BILL ANALYSIS

Senate Research Center	H.B. 3135
89R11557 GP-D	By: Smithee (Zaffirini)
	Transportation
	5/5/2025
	Engrossed

AUTHOR'S / SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT

Current law authorizes specialty license plates for active firefighters but does not provide a similar option for those who are retired. As a result, former fire service personnel have no official way to display or be recognized for their service. H.B. 3135 would direct the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles to create a specialty license plate for retired firefighters, defined to include both former volunteer and certified fire protection personnel, and waive all issuance fees. This change would give retired firefighters a meaningful way to display their service and ensure they are honored alongside other public safety professionals. 

H.B. 3135 amends current law relating to the issuance of specialty license plates for retired firefighters.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

This bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency.

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1. Amends Subchapter F, Chapter 504, Transportation Code, by adding Section 504.5131, as follows:

Sec. 504.5131. RETIRED FIREFIGHTERS. (a) Defines "retired firefighter."

(b) Requires the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles to design and issue specialty license plates for retired firefighters.

(c) Provides that there is no fee for the issuance of the license plates.

SECTION 2. Effective date: September 1, 2025.