It's no rumor. This is nothing new. Licencing requirements are a states rights issue. You need to check with the motor vehicle administration for your state. The majority of states do require that you obtain a non-CDL Class B (or equivilant) licence for vehicles over 26,001 pounds. In addition, if your rig has air brakes, you will probably need to get an air brake endorsement.
If I were you, I would go online, or visit the Texas MVA , and check requirements. That's the only way you will get the correct answer.