reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle I - Enforcement of Traffic Laws › Chapter 703 - Nonresident Violator Compact of 1977 › Article XI. Title › Section 703.004. Reports of Failure to Comply With Citation

Sec. 703.004.  REPORTS OF FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH CITATION.  (a)  The department shall report the failure of a motorist to comply with the terms of a citation.
(b)  The department shall establish procedures for making the reports required by Subsection (a).
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle I - Enforcement of Traffic Laws › Chapter 705 - Allowing Dangerous Driver to Borrow Motor Vehicle › Section 705.001. Allowing Dangerous Driver to Borrow Motor Vehicle; Offense

Sec. 705.001.  ALLOWING DANGEROUS DRIVER TO BORROW MOTOR VEHICLE;  OFFENSE.  (a)  A person commits an offense if the person:
(1)  knowingly permits another to operate a motor vehicle owned by the person;  and
(2)  knows that at the time permission is given the other person's license has been suspended as a result of a:
(A)  conviction of an offense under:
(i)  Section 49.04, Penal Code;
(ii)  Section 49.07, Penal Code, if the offense involved operation of a motor vehicle;  or
(iii)  Article 6701l-1, Revised Statutes, as that law existed before September 1, 1994;  or
(B)  failure to give a specimen under:
(i)  Chapter 724;  or
(ii)  Chapter 434, Acts of the 61st Legislature, Regular Session, 1969 (Article 6701l-5, Vernon's Texas Civil Statutes), as that law existed before September 1, 1995.
(b)  An offense under this section is a Class C misdemeanor.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle I - Enforcement of Traffic Laws › Chapter 706 - Denial of Renewal of License for Failure to Appear › Section 706.001. Definitions

Sec. 706.001.  DEFINITIONS.  In this chapter:
Text of subdivision effective until January 01, 2025
(1)  "Complaint" means a notice of an offense as described by Article 27.14(d) or 45.019, Code of Criminal Procedure.
Text of subdivision effective on January 01, 2025
(1)  "Complaint" means a notice of an offense as described by Article 27.14(d) or 45A.101, Code of Criminal Procedure.
(2)  "Department" means the Department of Public Safety.
(3)  "Driver's license" has the meaning assigned by Section 521.001.
(4)  "Highway or street" has the meaning assigned by Section 541.302.
(5)  "Motor vehicle" has the meaning assigned by Section 541.201.
(6)  "Operator" has the meaning assigned by Section 541.001.
(7)  "Political subdivision" means a municipality or county.
(8)  "Public place" has the meaning assigned by Section 1.07, Penal Code.
(9)  "Traffic law" means a statute or ordinance, a violation of which is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine in an amount not to exceed $1,000, that:
(A)  regulates an operator's conduct or condition while operating a motor vehicle on a highway or street or in a public place;
(B)  regulates the condition of a motor vehicle while it is being operated on a highway or street;
(C)  relates to the driver's license status of an operator while operating a motor vehicle on a highway or street;  or
(D)  relates to the registration status of a motor vehicle while it is being operated on a highway or street.
Added by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 30.161(a), eff. Sept. 1, 1997.  Amended by Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 62, Sec. 17.37(a), eff. Sept. 1, 1999;  Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 1545, Sec. 74, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.
Amended by:
Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 765 (H.B. 4504), Sec. 2.178, eff. January 1, 2025.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle I - Enforcement of Traffic Laws › Chapter 706 - Denial of Renewal of License for Failure to Appear › Section 706.002. Contract With Department

Sec. 706.002.  CONTRACT WITH DEPARTMENT.  (a)  A political subdivision may contract with the department to provide information necessary for the department to deny renewal of the driver's license of a person who fails to appear for a complaint or citation or fails to pay or satisfy a judgment ordering payment of a fine and cost in the manner ordered by the court in a matter involving any offense that a court has jurisdiction of under Chapter 4, Code of Criminal Procedure.
(b)  A contract under this section:
(1)  must be made in accordance with Chapter 791, Government Code;  and
(2)  is subject to the ability of the parties to provide or pay for the services required under the contract.
Added by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 30.161(a), eff. Sept. 1, 1997.  Amended by Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 62, Sec. 17.37(b), eff. Sept. 1, 1999;  Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 999, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999;  Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 1498, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 2001;  Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 346, Sec. 3, eff. June 18, 2003.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle I - Enforcement of Traffic Laws › Chapter 706 - Denial of Renewal of License for Failure to Appear › Section 706.003. Warning; Citation

