Texas Enacts New Laws Starting January 1
As the new year approaches, Texas will implement a series of significant laws effective January 1. These legislative changes stem from both the regular and special sessions of 2023, with a focus on technology regulation, immigration enforcement, and tax adjustments.
New Texas Laws Taking Effect January 1
Immigration Cooperation Mandate
A vital piece of legislation is Senate Bill 8, which mandates that all Texas sheriffs collaborate with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Under this law, sheriffs must execute federal immigration warrants and engage in 287(g) agreements. These agreements empower local authorities to question individuals regarding their immigration status within jails.
App Store Accountability Act
The App Store Accountability Act imposes strict age verification measures on app stores like Google and Apple. This law requires parental consent before minors can download applications or make in-app purchases. The aim is to ensure children’s safety and privacy in the digital landscape.
Business Inventory Tax Exemption
House Bill 9 introduces a significant tax exemption for business owners. This law allows for up to $125,000 of a business’s inventory to be exempt from local taxes, a notable change from the previous threshold of $2,500. This exemption is expected to reduce local revenue by approximately $442 million by 2027 unless tax rates are adjusted accordingly.
Eviction Process Reforms
Senate Bill 38 accelerates the eviction process for landlords dealing with squatters. This law offers a more efficient mechanism for landlords, but critics argue it may disadvantage renters by shortening their response time to eviction notices.
Artificial Intelligence Regulation
House Bill 149 establishes a comprehensive framework for governing artificial intelligence in Texas. It prohibits the misuse of biometric data and mandates transparency regarding consumer interactions with AI systems. Moreover, it bans AI applications that could lead to self-harm or unlawful discrimination. The legislation also initiates a regulatory sandbox for testing AI innovations and forms the Texas Artificial Intelligence Council for policy guidance.
Overall Legislative Impact
- 31 bills from the regular session and 2 special session bills will go into effect.
- These laws reflect Texas’ evolving stance on technology and social issues.
- Key changes aim to align state policies with contemporary challenges.
Texas is set to embark on a transformative year with these new laws, impacting various sectors from technology to local governance. This legislative shift highlights Texas’ commitment to addressing modern issues through detailed regulatory frameworks.
