacted, it will streamline the process for applicants who possess certain immigration documents by clearly delineating acceptable proofs for lawful presence. This change is expected to impact a significant number of immigrants, facilitating easier access to essential identification for those who meet the outlined criteria.

Summary

House Bill 566 aims to amend the Transportation Code in Texas concerning the requirements for proof of lawful presence in the United States for individuals applying for or renewing a driver's license. The proposed legislation specifies the types of documentation that the Texas Department of Public Safety must accept to verify an applicant's lawful status. This includes various forms of immigration documentation, employment authorization documents, and specific combinations of visas and passports.

Contention

While the bill aims to clarify the requirements for driver's license applications, it may raise concerns among various stakeholders. Supporters might argue that this proposed law ensures that individuals who are legally authorized to be in the country can obtain a driver's license, thereby promoting legitimate documentation practices. Conversely, opponents could view it as a potential barrier to access for certain groups, emphasizing issues of fairness and equity in how these requirements might affect marginalized communities and their ability to secure driving privileges.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Transportation Code

  • Chapter 521. Driver's Licenses And Certificates
    • Section: 1425

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB3175

Relating to required proof of lawful presence in the United States for issuance of a driver's license.

TX SB1362

Relating to hiring and licensing certain individuals lawfully present in the United States as peace officers.

TX HB4528

Relating to the requirement that a peace officer take possession of a person's driver's license following the person's failure to pass or refusal to consent to a test for intoxication.

TX HB3646

Relating to certain regulations regarding commercial driver's licenses.

TX SB101

Relating to the creation of a limited term driver's license; authorizing fees.

TX HB3645

Relating to requirements for the issuance of certain driver's licenses and commercial driver's licenses.

TX SB116

Relating to requiring a voter to present proof of identification.

TX HB4079

Relating to the requirements for issuance of export documentation by a customs broker for purposes of sales and use taxes.

TX SB478

Relating to the administration of the motorcycle operator training and safety program and requirements for the issuance of certain driver's licenses and commercial driver's licenses; requiring an occupational license; authorizing a fee.

TX HB102

Relating to the unlawful possession of a firearm by a person not lawfully present in the United States.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.