State lawmakers have introduced a wave of legislation aimed at reforming toll road practices across Texas, with a particular focus on Harris County’s use of toll revenues. If passed, these bills could reshape how toll funds are allocated and even determine when toll roads should cease charging drivers.
Harris County Toll Revenue Under Scrutiny
A pair of companion bills filed by Sen. Paul Bettencourt (R-Houston) and Rep. Mano DeAyala (R-Houston) seek to impose stricter regulations on how toll revenues are used in counties with populations exceeding four million residents—essentially singling out Harris County.
Since 2019, Harris County has significantly increased its transfers from the Harris County Toll Road Authority (HCTRA) to the county’s general fund, with 75% of toll revenues being reallocated. Critics argue that these funds, meant for road infrastructure, are being redirected with little oversight.
Under House Bill 5177 and Senate Bill 2722, Harris County would be required to undergo an annual audit of its toll revenue expenditures. Additionally, the legislation would mandate that:
30% of surplus toll funds reimburse municipalities that provide law enforcement and emergency services to HCTRA’s roads.
The remaining 70% be used strictly for county-owned roads.
95% of surplus funds allocated to commissioners be distributed based on the number of road miles in each precinct—preventing equal distribution regardless of road mileage, a practice currently in place.
DeAyala emphasized that the legislation aims to enhance transparency and ensure toll revenue is used appropriately. “This pro-taxpayer, pro-mobility legislation ensures surplus dollars go towards maintaining county roads and avoiding higher property taxes,” he said.
Statewide Efforts to End Perpetual Tolls
Another major reform effort comes from Sen. Angela Paxton (R-Allen) and Rep. Matt Shaheen (R-Plano), who have introduced SB 2324 and HB 2323, which propose ending tolls on roads once their construction costs and debts are fully paid off.
Many toll roads in Texas remain tolled indefinitely due to “system financing,” where excess revenue from one toll road is used to fund new projects elsewhere. Critics argue this model leads to never-ending tolls.
Terri Hall, Executive Director of Texans Uniting for Reform and Freedom, supports the bill, noting that perpetual tolling contradicts the Texas Constitution’s prohibition on “perpetuities.”
“Tolls were never meant to be forever,” Hall said. “Drivers across Texas overwhelmingly support taking them down once the debt is paid.”
The bill would also prevent toll authorities from extending agreements that keep tolls in place longer than necessary. If passed, the legislation could significantly reduce the financial burden on Texas drivers.
Toll Billing and Fee Reforms
Additional toll road reforms are being proposed in SB 137 by Sen. Bob Hall (R-Rockwall) and Sen. Mayes Middleton (R-Galveston), along with HB 1333 by Rep. Brian Harrison (R-Waxahachie). This bill seeks to overhaul toll billing practices, including:
Requiring toll agencies to send invoices electronically or by mail with clear due dates and fee structures.
Capping administrative fees at $6 per invoice and $48 per year (down from the current $200 cap).
Changing failure to pay a toll from a criminal misdemeanor to a civil offense, reducing penalties to $25 instead of the current $250 fine.
A separate bill, SB 756, aims to remove the ability of toll authorities to block vehicle registrations due to unpaid tolls.
Expanding Consumer Rights to Repair
Beyond toll roads, Texas lawmakers are also pushing for consumer-friendly reforms in the auto repair industry. HB 2963, filed by Rep. Giovanni Capriglione (R-Keller), and its Senate companion SB 2428, would require manufacturers to provide independent repair shops and owners with the necessary tools and documentation to fix electronic components in vehicles and agricultural equipment.
Farmers and small business owners have long argued that manufacturer-imposed repair restrictions make it expensive and difficult to maintain their equipment. The bill aims to lower repair costs and give consumers more options.
Opponents, however, cite concerns about security risks and the potential for substandard repairs. Proponents believe a balanced approach can address these issues while ensuring Texans have the right to fix their own property.
What’s Next?
