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HB 787

Relating to the restarting of a vehicle's battery while the vehicle is being transported on the Galveston-Port Bolivar ferry; authorizing a fee.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Terri Leo-Wilson and 2 co-sponsors

HB 787 authorizes Texas ferry operators to restart vehicle batteries during transport and charge a fee for this service.

Postponed
#environment--air(i0325) #hazardoussubstances(s0338) #transportation #texasdepartmentof(v8796) #transportation--miscellaneous(i0824) #vehicles&traffic--equipment(i0855) #water--navigation&ports(i0880)
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Bill Summary · HB 787

Legislative bill overview

HB 787 authorizes the Galveston-Port Bolivar ferry to restart vehicle batteries while vehicles are being transported on the ferry and establishes a fee structure for this service. The bill addresses a practical operational need for the ferry system to handle vehicles with dead or dying batteries during transit.

Why is this important

This bill enables ferry operators to provide roadside assistance-type service to stranded motorists, reducing delays and improving passenger experience. It also creates a new revenue stream for the ferry system while clarifying the legal authority for this specific maintenance activity on ferry vessels.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of services: The bill may raise questions about whether ferry operators should expand into other vehicle maintenance services or if this should remain limited to battery assistance
  • Liability and safety: Battery restart procedures on a moving ferry involve potential safety risks and liability questions if something goes wrong during the process
  • Fee reasonableness: The authorization to charge a fee lacks specific price caps, potentially allowing operators to set rates without public oversight or competitive pressure

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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