Sec. 706.003.  WARNING;  CITATION.  (a)  If a political subdivision has contracted with the department, a peace officer authorized to issue a citation in the jurisdiction of the political subdivision shall issue a written warning to each person to whom the officer issues a citation for a violation of a traffic law in the jurisdiction of the political subdivision.
(b)  The warning under Subsection (a):
(1)  is in addition to any other warning required by law;
(2)  must state in substance that if the person fails to appear in court as provided by law for the prosecution of the offense or if the person fails to pay or satisfy a judgment ordering the payment of a fine and cost in the manner ordered by the court, the person may be denied renewal of the person's driver's license;  and
(3)  may be printed on the same instrument as the citation.
Added by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 30.161(a), eff. Sept. 1, 1997.  Amended by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 1498, Sec. 2, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle I - Enforcement of Traffic Laws › Chapter 706 - Denial of Renewal of License for Failure to Appear › Section 706.004. Denial of Renewal of Driver's License

Sec. 706.004.  DENIAL OF RENEWAL OF DRIVER'S LICENSE.  (a)  If a political subdivision has contracted with the department, on receiving the necessary information from the political subdivision the department may deny renewal of the person's driver's license for failure to appear based on a complaint or citation or failure to pay or satisfy a judgment ordering the payment of a fine and cost in the manner ordered by the court in a matter involving an offense described by Section 706.002(a).
(b)  The information must include:
(1)  the name, date of birth, and driver's license number of the person;
(2)  the nature and date of the alleged violation;
(3)  a statement that the person failed to appear as required by law or failed to satisfy a judgment ordering the payment of a fine and cost in the manner ordered by the court in a matter involving an offense described by Section 706.002(a);  and
(4)  any other information required by the department.
Added by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 30.161(a), eff. Sept. 1, 1997.  Amended by Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 62, Sec. 17.37(c), eff. Sept. 1, 1999;  Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 999, Sec. 2, eff. Sept. 1, 1999;  Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 1498, Sec. 3, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle I - Enforcement of Traffic Laws › Chapter 706 - Denial of Renewal of License for Failure to Appear › Section 706.005. Clearance Notice to Department

Sec. 706.005.  CLEARANCE NOTICE TO DEPARTMENT.  (a)  A political subdivision shall immediately notify the department that there is no cause to continue to deny renewal of a person's driver's license based on the person's previous failure to appear or failure to pay or satisfy a judgment ordering the payment of a fine and cost in the manner ordered by the court in a matter involving an offense described by Section 706.002(a), on payment of a reimbursement fee, or on a finding by the court that the person is indigent and not required to pay a reimbursement fee, as provided by Section 706.006 and:
(1)  the perfection of an appeal of the case for which the warrant of arrest was issued or judgment arose;
(2)  the dismissal of the charge for which the warrant of arrest was issued or judgment arose, other than a dismissal with prejudice by motion of the appropriate prosecuting attorney for lack of evidence;
(3)  the posting of bond or the giving of other security to reinstate the charge for which the warrant was issued;
(4)  the payment or discharge of the fine and cost owed on an outstanding judgment of the court; or
(5)  other suitable arrangement to satisfy the fine and cost within the court's discretion.
(b)  The department may not continue to deny the renewal of the person's driver's license under this chapter after the department receives notice:
(1)  under Subsection (a);
(2)  that the person was acquitted of the charge on which the person failed to appear;
(3)  that the charge on which the person failed to appear was dismissed with prejudice by motion of the appropriate prosecuting attorney for lack of evidence; or
(4)  from the political subdivision that the failure to appear report or court order to pay a fine or cost relating to the person:
(A)  was sent to the department in error; or
(B)  has been destroyed in accordance with the political subdivision's records retention policy.
Added by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 30.161(a), eff. Sept. 1, 1997.  Amended by Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 62, Sec. 17.37(c), eff. Sept. 1, 1999;  Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 999, Sec. 2, eff. Sept. 1, 1999;  Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 1498, Sec. 4, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
Amended by:
Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1171 (H.B. 2949), Sec. 4, eff. September 1, 2011.
Acts 2017, 85th Leg., R.S., Ch. 977 (H.B. 351), Sec. 28, eff. September 1, 2017.
Acts 2017, 85th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1127 (S.B. 1913), Sec. 25, eff. September 1, 2017.
Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1352 (S.B. 346), Sec. 4.39, eff. January 1, 2020.
Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 386 (H.B. 291), Sec. 9, eff. September 1, 2023.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle I - Enforcement of Traffic Laws › Chapter 706 - Denial of Renewal of License for Failure to Appear › Section 706.007. Disposition of Fees

