Connecticut 2016 Regular Session

Connecticut Senate Bill SB00256

Introduced
2/24/16  
Refer
2/24/16  
Report Pass
3/18/16  
Report Pass
3/18/16  
Refer
4/1/16  

Caption

An Act Establishing A Working Group To Study The Performance Of Certain Limited Department Of Motor Vehicles Functions By Town Clerks.

Impact

Should SB00256 be enacted, it could significantly alter the existing relationship between municipal governments and the DMV. The creation of a working group to explore this delegation symbolizes a move towards localizing certain governmental functions, which could lead to greater efficiency in the delivery of services. Local clerks would gain responsibilities that could remove some burdens from state operations, potentially enhancing service delivery to residents, especially in compliance with local needs and conditions.

Summary

SB00256, also known as the Act Establishing A Working Group To Study The Performance Of Certain Limited Department of Motor Vehicles Functions By Town Clerks, aims to assess the feasibility of delegating specific DMV functions to town clerks. The bill seeks to evaluate tasks such as the issuance and renewal of motor vehicle operator's licenses and registrations, currently performed by the Department of Motor Vehicles at their branch offices. By investigating this transition, the bill aims to potentially streamline these processes by utilizing town clerks, which may enhance local government engagement in motor vehicle-related services.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB00256 reflects a recognition of the potential benefits of decentralizing certain DMV functions, although it may also raise concerns over the capacity of town clerks to manage these tasks effectively. Supporters argue for the advantages of local governance and improved access to essential services, while skeptics may worry about the viability and resource implications at the town level. The discussions underscore a broader conversation about the appropriateness of task delegation between state and local authorities.

Contention

There are notable points of contention regarding the bill, particularly concerning the adequacy of town clerks to handle DMV functions. Critics may question whether local clerks possess the necessary training and resources to fulfill these new responsibilities, which could impact public confidence in the registration and licensing processes. Additionally, if the workload were to increase significantly, it could strain local resources and lead to inconsistent service levels across different towns, sparking debate over equity in service access.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CT HB05483

An Act Establishing And Transferring Various Functions To A Division Of Fire Services Administration Within The Department Of Emergency Services And Public Protection, Revising The Powers And Composition Of The Commission On Fire Prevention And Control And Establishing A Working Group.

CT SB00183

An Act Implementing The Recommendations Of The Department Of Motor Vehicles And Concerning Low-speed Vehicles, The Towing Of Occupied Vehicles, School Buses, Electric Commercial Vehicles, The Passenger Registration Of Pick-up Trucks And Removable Windshield Placards For Persons Who Are Blind And Persons With Disabilities.

CT SB00159

An Act Establishing A Task Force To Study The Feasibility Of Developing A Multimodal Transportation Center In The Towns Of Stonington And Groton.

CT HB05432

An Act Establishing A Working Group To Develop An Economic Development And Tourism Plan For The Greater Mystic Area Of The Towns Of Groton, New London And Stonington.

CT SB00147

An Act Establishing A Task Force To Study The Implementation Of Rental Savings Accounts.

CT SB00271

An Act Establishing A Task Force To Study The Implementation Of Rent Savings Accounts.

CT HB05176

An Act Establishing A Task Force To Study The Provision Of Emergency Treatment And Transportation To An Animal That Is Injured In The Performance Of Its Duties Under The Supervision Of A Peace Officer.

CT HB05233

An Act Establishing A Task Force To Study The Operations Of The Department Of Consumer Protection.

CT SB00254

An Act Concerning The Recommendations Of The Risk-limiting Audits Working Group.

CT SB00296

An Act Establishing A Task Force To Study The Enforcement Of Certain Provisions Of The General Statutes Concerning Roaming Livestock And Amending Certain Statutes Concerning Roaming Livestock.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.