It's the beginning of September and that means new laws just went into effect in the state of Texas.
From gold coins to electronics repairs, several laws went into effect on Sept. 1 after being passed during last year's legislative session,while provisions from earlier laws are only now kicking in.
Here's a look at some of the unique laws that went into effect that Texans need to know about.
Texas' 'right to repair' law for consumer electronics
Bill: H.B. 2963
What it does: Requires electronics manufacturers to make certain parts, tools and repair manuals available to independent repair shops and consumers, giving people more options when fixing electronics instead of relying only on authorized repair providers.
The law covers consumer electronics sold on or after Sept. 1, in Texas that have a wholesale
price of at least $50.
However, the law does carve out exemptions for motor vehicles, farm equipment, heavy equipment, medical devices, video-game consoles, large home appliances and certain cybersecurity products.
New Texas regulations on the residential solar industry
Bill: S.B. 1036
What it does: The law took effect in September 2025 and regulates contracts that allow purchasers or lessees to cancel within five business days.
However, effective September 2026, the law requires salespeople for residential solar systems to register with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation and to work for a registered solar retailer. Additionally, retailers that employ or contract with salespeople must also be registered with the state.
Texas to start framework recognizing gold, silver as currency
Bill: H.B. 1056
What it does: The broader bill won't take effect until May 2027, but a provision allows the state to begin implementing the framework to accept certain gold and silver specie as legal tender in Texas.
Other Texas laws that went into effect on Sept. 1
There are 11 other laws that went into effect on Sept. 1, which include:
- H.B. 2 — Advances the next phase of Texas' school finance overhaul outlined in the bill.
- H.B. 8 (Second called session) — Advances the next phase of Texas' revamped school accountability system.
- H.B. 16 (Second called session) — Creates new state district courts in Brazoria, Colorado, Lavaca, Comal, Harris and Montgomery counties.
- H.B. 140 — Establishes a Child Protective Investigations Advisory Committee to provide oversight and public reporting for CPS investigations.
- H.B. 912 — Requires utilities outside ERCOT to conduct a cost-benefit analysis before regulators approve changes to how rooftop solar owners are compensated for excess electricity generation.
- H.B. 1240 — Standardizes the legal definition of the Texas-Mexico border region for use across state programs.
- H.B. 3307 — Requires arbitrators who hear certain property tax disputes to complete additional continuing education and retraining.
- H.B. 5424 — Establishes statewide limits on compensation that volunteer firefighters may receive.
- S.B. 568 — Advances the next phase of Texas’ transition to a new special education funding model.
- S.B. 785 — Requires most cities with zoning regulations to allow new HUD-code manufactured homes.
- S.B. 2155 — Begins state registration and regulation of veterinary medical facilities.
Mateo Rosiles is the Texas Connect reporter for USA TODAY and its regional papers in Texas. Got a news tip for him? Email him at mrosiles@usatodayco.com.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: New Texas laws take effect Sept. 1. See rules on electronic repairs, gold