Sec. 706.007.  DISPOSITION OF FEES.  (a)  An officer collecting a reimbursement fee under Section 706.006 shall remit the money to the municipal or county treasurer, as applicable.
(b)  Repealed by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1352 (S.B. 346), Section 1.19(14), eff. January 1, 2020.
(c)  Repealed by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1352 (S.B. 346), Section 1.19(14), eff. January 1, 2020.
(d)  The custodian of a municipal or county treasury shall  deposit the money collected under Section 706.006 to the credit of the general fund of the municipality or county for the purposes of Section 706.008.
(e)  Repealed by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1352 (S.B. 346), Section 1.19(14), eff. January 1, 2020.
Added by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 30.161(a), eff. Sept. 1, 1997.  Amended by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 209, Sec. 80(a), eff. Jan. 1, 2004.
Amended by:
Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1352 (S.B. 346), Sec. 1.19(14), eff. January 1, 2020.
Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1352 (S.B. 346), Sec. 2.79, eff. January 1, 2020.
Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1352 (S.B. 346), Sec. 2.80, eff. January 1, 2020.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle I - Enforcement of Traffic Laws › Chapter 706 - Denial of Renewal of License for Failure to Appear › Section 706.008. Contract With Private Vendor; Compensation

Sec. 706.008.  CONTRACT WITH PRIVATE VENDOR;  COMPENSATION.  (a)  The department may contract with a private vendor to implement this chapter.
(b)  The vendor performing the contract may be compensated by each political subdivision that has contracted with the department.
(c)  Except for an action based on a citation issued by a peace officer employed by the department, the vendor may not be compensated with state money.
Added by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 30.161(a), eff. Sept. 1, 1997.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle I - Enforcement of Traffic Laws › Chapter 706 - Denial of Renewal of License for Failure to Appear › Section 706.009. Vendor to Provide Customer Support Services

Sec. 706.009.  VENDOR TO PROVIDE CUSTOMER SUPPORT SERVICES.  (a)  A vendor must establish and maintain customer support services as directed by the department, including a toll-free telephone service line to answer and resolve questions from persons who are denied renewal of a driver's license under this chapter.
(b)  The vendor shall comply with terms, policies, and rules adopted by the department to administer this chapter.
Added by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 30.161(a), eff. Sept. 1, 1997.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle I - Enforcement of Traffic Laws › Chapter 706 - Denial of Renewal of License for Failure to Appear › Section 706.010. Use of Information Collected by Vendor

Sec. 706.010.  USE OF INFORMATION COLLECTED BY VENDOR.  Information collected under this chapter by a vendor may not be used by a person other than the department, the political subdivision, or a vendor as provided by this chapter.
Added by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 30.161(a), eff. Sept. 1, 1997.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle I - Enforcement of Traffic Laws › Chapter 706 - Denial of Renewal of License for Failure to Appear › Section 706.011. Liability of State or Political Subdivision

Sec. 706.011.  LIABILITY OF STATE OR POLITICAL SUBDIVISION.  (a)  An action for damages may not be brought against the state or a political subdivision based on an act or omission under this chapter, including the denial of renewal of a driver's license.
(b)  The state or a political subdivision may not be held liable in damages based on an act or omission under this chapter, including the denial of renewal of a driver's license.
Added by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 30.161(a), eff. Sept. 1, 1997.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle I - Enforcement of Traffic Laws › Chapter 706 - Denial of Renewal of License for Failure to Appear › Section 706.012. Rules

Sec. 706.012.  RULES.  The department may adopt rules to implement this chapter.
Added by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 30.161(a), eff. Sept. 1, 1997.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle I - Enforcement of Traffic Laws › Chapter 707 - Photographic Traffic Signal Enforcement System Prohibited › Section 707.001. Definitions

Sec. 707.001.  DEFINITIONS.  In this chapter:
(1)  "Local authority" has the meaning assigned by Section 541.002.
(2)  Repealed by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 372 (H.B. 1631), Sec. 6(3), eff. June 2, 2019.
(3)  "Photographic traffic signal enforcement system" means a system that:
(A)  consists of a camera system and vehicle sensor installed to exclusively work in conjunction with an electrically operated traffic-control signal; and
(B)  is capable of producing at least two recorded images that depict the license plate attached to the front or the rear of a motor vehicle that is not operated in compliance with the instructions of the traffic-control signal.
(4)  "Recorded image" means a photographic or digital image that depicts the front or the rear of a motor vehicle.
(5)  "Traffic-control signal" has the meaning assigned by Section 541.304.
Added by Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1149 (S.B. 1119), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2007.
Amended by:
Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 933 (H.B. 3097), Sec. 2T.01, eff. September 1, 2009.
Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 372 (H.B. 1631), Sec. 6(3), eff. June 2, 2019.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle I - Enforcement of Traffic Laws › Chapter 707 - Photographic Traffic Signal Enforcement System Prohibited › Section 707.020. Photographic Traffic Signal Enforcement System Prohibited

Sec. 707.020.  PHOTOGRAPHIC TRAFFIC SIGNAL ENFORCEMENT SYSTEM PROHIBITED.  (a)  Notwithstanding any other law, a local authority may not implement or operate a photographic traffic signal enforcement system with respect to a highway or street under the jurisdiction of the authority.
(b)  The attorney general shall enforce this section.
Added by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 372 (H.B. 1631), Sec. 2, eff. June 2, 2019.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle I - Enforcement of Traffic Laws › Chapter 707 - Photographic Traffic Signal Enforcement System Prohibited › Section 707.021. Use of Evidence From Photographic Traffic Signal Enforcement System Prohibited

