TX
Texas Senate Bill SB2085

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB2085

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

Caption

Relating to prohibiting the denial of a driver's license renewal for failure to appear in court, failure to pay a fine or cost, or failure to satisfy a judgment.

Impact

The bill amends several sections of the Local Government Code and the Transportation Code, which indicates a significant shift in how the Department of Public Safety (DPS) interacts with license holders. By eliminating the ability to deny renewals based on noncompliance with court appearances and payments, it transforms the existing framework that related license renewal to legal judgments significantly. The proposed changes suggest a push to promote greater access to driving privileges regardless of an individual's legal or financial background.

Summary

Senate Bill 2085 seeks to prohibit the denial of a driver's license renewal based on an individual's failure to appear in court, pay fines, or satisfy a judgment. This legislative effort appears aimed at preventing the collateral consequences of such failures, which can disproportionately affect lower-income individuals and those who may struggle with transportation access. The bill reflects a move towards more equitable treatment of license holders and those interacting with the legal system.

Contention

Debates surrounding SB 2085 may arise regarding the implications of allowing individuals to renew driver's licenses despite outstanding legal obligations. Supporters may argue that maintaining access to driving is essential for personal and economic mobility, whereas opponents could express concerns about accountability and the potential for individuals to evade legal responsibilities. These discussions will likely center on finding a balance between facilitating access to necessary transportation and ensuring compliance with legal obligations.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Local Government Code

  • Chapter 1. General Provisions
    • Section: New Section

Transportation Code

  • Chapter 1. General Provisions
    • Section: New Section
  • Chapter 361. State Highway Turnpike Projects
    • Section: New Section

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB4074

Relating to prohibiting the denial of a driver's license renewal for failure to appear in court, failure to pay a fine or cost, or failure to satisfy a judgment.

TX SB2050

Relating to prohibiting the denial of a driver's license renewal for failure to appear in court, failure to pay a fine or cost, or failure to satisfy a judgment.

TX SB1281

Relating to prohibiting the denial of a driver's license renewal for failure to appear in court, failure to pay a fine or cost, or failure to satisfy a judgment.

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 HB3224

Relating to the status of the registration of a vehicle after a failure to establish financial responsibility.

TX HB303

Relating to a justice or municipal court's authority to order a defendant confined in jail for failure to pay a fine or cost or for contempt and to the authority of a municipality to enforce the collection of certain fines by imprisonment of the defendant.

TX HB291

Relating to occupational driver's licenses and to the renewal of driver's licenses.

TX SB187

Relating to failure to report assault, neglect, or omission of care in certain group homes; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB1220

Relating to failure to report assault, neglect, or omission of care in certain group homes; creating a criminal offense.

TX SB1551

Relating to the prosecution of the criminal offense of failure to identify; creating a criminal offense.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.