Connecticut Senate Bill SB00826

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/7/19
• Refer: 2/7/19

Caption

An Act Concerning Services By The Department Of Motor Vehicles.

Impact

The bill will significantly impact residents' experiences with the DMV, particularly in Norwalk, where the accessibility to duplicate licenses and identity cards will improve due to the engagement of a contractor. Furthermore, it allows the contractor to charge a convenience fee, thus introducing a potential additional cost for residents seeking these services. This approach suggests a move towards privatization of some DMV operations, impacting how public services are traditionally delivered.

Summary

SB00826 is aimed at enhancing services provided by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in Connecticut. The bill mandates the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles to enter into an agreement with a qualified contractor to facilitate the issuance of duplicate licenses and identity cards in the town of Norwalk. This change is intended to streamline renewal processes and improve service delivery at the local level, addressing accessibility concerns for residents requiring these essential documents.

Contention

While the bill aims to enhance services, it may face some contention due to the introduction of convenience fees, which could raise concerns about affordability for low-income residents. Additionally, stakeholders may debate the efficacy of outsourcing DMV services to a contractor, considering the implications for job security within state-operated offices and the quality of service provided to the public. The reopening of a DMV branch office at Derby’s commuter rail station signifies an effort to increase convenience for commuters, yet will require evaluation on how effectively these changes meet public needs.