Sec. 707.021.  USE OF EVIDENCE FROM PHOTOGRAPHIC TRAFFIC SIGNAL ENFORCEMENT SYSTEM PROHIBITED.  Notwithstanding any other law, a local authority may not issue a civil or criminal charge or citation for an offense or violation based on a recorded image produced by a photographic traffic signal enforcement system.
Added by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 372 (H.B. 1631), Sec. 2, eff. June 2, 2019.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle I - Enforcement of Traffic Laws › Chapter 709 - Miscellaneous Traffic Fines › Section 709.001. Traffic Fine for Conviction of Certain Intoxicated Driver Offenses

Sec. 709.001.  TRAFFIC FINE FOR CONVICTION OF CERTAIN INTOXICATED DRIVER OFFENSES.  (a)  In this section, "offense relating to the operating of a motor vehicle while intoxicated" has the meaning assigned by Section 49.09, Penal Code.
(b)  Except as provided by Subsection (c), in addition to the fine prescribed for the specific offense, a person who has been finally convicted of an offense relating to the operating of a motor vehicle while intoxicated shall pay a fine of:
(1)  $3,000 for the first conviction within a 36-month period;
(2)  $4,500 for a second or subsequent conviction within a 36-month period; and
(3)  $6,000 for a first or subsequent conviction if it is shown on the trial of the offense that an analysis of a specimen of the person's blood, breath, or urine showed an alcohol concentration level of 0.15 or more at the time the analysis was performed.
(c)  If the court having jurisdiction over an offense that is the basis for a fine imposed under this section makes a finding that the person is indigent, the court shall waive all fines and costs imposed on the person under this section.
(d)  A person must provide information to the court in which the person is convicted of the offense that is the basis for the fine to establish that the person is indigent.  The following documentation may be used as proof:
(1)  a copy of the person's most recent federal income tax return that shows that the person's income or the person's household income does not exceed 125 percent of the applicable income level established by the federal poverty guidelines;
(2)  a copy of the person's most recent statement of wages that shows that the person's income or the person's household income does not exceed 125 percent of the applicable income level established by the federal poverty guidelines; or
(3)  documentation from a federal agency, state agency, or school district that indicates that the person or, if the person is a dependent as defined by Section 152, Internal Revenue Code of 1986, the taxpayer claiming the person as a dependent, receives assistance from:
(A)  the food stamp program or the financial assistance program established under Chapter 31, Human Resources Code;
(B)  the federal special supplemental nutrition program for women, infants, and children authorized by 42 U.S.C. Section 1786;
(C)  the medical assistance program under Chapter 32, Human Resources Code;
(D)  the child health plan program under Chapter 62, Health and Safety Code; or
(E)  the national free or reduced-price lunch program established under 42 U.S.C. Section 1751 et seq.
Added by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1094 (H.B. 2048), Sec. 14, eff. September 1, 2019.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle I - Enforcement of Traffic Laws › Chapter 709 - Miscellaneous Traffic Fines › Section 709.002. Remittance of Traffic Fines Collected to Comptroller

Sec. 709.002.  REMITTANCE OF TRAFFIC FINES COLLECTED TO COMPTROLLER.  (a)  An officer collecting a traffic fine under Section 709.001 in a case in a justice, county, or district court shall keep separate records of the money collected and shall deposit the money in the county treasury.
(b)  Each calendar quarter, an officer collecting a traffic fine under Section 709.001 shall submit a report to the comptroller. The report must comply with Articles 103.005(c) and (d), Code of Criminal Procedure.
(c)  The custodian of money in a municipal or county treasury may deposit money collected under Section 709.001 in an interest-bearing account.  The custodian shall:
(1)  keep records of the amount of money collected under this section that is on deposit in the treasury; and
(2)  not later than the last day of the month following each calendar quarter, remit to the comptroller money collected under this section during the preceding quarter, as required by the comptroller.
(d)  A municipality or county may retain four percent of the money collected under Section 709.001 as a service fee for the collection if the county remits the funds to the comptroller within the period described by Subsection (c).  The municipality or county may retain any interest accrued on the money if the custodian of the money deposited in the treasury keeps records of the amount of money collected under this section that is on deposit in the treasury and remits the funds to the comptroller within the period prescribed in Subsection (c).
(e)  Of the money received by the comptroller under this section, the comptroller shall deposit:
(1)  80 percent to the credit of the undedicated portion of the general revenue fund, to be used only for criminal justice purposes; and
(2)  20 percent to the credit of the designated trauma facility and emergency medical services account under Section 780.003, Health and Safety Code, to be used only for the criminal justice purpose of funding designated trauma facilities, county and regional emergency medical services, and trauma care systems that provide trauma care and emergency medical services to victims of collisions resulting from traffic offenses.
(f)  Money collected under this section is subject to audit by the comptroller.  Money spent is subject to audit by the state auditor.
Added by Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1094 (H.B. 2048), Sec. 14, eff. September 1, 2019.
Amended by:
Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 709 (H.B. 2190), Sec. 101, eff. September 1, 2023.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle I - Enforcement of Traffic Laws › Chapter 720 - Miscellaneous Provisions › Section 720.001. Badge of Sheriff, Constable, or Deputy

