As the new year approaches, Texans should prepare for several legal changes taking effect Jan. 1, 2025, including updates to property taxes and vehicle safety inspections.
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Vehicle safety inspections eliminated for non-commercial vehicles
Texans driving non-commercial vehicles will no longer need annual safety inspections as part of the registration process, thanks to House Bill 3297.
However, emissions testing may still be required in densely populated counties, including Harris, Dallas, and Travis. Check your local county’s website to confirm requirements in your area.
Property Tax Relief Act brings new protections
With Senate Bill 2—the Property Tax Relief Act—Texans will see new limitations on the appraised value of non-homestead properties.
The “circuit breaker” provision, part of Article 4, aims to provide relief to property owners as state funding offsets more of the school finance burden.
This law reduces the financial responsibility of local taxpayers and providing additional support to recapture districts, which will now pay less into the system.
Texas Data Privacy and Security Act expands consumer protections
Under House Bill 4, Texans will gain more control over their personal data as businesses face new restrictions on the sale and processing of consumer information.
A specific provision allowing consumers to designate authorized agents for their data goes into effect on Jan. 1, 2025.
Updates to Judicial Procedures
House Bill 3474 introduces significant changes to Texas judicial practices. These updates include revisions to the service of process, administration of oaths, and overall court administration. Sections related to indigent defense and juvenile boards will officially take effect on Jan. 1, 2025.
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Criminal Code Revisions
House Bill 4504 modernizes provisions within the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure. While the changes are nonsubstantive—meaning they do not alter the meaning, intent, or legal effect of the law—they focus on reorganizing and clarifying the language of the statute. This ensures the code remains accessible and easy to understand for legal professionals and the public, without introducing new policies or changes to existing legal practices.
Changes to San Antonio River Authority governance
House Bill 1535 alters the terms of office for the San Antonio River Authority’s board members.
The Sunset Advisory Commission’s recommendations prompted this update, set to take effect Jan. 1, 2025.