New Traffic Laws Passed by the 77th Texas Legislature

Effective September 1, 2001


SB 577 - Restrictions for first six months after issuance of drivers license.

Drivers are prohibited from operating a motor vehicle after midnight and before 5 a.m. and having more than one passenger in the vehicle under 21 who is not a family member.

Full text of SB 577

HB 5 - New Open Container Law

Relating to the possession of an alcoholic beverage in the passenger area of a motor vehicle with the exception of a bus, taxi, limo, or the living quarters of a motorized home.

Full text of HB 5

HB 63 - Increase in Drivers License suspensions.

Increase in drivers license suspension period follng certain intoxication offenses.

Full text of HB 63

HB 299 - Speed limit increased to 75 MPH in some counties.

Speed limit may be raised to 75 on some state highways if the county has a population density of less than 10 persons per square mile and as determined by the commissioner.

Full text of HB 299

SB 113 - New Child Safety Laws

Addition of criminal penalties for not securing a child in a passenger safety system who isounger than 4 or less than 36 inches in height; for not securing children at least 4 but younger than 17 by a safety belt; and for installing an air bag in a vehicle that does not meet federal safety standards

Full text of SB 113

SB 399 - Riding in the back of a Pickup, Flatbed Truck, or Flatbed Trailer.

A person commits an offense by allowing a child younger than 18 to ride in the bed of an open-bed pickup truck, or open flatbed truck, or an open flatbed trailer (unless it is the only vehicle owned by the household).

Full text of SB 399


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