Texas Transportation Code 548.6035 – Fraudulent Emissions Inspection of Motor Vehicle
Current as of: 2024 | Check for updates
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(a) A person commits an offense if, in connection with a required emissions inspection of a motor vehicle, the person knowingly:
(1) submits information to the department’s inspection database stating that a vehicle has passed the applicable inspections or issues a passing vehicle inspection report, if:
(A) the vehicle does not meet the emissions requirements established by the department; or
(B) the person has not inspected the vehicle;
(2) manipulates an emissions test result;
(3) uses or causes to be used emissions data from another motor vehicle as a substitute for the motor vehicle being inspected; or
(4) bypasses or circumvents a fuel cap test.
(b) A first offense under Subsections (a)(1)-(3) is a Class B misdemeanor.
Attorney's Note
Under the Texas Codes, punishments for crimes depend on the classification. In the case of this section:| Class | Prison | Fine |
|---|---|---|
| State jail felony | between 180 days and 2 years | up to $10,000 |
| Class A misdemeanor | up to 1 year | up to $4,000 |
| Class B misdemeanor | up to 180 days | up to $2,000 |
| Class C misdemeanor | up to $500 |
Terms Used In Texas Transportation Code 548.6035
- Person: includes corporation, organization, government or governmental subdivision or agency, business trust, estate, trust, partnership, association, and any other legal entity. See Texas Government Code 311.005
- Trial: A hearing that takes place when the defendant pleads "not guilty" and witnesses are required to come to court to give evidence.
(c) Except as provided by Subsection (d), a second or subsequent offense under Subsections (a)(1)-(3) is a Class A misdemeanor.
(d) If it is found on trial of an offense under Subsections (a)(1)-(3) that the person committing the offense acted with the intent to defraud or harm another person, the offense is a state jail felony.
(e) An offense under Subsection (a)(4) is a Class C misdemeanor.
(f) It is a defense to prosecution under Subsection (a)(4) that the analyzer used by the person developed a functional problem during the emissions inspection of the fuel cap that prevented the person from properly conducting the fuel cap test portion of the emissions inspection.