TX SB159

Requires certain rapid transit authorities (created before 1980 with principal municipality population under 1.9 million) to establish mandatory training programs for public transportation vehicle operators on interacting with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including autism spectrum disorder

Training must cover identifying and communicating with individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities, and assisting them to safely enter and exit public transportation vehicles

Prohibits transit authorities and their contractors from allowing employees to operate public transportation vehicles unless they have completed the required training program

Transit authorities must establish the training program by March 1, 2026

Act takes effect September 1, 2025, with the prohibition on untrained operators taking effect September 1, 2026