Sec. 720.001.  BADGE OF SHERIFF, CONSTABLE, OR DEPUTY.  (a)  A sheriff, constable, or deputy sheriff or deputy constable may not arrest or accost a person for driving a motor vehicle on a highway in violation of a law relating to motor vehicles unless the sheriff, constable, or deputy displays a badge showing the sheriff's, constable's, or deputy's title.
(b)  A person commits an offense if the person violates this section.  An offense under this section is a misdemeanor punishable in the same manner as an offense under Section 86.011, Local Government Code.
(c)  An officer charged by law to take or prosecute a complaint under this section shall be removed from office if the officer refuses to do so.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle I - Enforcement of Traffic Laws › Chapter 720 - Miscellaneous Provisions › Section 720.002. Prohibition on Traffic-Offense Quotas

Sec. 720.002.  PROHIBITION ON TRAFFIC-OFFENSE QUOTAS.  (a)  A political subdivision or an agency of this state may not establish or maintain, formally or informally, a plan to evaluate, promote, compensate, or discipline:
(1)  a peace officer according to the officer's issuance of a predetermined or specified number of any type or combination of types of traffic citations;  or
(2)  a justice of the peace or a judge of a county court, statutory county court, municipal court, or municipal court of record according to the amount of money the justice or judge collects from persons convicted of a traffic offense.
(b)  A political subdivision or an agency of this state may not require or suggest to a peace officer, a justice of the peace, or a judge of a county court, statutory county court, municipal court, or municipal court of record:
(1)  that the peace officer is required or expected to issue a predetermined or specified number of any type or combination of types of traffic citations within a specified period;  or
(2)  that the justice or judge is required or expected to collect a predetermined amount of money from persons convicted of a traffic offense within a specified period.
(c)  Repealed by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 737, Sec. 1, eff. June 19, 2009.
(d)  This section does not prohibit a municipality from obtaining budgetary information from a municipal court or a municipal court of record, including an estimate of the amount of money the court anticipates will be collected in a budget year.
(e)  A violation of this section by an elected official is misconduct and a ground for removal from office.  A violation of this section by a person who is not an elected official is a ground for removal from the person's position.
(f)  In this section:
(1)  "Conviction" means the rendition of an order by a court imposing a punishment of incarceration or a fine.
(2)  "Traffic offense" means an offense under:
(A)  Chapter 521;  or
(B)  Subtitle C.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
Amended by:
Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 737 (S.B. 420), Sec. 1, eff. June 19, 2009.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle J - Miscellaneous Provisions › Chapter 721 - Inscription Required on State, Municipal, and County Motor Vehicles › Section 721.001. Definition

Sec. 721.001.  DEFINITION.  In this chapter, "state agency" means a department, bureau, board, commission, or office of state government.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle J - Miscellaneous Provisions › Chapter 721 - Inscription Required on State, Municipal, and County Motor Vehicles › Section 721.002. Inscription Required on State-Owned Motor Vehicles

Sec. 721.002.  INSCRIPTION REQUIRED ON STATE-OWNED MOTOR VEHICLES.  (a)  The official having control of a state-owned motor vehicle shall have printed on each side of the vehicle the word "Texas," followed by the title of the state agency having custody of the vehicle.
(b)  The inscription must be in a color sufficiently different from the body of the motor vehicle so that the lettering is plainly legible at a distance of not less than 100 feet.
(c)  The title of the state agency must be in letters not less than two inches high.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle J - Miscellaneous Provisions › Chapter 721 - Inscription Required on State, Municipal, and County Motor Vehicles › Section 721.003. Exemption From Inscription Requirement for Certain State-Owned Motor Vehicles

