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On January 1, 2026, the Texas Responsible Artificial Intelligence Governance Act or TRAIGA (HB 149) went into effect. This legislation establishes a statewide framework for AI deployment and development. It prohibits businesses from using AI to discriminate, infringe on Constitutional rights, or manipulate human behavior for profit gain. Dealerships are still responsible for any errors in credit decisions or contracts formed via AI, as well as any miscalculations on payments or checking disclosures also made by AI. In addition, businesses utilizing AI for financial decisions must maintain full transparency with the Texas government about their usage of a technology system.
Currently, AG Ken Paxton holds exclusive authority to enforce the TRIAGA act. Paxton has also launched investigations into car manufacturers regarding the mass collection and sale of driver data to third parties such as insurance companies.

While most would agree that the usage of AI in business should be rightfully regulated to protect not only the consumer but businesses themselves, the Federal Government has a different opinion altogether.
Federal policy currently seeks a deregulatory, unified national standard. This would create a “liability shield” which would undermine Texas’ ability to enforce protections such as the TRIAGA act. The Federal Government is threatening to withhold broadband state funding if a state attempts to restrict AI usage. Texas officials have expressed opposition to the federal approach, with some pointing to the 10^th Amendment to justify protecting state-level regulations.

Governor Greg Abbott has stated that if federal law eventually prohibits state regulation he will take the necessary steps to protect Texas’ interests without compromising federal funding.

Today over 45% of automotive dealerships utilize AI in some capacity. From virtual agents and receptionists to real time dynamic pricing and inventory adjustments, it is undeniable that AI is now an integral aspect of the industry. It is also a certainty the debate over its regulation will be an ongoing battle for many years to come.
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Currently there is no reported timeline for if or when gas prices are to decrease. If fuel prices remain high consumers are expected to hold on to their vehicles for much longer instead of opting for a new vehicle.

As a result, dealerships will most likely experience an increase in maintenance demands from consumers as their vehicles age. Increased operational costs from cross-country parts transit, as travel and shipping becomes more expensive, will likely have to be absorbed by dealerships with thinner margins. If the fuel price spike lasts longer than six months, and consumers continue to hold onto their cars, this may also create a shortage of used cars to the market.

“The Cost of Car Ownership Index soared to a record high in March, underscoring the squeeze so many Americans are facing financially right now,” said Heather Long, chief economist at Navy Federal Credit Union. “The 21% jump in gas prices in March was the largest factor leading to the new all-time high, but maintenance costs, repair costs, and tires were all up around 1% as well during the month.”

Now is the time to be proactive within your dealership to ensure your customers find the vehicle that best suits their energy efficient needs. Here are five tips for ensuring continued success during the gas crisis.

1. Stock vehicles with strong fuel economy ratings including hybrids, plug-in hybrids and fuel economy sedans and smaller SUVs.
2. Work with lenders to provide more attractive financing terms, longer loan options, or lease deals that make fuel-efficient vehicles more affordable.
3. Create marketing materials and in-store displays that compare long-term fuel and maintenance costs between fuel-efficient models.
4. Become the “green expert” about fuel efficiency in your area. Educate yourself on the best options for budget conscious Americans and build trust to attract new consumers.
5. Bundle maintenance packages, warranty options, and fuel-savings tips, along with other after-sale perks, to build financial trust in consumers and enhance the value of a new vehicle purchase.

By being proactive in how you pivot within your dealership during these difficult times you can successfully meet the rising demand for fuel-efficient vehicles in 2026.]]>https://www.txiada.org/default.asp?Display=634https://www.txiada.org/default.asp?Display=634TIADA Compliance63420260416101556