If someone asks you how much you know about Texas state law, you may not know how to answer. While you may be aware of some obvious crimes, such as shoplifting or drunk driving, you may not be aware of the intricacies in the statutes. This is before the consideration that laws change frequently–in fact, there are plenty of new laws in place for 2019.
The new Texas laws cover a wide variety of topics, from car titles to the number of courts across the state. Keeping up with new laws will help you stay out of trouble. Here are some notable new laws in Texas.
Vehicle titles
If you are selling your car or need to update its title, you need to know about SB 2076. This law changes how the Texas DMV issues titles. Now, the DMV can only give out certified copies of vehicle titles, not originals. If you obtain an official copy from the DMV from now on, it makes any previous originals or copies invalid.
More courts
The population of Texas is increasing rapidly. One interesting impact of this boom in population is the caseload of courts. SB 1329 adds more courts to accommodate this issue. The law also changes the jurisdictions of some judges and courts. For example, associate judges are now able to handle family lawsuits. There are also some amendments added to the Code of Criminal Procedure.
Financial reporting for candidates and public officials
HB 501 is now in effect. It makes the financial disclosure process for candidates and public officers more rigorous. These individuals must report more financial activity to the Texas Ethics Commission. The financial activities that they must now report include business associations and contracts with government agencies.
Human trafficking
There are revisions to existing laws that require certain businesses to post notices in bathrooms about the National Human Trafficking Hotline. Refusing to comply with this law is a misdemeanor.