Sec. 721.003.  EXEMPTION FROM INSCRIPTION REQUIREMENT FOR CERTAIN STATE-OWNED MOTOR VEHICLES.  (a)  The governing bodies of the following state agencies or divisions by rule may exempt from the requirements of Section 721.002 a motor vehicle that is under the control and custody of the agency or division:
(1)  Texas Commission on Fire Protection;
(2)  Texas State Board of Pharmacy;
(3)  Department of State Health Services and Department of Aging and Disability Services;
(4)  Department of Public Safety of the State of Texas;
(5)  Texas Department of Criminal Justice;
(6)  Board of Pardons and Paroles;
(7)  Parks and Wildlife Department;
(8)  Railroad Commission of Texas;
(9)  Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission;
(10)  Texas Department of Banking;
(11)  Department of Savings and Mortgage Lending;
(12)  Texas Juvenile Justice Department;
(13)  Texas Commission on Environmental Quality;
(14)  Texas Lottery Commission;
(15)  the office of the attorney general;
(16)  Texas Department of Insurance;
(17)  Texas Military Department; and
(18)  an agency that receives an appropriation under an article of the General Appropriations Act that appropriates money to the legislature.
(b)  Repealed by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 81, Sec. 2, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
(c)  A rule adopted under this section must specify:
(1)  the purpose served by not printing on the motor vehicle the inscription required by Section 721.002;  and
(2)  the primary use of the motor vehicle.
(d)  A rule adopted under this section is not effective until the rule is filed with the secretary of state.
(e)  A rule adopted by the Texas Lottery Commission under Subsection (a) may exempt from the requirements of Section 721.002 only a motor vehicle used exclusively for surveillance purposes.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.  Amended by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 81, Sec. 1, 2, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
Amended by:
Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 921 (H.B. 3167), Sec. 6.066, eff. September 1, 2007.
Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1308 (S.B. 909), Sec. 48, eff. June 15, 2007.
Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 734 (H.B. 1549), Sec. 147, eff. September 1, 2015.
Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 303 (S.B. 795), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2021.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle J - Miscellaneous Provisions › Chapter 721 - Inscription Required on State, Municipal, and County Motor Vehicles › Section 721.004. Inscription Required on Municipal and County-Owned Motor Vehicles and Heavy Equipment

Sec. 721.004.  INSCRIPTION REQUIRED ON MUNICIPAL AND COUNTY-OWNED MOTOR VEHICLES AND HEAVY EQUIPMENT.  (a)  The office having control of a motor vehicle or piece of heavy equipment owned by a municipality or county shall have printed on each side of the vehicle or equipment the name of the municipality or county, followed by the title of the department or office having custody of the vehicle or equipment.
(b)  The inscription must be in a color sufficiently different from the body of the vehicle or equipment so that the lettering is plainly legible.
(c)  The title of the department or office must be in letters plainly legible at a distance of not less than 100 feet.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle J - Miscellaneous Provisions › Chapter 721 - Inscription Required on State, Municipal, and County Motor Vehicles › Section 721.006. Operation of Vehicle in Violation of Chapter; Offense

Sec. 721.006.  OPERATION OF VEHICLE IN VIOLATION OF CHAPTER;  OFFENSE.  (a)  A person commits an offense if the person:
(1)  operates on a municipal street or on a highway a motor vehicle or piece of equipment that does not have the inscription required by this chapter;  or
(2)  uses a motor vehicle that is exempt by rule under Section 721.003, and that use is not expressly specified by the rule.
(b)  An offense under this section is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not less than $25 or more than $100.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle J - Miscellaneous Provisions › Chapter 722 - Automobile Club Services › Section 722.001. Short Title

Sec. 722.001.  SHORT TITLE.  This chapter may be cited as the Automobile Club Services Act.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle J - Miscellaneous Provisions › Chapter 722 - Automobile Club Services › Section 722.002. Definitions

Sec. 722.002.  DEFINITIONS.  In this chapter:
(1)  "Agent" means a salesman or other individual appointed by an automobile club to sell memberships in the club to the public.
(2)  "Automobile club" means a person who, for consideration, promises the membership assistance in matters relating to travel, and to the operation, use, or maintenance of a motor vehicle, by supplying services such as services related to:
(A)  community traffic safety;
(B)  travel and touring;
(C)  theft prevention or rewards;
(D)  maps;
(E)  towing;
(F)  emergency road assistance;
(G)  bail bonds and legal fee reimbursement in the defense of traffic offenses;  and
(H)  purchase of accidental injury and death benefits insurance coverage from an authorized insurance company.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle J - Miscellaneous Provisions › Chapter 722 - Automobile Club Services › Section 722.003. Certificate of Authority Required

Sec. 722.003.  CERTIFICATE OF AUTHORITY REQUIRED.  (a)  A person may not engage in business as an automobile club unless the person meets the requirements of this chapter and obtains an automobile club certificate of authority from the secretary of state.
(b)  A person may not solicit or aid in the solicitation of another person to purchase a service contract or membership issued by an automobile club that does not hold an automobile club certificate of authority.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle J - Miscellaneous Provisions › Chapter 722 - Automobile Club Services › Section 722.004. Application

