Texas will see several new laws come into effect on January 1, 2025, following the passage of legislation by the Texas Legislature and their signing into law by Governor Greg Abbott. These laws include the removal of annual vehicle inspections for non-commercial drivers, except for emissions testing in certain counties, as well as the requirement for Texans to pay a vehicle inspection fee that will go to the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. These changes are expected to save Texans money and eliminate what some have described as unnecessary and costly inspections.
In addition to changes to vehicle inspections, the Property Tax Relief Act, part of Texas Senate Bill 2, will take effect on January 1, with the aim of providing additional funding to schools in areas where property tax revenue has fallen below expenditure. This act will also provide circuit breaker limitations on increases to the appraised value of real property not covered by a homestead exemption. Governor Abbott signed this legislation into law in July 2023, providing $18 billion in property tax relief and compensating local authorities for revenue lost from property taxes.
The Texas Data Privacy and Security Act, also known as House Bill 4, will give customers more control over their personal data held by private businesses. While much of this act has already taken effect, a new provision allowing consumers to designate authorized agents to look after their data will come into effect on January 1. This legislation adds restrictions on the sale and processing of customer data by businesses, aiming to provide more privacy and security for Texans in an increasingly digital world.
House Bill 3474, passed in 2023, aims to reform the Texas state judicial branch by updating practices and procedures. Section 1.009 of this bill creates the new 477th Judicial District in Denton County, making it more accessible for residents of Denton County to access the justice system. These updates to the judicial branch are part of ongoing efforts to improve access to justice and ensure fair treatment for all Texans within the legal system.
Another law set to take effect on January 1 is the amendment to the San Antonio River Authority’s fiscal year, as outlined in Texas House Bill 1535. The district’s fiscal year will now end on September 30, following a recommendation by the Sunset Advisory Committee. This change is aimed at improving financial planning and reporting for the San Antonio River Authority, ensuring greater efficiency and transparency in their operations.
Overall, these new laws in Texas reflect ongoing efforts to improve various aspects of governance and public services in the state. From vehicle inspection reform to property tax relief, data privacy measures, judicial system updates, and fiscal year changes for government agencies, these laws aim to enhance efficiency, transparency, and accountability in Texas. As they come into effect on January 1, 2025, Texans can expect to see tangible impacts on their daily lives and interactions with various state services.
