Regular Session
Government Affairs & Regulatory Compliance Analysis
SB 546 repeals the previous exemption for school buses model year 2017 or older, mandating that all buses operated by or contracted for school districts be equipped with three-point (lap/shoulder) seat belts. While the physical installation deadline is delayed, the law triggers immediate auditing and reporting obligations for districts and contractors to qualify for budget exemptions and potential future state funding.
Sen. Jose Menendez·Senate Bill·Regular Session
Local School District Boards of Trustees • Texas Education Agency (TEA)
This legislation has regulatory implications for the following Texas businesses and organizations:
Notable regulatory updates (effective 2025-09-01). Consider how these changes may affect your operations.
Affected business types:
highSignificant operational investment may be required.
JD Key Consulting provides government affairs and regulatory strategy services. We help businesses navigate Texas agencies, understand legislative impacts, and advocate for their interests.
JD Key Consulting provides strategic guidance on Texas regulatory compliance and legislative impact for your business.
Key implementation requirements and action items for compliance with this legislation
JD Key Consulting specializes in Texas regulatory compliance strategy. Work directly with James Dickey—former Chairman of the Republican Party of Texas—to understand this bill's impact on your operations and develop an actionable compliance plan.
Schedule a ConsultationInformation presented is for general knowledge only and is provided without warranty, express or implied. Consult qualified government affairs professionals and legal counsel before making compliance decisions.
This bill's path through the Texas Legislature
Explore more bills from this author and on related topics
Common questions about SB546
SB 546 repeals the previous exemption for school buses model year 2017 or older, mandating that all buses operated by or contracted for school districts be equipped with three-point (lap/shoulder) seat belts. While the physical installation deadline is delayed, the law triggers immediate auditing and reporting obligations for districts and contractors to qualify for budget exemptions and potential future state funding.
SB546 was authored by Texas Senator Jose Menendez during the Regular Session.
SB546 was signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott on June 20, 2025.
SB546 is enforced by Local School District Boards of Trustees and Texas Education Agency (TEA).
The regulatory priority for SB546 is rated as "moderate". Businesses and organizations should review the legislation to understand potential impacts.
The cost impact of SB546 is estimated as "high". This may vary based on industry and implementation requirements.
SB546 addresses topics including education, education--school districts, minors, minors--health & safety and vehicles & traffic.
Key dates for SB546: Effective date is 2025-09-01. Rulemaking: Collect district data, calculate total financial assistance required for statewide compliance, and submit a summary report to the Governor and Legislature. (2027-01-01). Consult with legal counsel regarding applicability.
SB546 primarily affects healthcare providers and medical facilities. These businesses should review the legislation with their legal and compliance teams to understand potential impacts.
JD Key Consulting is an Austin, Texas-based government affairs firm led by James Dickey, former Chairman of the Republican Party of Texas. We specialize in Texas regulatory compliance and legislative strategy for data centers, energy, banking, and manufacturing.
