A new Texas law opens grant funding for physical security upgrades at auto service locations—but most owners don't know it exists.
Most auto service owners in Texas don't realize that state grant money is now available specifically for security equipment at their shops. It's buried in HB 201, a bill about financial crimes, but the provision that matters to you is real and actionable starting September 1, 2025.
HB 201 amends Section 2312.102(b) of the Texas Occupations Code to expand what the state's financial crimes intelligence center can fund. Previously, grant money from this program was limited to specific uses. Now, merchants—including auto service operators—can apply for grants to purchase or upgrade physical security equipment.
That equipment includes locks, cameras, and lighting systems. The law also opens funding for public outreach specifically about motor fuel theft, which is a direct concern for service stations and shops that sell fuel.
If you operate an auto service location in Texas—whether you're a full-service shop, a fuel retailer, or both—you're eligible. Small merchants are the intended beneficiaries. This isn't a loan; it's grant funding, meaning you don't repay it.
The provision recognizes that motor fuel theft and other crimes at service locations create real costs: stolen product, property damage, and the expense of upgrading security on your own dime. The state is now willing to help cover those upgrades.
Starting September 1, 2025, you can explore applying for grant funds to install or improve security infrastructure. Common uses would include:
This is particularly valuable if you've been putting off security upgrades because of budget constraints. Rather than financing the work yourself, you can apply for a grant that covers the cost.
The law also funds public outreach about motor fuel theft. If you've dealt with fuel theft at your location, this signals that the state recognizes it as a problem worth addressing—and is willing to invest in solutions.
The effective date is September 1, 2025. Before then, the financial crimes intelligence center will likely publish details on how to apply, eligibility requirements, and funding amounts. You'll want to monitor announcements from the Texas Comptroller's office, which oversees this program.
If you're considering security upgrades anyway, it's worth waiting until after September 1 to see what grant funding looks like. If you're not sure whether your location qualifies or what equipment the program covers, reaching out to your state representative's office or a local business association can help clarify.
For a detailed breakdown of HB 201 and how it applies to auto service operations, free resources are available through Texas trade associations and business development offices.