Sec. 722.004.  APPLICATION.  (a)  Each applicant for an automobile club certificate of authority must file an application with the secretary of state in the form and manner prescribed by the secretary.  The secretary shall adopt the forms necessary for an applicant to comply with this chapter and shall furnish those forms on request to an applicant for a certificate of authority.
(b)  An application must be executed under oath by the club president or other principal club officer and must be accompanied by:
(1)  the first year's annual fee for the certificate of authority;
(2)  a certificate by the secretary of state stating that the applicant has complied with the corporation laws of this state, if the applicant is a corporation;
(3)  a list of each person who holds an ownership interest in the applicant and each officer of the applicant, if the applicant is not incorporated;
(4)  a copy of any operating agreement or management agreement affecting the club and a list of each party to the agreement if the applicant is not incorporated;  and
(5)  proof of security in a manner that complies with Section 722.005.
(c)  The secretary of state shall issue the automobile club certificate of authority or deny the application not later than the 15th day after the day the secretary receives the application, certificate, or security.  Failure to issue the certificate of authority within the prescribed time entitles the applicant to a refund of all money and security deposited with the application.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle J - Miscellaneous Provisions › Chapter 722 - Automobile Club Services › Section 722.005. Security Requirements

Sec. 722.005.  SECURITY REQUIREMENTS.  (a)  An applicant for an automobile club certificate of authority may provide the security required for that certificate by depositing with the state or pledging in the form prescribed by the secretary of state:
(1)  $25,000 in securities approved by the secretary;
(2)  $25,000 in cash;  or
(3)  a $25,000 bond in the form prescribed by the secretary that is:
(A)  payable to the state;
(B)  executed by a corporate surety licensed to do business in this state;  and
(C)  conditioned on the faithful performance of the automobile club in selling or providing club services and the payment of any fines or penalties levied against the club for failure to comply with this chapter.
(b)  The aggregate liability of the surety for all breaches of the bond conditions and for payment of all fines and penalties may not exceed the amount of the bond.
(c)  The required security shall be maintained as long as the automobile club has any liability or obligation in this state.  On showing to the satisfaction of the secretary of state that the club has ceased to do business and that all liabilities and obligations of the club have been satisfied, the secretary may return the security to the club or deliver the security in accordance with a court order.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle J - Miscellaneous Provisions › Chapter 722 - Automobile Club Services › Section 722.006. Renewal

Sec. 722.006.  RENEWAL.  (a)  An automobile club certificate of authority expires annually on August 31.  The certificate may be renewed by filing a renewal application in the manner prescribed by the secretary of state and paying the annual fee.
(b)  The secretary of state may adopt forms for the renewal application.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle J - Miscellaneous Provisions › Chapter 722 - Automobile Club Services › Section 722.007. Annual Fee

Sec. 722.007.  ANNUAL FEE.  The annual fee for an automobile club certificate of authority is $150.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle J - Miscellaneous Provisions › Chapter 722 - Automobile Club Services › Section 722.008. Certificate Revocation or Suspension

Sec. 722.008.  CERTIFICATE REVOCATION OR SUSPENSION.  (a)  After a public hearing, the secretary of state shall revoke or suspend an automobile club's certificate of authority if the secretary determines, for good cause shown, that:
(1)  the club:
(A)  has violated this chapter;
(B)  is not acting as an automobile club;
(C)  is insolvent or has assets valued at less than its liabilities;
(D)  has refused to submit to an examination by the secretary;  or
(E)  is transacting business in a fraudulent manner;  or
(2)  an owner, officer, or manager of the club is not of good moral character.
(b)  The secretary of state shall give public notice of the suspension or revocation in the manner the secretary considers appropriate.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle J - Miscellaneous Provisions › Chapter 722 - Automobile Club Services › Section 722.009. Service Contract; Membership Information

Sec. 722.009.  SERVICE CONTRACT;  MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION.  (a)  Each automobile club operating under this chapter shall furnish to the membership a service contract or membership card that includes the following information:
(1)  the club's name;
(2)  the street address of the club's home office and of its usual place of business in this state;  and
(3)  a description of the services or benefits to which the members are entitled.
(b)  For purposes of this chapter, the completed application for an automobile club certificate of authority and the description of services listed under Subsection (a) constitute the service contract.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle J - Miscellaneous Provisions › Chapter 722 - Automobile Club Services › Section 722.010. Filing of Information

Sec. 722.010.  FILING OF INFORMATION.  (a)  Each automobile club shall file a certified copy of its service contract with the secretary of state.
(b)  If an automobile club provides participation in a group accidental injury or death policy, the club shall file with the service contract a copy of the certificate of participation.
(c)  An automobile club shall file with the secretary of state any change to the service contract.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle J - Miscellaneous Provisions › Chapter 722 - Automobile Club Services › Section 722.011. Agent Registration

