Texas Senate Bill SB1938

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 3/5/25

Caption

Relating to the dedication of revenue received from certain oversize or overweight vehicle permits to the state highway fund.

Impact

This bill aims to secure and potentially expand the financial resources available for the state highway system. By ensuring that a substantial portion of the permit fees goes directly to the state highway fund, the bill highlights the state's commitment to maintaining and upgrading its road infrastructure, an essential aspect of public safety and economic growth. The allocation will help fund critical projects and ensure that the necessary resources are available for road maintenance and development.

Summary

Senate Bill 1938 proposes a legislative change concerning the revenue generated from permits issued for oversize or overweight vehicles. Under the current set-up, half of the fees collected from these permits has been allocated to the state highway fund, while the other half is distributed among the counties identified in the permit applications. The proposed bill seeks to formalize this distribution by reaffirming these existing regulations and ensuring that the revenue continues to be dedicated to necessary state highway improvements and maintenance.

Contention

While the revenue dedication outlined in SB1938 is not expected to face significant opposition, there may be concerns from local government entities regarding the distribution mechanism of the funds. Counties would still receive a portion of the fees, but the specifics of how these allocations would affect smaller counties or those with fewer oversize vehicle incidents could be a point of discussion during legislative sessions. Furthermore, the bill’s immediate effect clause, dependent on a two-thirds vote for passage, could lead to a heightened debate on its urgency among lawmakers.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Transportation Code

• Chapter 623. Permits For Oversize Or Overweight Vehicles
  • Section: 0171
  • Section: 324