When the ink is dry on more than 1,100 pieces of new legislation this year, Texans can expect higher vehicle fees, tougher drunken driving laws and longer summer breaks for schoolchildren. When the ink is dry on more than 1,100 pieces of new legislation this year, Texans can expect higher vehicle fees, tougher drunken driving laws and longer summer breaks for schoolchildren. Other ways the average Texan will be affected will become clearer after the 140-day session comes to a close today. Rural residents might see speed limits rise to 75 miles per hour on some highways, where 170 more state troopers will be patrolling. Owners of manufactured homes who rent the land on which they live will have greater protection.
Students seeking higher education can depend on the state for more financial aid.
While Texans won't get the final bill for several months, it was neither the best of times nor the worst of times for consumers,'' said Reggie James, executive director of the Southwest Chapter of Consumers Union. Lawmakers vowed there would be no new taxes, but they managed to pass several measures raising various fees. The Legislature also approved increased fees on rental, lease or sale of heavy-duty diesel equipment from 0.5 percent to 1 percent. For consumers who are paying the bills, it doesn't really matter,'' James said. James noted that the Legislature rejected repeated attempts by Rep. Sylvester Turner, D-Houston, to force utility companies to refund millions in overcharges to consumers allowed under the electricity deregulation law.