TITLE: Relating to certain memorial markers and designations on highways in this state.

SUMMARY: Relating to certain memorial markers and designations on highways in this state.

FULL TEXT:
AN ACT relating to certain memorial markers and designations on highways in this state. BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS: SECTION 1. Section 201.911, Transportation Code, is amended by amending Subsections (a) and (c) and adding Subsection (c-1) to read as follows: (a) In this section, "victim" means a person killed in a highway collision while operating or riding on a motorcycle. The term does not include a person who was under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance at the time of the collision. (c) A sign designed and posted under this section shall include: (1) a motorcyclist safety message selected from the options provided by commission rule under Subsection (c-1) [red cross];(2) the phrase "In Memory Of" and the name of one or more victims in accordance with the commission rule; and (3) the date of the collision that resulted in the victim's death. (c-1) The commission by rule shall develop motorcyclist safety messages that may be used on the memorial signs under this section. SECTION 2. Section 225.021, Transportation Code, is amended by amending Subsection (a) and adding Subsection (e) to read as follows: (a) Subject to Subsection (e), the [The] department shall repair and replace each marker required by this subchapter and maintain the grounds for the marker. (e) The department may not repair or replace a marker after the 10th anniversary of the effective date of the provision requiring the marker to be erected unless a grant or donation of funds is made to the department to cover the cost of the repair or replacement of the marker. This subsection applies only to a provision of this subchapter enacted after January 1, 2025, that requires the erection of a marker. SECTION 3. (a) Not later than December 1, 2025, the Texas Transportation Commission shall adopt the rules required by Section 201.911(c-1), Transportation Code, as added by this Act. (b) Notwithstanding Section 201.911, Transportation Code, as amended by this Act, the Texas Department of Transportation is not required to comply with the changes in law made by this Act before March 1, 2026. SECTION 4. This Act takes effect September 1, 2025.