Sec. 722.011.  AGENT REGISTRATION.  (a)  An automobile club that operates in this state under an automobile club certificate of authority shall file with the secretary of state a notice of appointment of each agent not later than the 30th day after the date on which that agent is employed by the club.
(b)  The notice of appointment must be in the form prescribed by the secretary of state and must contain:
(1)  the name, address, age, sex, and social security number of the agent;  and
(2)  proof satisfactory to the secretary that the agent is of good moral character.
(c)  Registration under this section is valid for one year from the date of the initial registration and may be renewed on each anniversary of that date.  The annual registration fee is $10.
(d)  Each automobile club shall notify the secretary of state of the termination of an agent's employment by the club not later than the 30th day after the date of the termination.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle J - Miscellaneous Provisions › Chapter 722 - Automobile Club Services › Section 722.012. Advertising Restrictions

Sec. 722.012.  ADVERTISING RESTRICTIONS.  An automobile club operating under this chapter may not:
(1)  refer to its certificate of authority or to approval by the secretary of state in any advertising, contract, or membership card;  or
(2)  advertise or describe its services in a manner that would lead the public to believe that the services include automobile insurance.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle J - Miscellaneous Provisions › Chapter 722 - Automobile Club Services › Section 722.014. Criminal Penalty

Sec. 722.014.  CRIMINAL PENALTY.  (a)  A person commits an offense if the person violates this chapter.
(b)  An offense under this section is a misdemeanor punishable by:
(1)  a fine not to exceed $500;  and
(2)  confinement in the county jail for a term not to exceed six months.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle J - Miscellaneous Provisions › Chapter 723 - Texas Traffic Safety Act › Subchapter A. General Provisions › Section 723.001. Short Title

Sec. 723.001.  SHORT TITLE.  This chapter may be cited as the Texas Traffic Safety Act.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle J - Miscellaneous Provisions › Chapter 723 - Texas Traffic Safety Act › Subchapter A. General Provisions › Section 723.002. Governmental Purpose

Sec. 723.002.  GOVERNMENTAL PURPOSE.  The establishment, development, and maintenance of a traffic safety program is a vital governmental purpose and function of the state and its legal and political subdivisions.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle J - Miscellaneous Provisions › Chapter 723 - Texas Traffic Safety Act › Subchapter A. General Provisions › Section 723.003. Traffic Safety Fund Account

Sec. 723.003.  TRAFFIC SAFETY FUND ACCOUNT.  (a)  The traffic safety fund account is an account in the general revenue fund.  Money received from any source to implement this chapter shall be:
(1)  deposited to the credit of the traffic safety fund account;  and
(2)  spent with other state money spent to implement this chapter in the manner in which the other state money is spent.
(b)  A payment from the traffic safety fund account shall be made in compliance with this chapter and rules adopted by the governor.
Added by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 30.162, eff. Sept. 1, 1997.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle J - Miscellaneous Provisions › Chapter 723 - Texas Traffic Safety Act › Subchapter B. Preparation and Administration of Traffic Safety Program › Section 723.011. Governor's Responsibility for Program

Sec. 723.011.  GOVERNOR'S RESPONSIBILITY FOR PROGRAM.  (a)  The governor shall:
(1)  prepare and administer a statewide traffic safety program designed to reduce traffic collisions and the death, injury, and property damage that result from traffic collisions;
(2)  adopt rules for the administration of this chapter, including rules, procedures, and policy statements governing grants-in-aid and contractual relations;
(3)  receive on the state's behalf for the implementation of this chapter money made available by the United States under federal law; and
(4)  allocate money appropriated by the legislature in the General Appropriations Act to implement this chapter.
(b)  In preparing and administering the traffic safety program, the governor may:
(1)  cooperate with the United States or a legal or political subdivision of the state in research designed to aid in traffic safety;
(2)  accept federal money available for research relating to traffic safety;  and
(3)  employ personnel necessary to administer this chapter.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
Amended by:
Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 709 (H.B. 2190), Sec. 102, eff. September 1, 2023.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle J - Miscellaneous Provisions › Chapter 723 - Texas Traffic Safety Act › Subchapter B. Preparation and Administration of Traffic Safety Program › Section 723.012. Traffic Safety Program

Sec. 723.012.  TRAFFIC SAFETY PROGRAM.  The statewide traffic safety program must include:
(1)  a driver education and training program administered by the governor through appropriate agencies that complies with Section 723.013;
(2)  plans for improving:
(A)  driver licensing;
(B)  collision records;
(C)  vehicle inspection, registration, and titling;
(D)  traffic engineering;
(E)  personnel;
(F)  police traffic supervision;
(G)  traffic courts;
(H)  highway design; and
(I)  uniform traffic laws; and
(3)  plans for local traffic safety programs by legal and political subdivisions of this state that may be implemented if the programs:
(A)  are approved by the governor; and
(B)  conform with uniform standards adopted under the Highway Safety Act of 1966 (23 U.S.C. Sec. 401 et seq.).
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
Amended by:
Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 709 (H.B. 2190), Sec. 103, eff. September 1, 2023.