Texas Legislature: Tracking Key Bills on Red Flag Laws, Pedestrian Safety, and School Bus Seat Belts

Red Flag Law Restrictions

• ⚖️ Senate Bill 1362 has received initial approval in the Texas Senate, aiming to ban government entities from enforcing extreme risk protective orders.
• 🚫 These orders, often called red flag laws, allow authorities to remove weapons from individuals deemed a threat, but supporters argue they lack due process.
• ⚠️ The proposed law would not apply to family violence protection orders or cases with filed criminal charges.

Pedestrian Safety Initiatives

• 🚶‍♀️ Senate Bill 1555 has passed the Texas Senate and will move to the House, establishing a grant program for cities and rail companies.
• 💰 The funding is intended for pedestrian safety projects, prompted by the tragic death of HISD student Sergio Gar Rodriguez.

School Bus Safety Improvements

• 🚌 Senate Bill 546, currently in the Transportation Committee, proposes requiring three-point seat belts on all school buses.
• 💡 While new buses are already equipped, this bill aims to extend the requirement to older buses to enhance student safety.