New Texas Laws That Took Effect on September 1

AUSTIN, TX — On September 1, several new laws went into effect in Texas, bringing changes that will impact various aspects of life across the state.

One of the most significant that when into effect is a portion of House Bill 18, also known as the Securing Children Online Through Parental Empowerment Act (SCOPE Act).

This law restricts minors’ access to social media platforms and includes measures to protect them from harmful content. However, a federal judge has temporarily blocked a portion of the bill. 

As of now, social media sites need a parent or guardian’s consent before a minor can create an account, and companies must give parents the ability to supervise a child's use of the website.

Other key laws that took effect on September 1 include:

• Senate Bill 1841: Provides survivors of dating violence with access to family violence centers and clearly defines dating violence as involving physical harm, fear for safety, or emotional abuse within a dating relationship.
• House Bill 1710: Mandates that the Texas Department of Criminal Justice notify a judge if a defendant has served 75 days.
• Senate Bill 241: Increases transparency in the pharmaceutical industry by requiring that companies producing insulin provide written notice if a generic version is not available.
• House Bill 4510: Alters the way agencies and public colleges report financial information to the government.

Looking ahead, House Bill 3291, signed into law in 2023, will eliminate state inspections for non-commercial vehicles in most Texas counties starting January 1, 2025. This change will lead to a $7.50 increase in vehicle registration fees to offset the loss of inspection fees. However, residents in certain counties will still need to undergo emissions testing.