The start of the new year brings several new laws in Texas, with changes affecting drivers, consumers, schools, and the judicial system.
Among the most notable updates, non-commercial drivers will no longer need an annual state vehicle safety inspection to renew their registration. Instead, drivers will pay a $7.50 fee during the renewal process. However, residents in more populated counties will still be required to pass emissions tests.
Consumers will see added protections under the updated Texas Data Privacy Act. The changes allow individuals to use settings to opt out of profiling and targeted sales based on personal data. Businesses that fail to comply with the new rules could face fines and other penalties.
In education, a new measure ensures schools can apply for state funding if property tax revenues drop, aiming to provide financial stability to districts.
To address growing caseloads, Denton County will gain a new judicial district, providing additional resources for the region’s legal system.