Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

Iowa Senate Bill SF497

Introduced
3/2/23  

Caption

A bill for an act relating to the issuance and suspension of motor vehicle registrations and certificates of title.(Formerly SSB 1171.)

Impact

The implications of SF497 are significant as it seeks to allow greater access to vehicle registration despite previous infractions. Specifically, while the registration may still be issued, it would be suspended immediately unless the individual provides necessary proof of financial responsibility or deposits the required security. This approach aims to balance the need for accountability in motor vehicle operation with the necessity of allowing individuals to have legal access to operate a vehicle.

Summary

Senate File 497 is a legislative proposal intended to modify procedures surrounding motor vehicle registration and the issuance of certificates of title in Iowa. The bill requires the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) and county treasurers to allow individuals to register vehicles, even if their registration would normally be denied due to prior suspensions or revocations. This change is a departure from current law, which mandates that registrations be denied under certain conditions, such as previous motor vehicle violations leading to a suspension.

Contention

Debate around the bill likely revolves around concerns about public safety and responsibility. Supporters may argue that enabling registration despite past infractions promotes second chances for individuals who may have faced difficulties in maintaining financial responsibility, while critics could contend that this creates risks on the road by allowing individuals who have not sufficiently addressed their past violations to operate vehicles legally. The discussions reflect deeper issues regarding the intersection of legal compliance, personal responsibility, and the right to mobility.

Companion Bills

IA HF593

Similar To A bill for an act relating to the issuance and suspension of motor vehicle registrations and certificates of title. (Formerly HSB 186.) Effective date: 07/01/2023.

IA SSB1171

Related A bill for an act relating to the issuance and suspension of motor vehicle registrations and certificates of title.(See SF 497.)

IA HSB186

Related A bill for an act relating to the issuance and suspension of motor vehicle registrations and certificates of title.(See HF 593.)

Previously Filed As

IA HF593

A bill for an act relating to the issuance and suspension of motor vehicle registrations and certificates of title. (Formerly HSB 186.) Effective date: 07/01/2023.

IA SSB1171

A bill for an act relating to the issuance and suspension of motor vehicle registrations and certificates of title.(See SF 497.)

IA HSB186

A bill for an act relating to the issuance and suspension of motor vehicle registrations and certificates of title.(See HF 593.)

IA HF2607

A bill for an act relating to vehicles, including the initial registration and issuance of certificate of title by any county treasurer and the definitions of terms for purposes of motor vehicle franchisers.(Formerly HSB 610; See HF 2678.)

IA SF2278

A bill for an act relating to information required for nonresidents who apply for vehicle registration and issuance of a certificate of title.(Formerly SSB 3105.)

IA HF2678

A bill for an act relating to vehicles, including the initial registration and issuance of certificate of title by certain county treasurers and the definitions of terms for purposes of motor vehicle franchisers, providing fees, and including effective date provisions. (Formerly HF 2607, HSB 610.)

IA SF2308

A bill for an act providing an alternative to filing a bond as a condition of registering and titling certain motor vehicles.(Formerly SSB 3035.)

IA HSB610

A bill for an act relating to vehicles, including the initial registration and issuance of certificate of title by any county treasurer and the definitions of terms for purposes of motor vehicle franchisers.(See HF 2607, HF 2678.)

IA SSB1091

A bill for an act relating to the issuance and display of one registration plate on motor vehicles.

IA SF380

A bill for an act regarding the registration and titling of motor vehicles, including by providing for initial registration and titling by any county treasurer and by modifying related fees and the amount of fees retained by county treasurers.(Formerly SSB 1053, SF 80.)

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.